Ecorys supports UNICEF Ghana in delivering analytical evidence for sustainable health and nutrition financing

Ecorys has successfully delivered two complementary analytical studies for UNICEF Ghana, a Fiscal Space Analysis (FSA) and a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), providing robust evidence to inform policy and investment decisions in the primary health care (PHC) and nutrition sectors.

Ghana’s health system is at a critical juncture. While the Government’s current health service package includes both curative and preventive interventions, service delivery remains largely focused on treatment-based care. Preventive services, including vaccinations and nutrition interventions, have historically relied heavily on external financing from Ghana’s development partners, much of which is expected to decline in the coming years.

In this context, Ecorys was commissioned by UNICEF to undertake an in-depth and forward-looking assessment of both financing options and investment priorities in PHC and nutrition.

The Fiscal Space Analysis assessed the Government of Ghana’s capacity to expand and sustain public spending in PHC and nutrition. It identified concrete opportunities to increase fiscal space, including improving efficiency, strengthening revenue mobilisation, and enhancing budget allocation processes. The analysis provides actionable recommendations to support long-term fiscal sustainability.

Complementing this, the Cost-Benefit Analysis evaluated 14 preventive health and nutrition interventions, evaluating their economic and health impacts. The findings highlight the strong value for money of preventive care, demonstrating that sustained investment in these interventions can generate significant returns, particularly in a context of declining external support.

Together, the analysis provides a compelling evidence base to support the transition towards a more prevention-oriented health system in Ghana. The analysis underscores the importance of strategic resource prioritisation and increased domestic investment to ensure continued access to essential services while maintaining fiscal sustainability.

This assignment reflects Ecorys’ expertise in health economics, fiscal policy, public finance management, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and our continued commitment to supporting partners in strengthening resilient and sustainable health systems.

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Cost-Benefit Analysis of Preventive Care Services in Ghana

ECORYS CBA UNICEF Ghana