Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, has received a report assessing the performance and value of the Zipline medical drone delivery system in Ghana from the Zipline Technical Task Force. The report, tasked by the Minister, follows public concerns and the closure of three Zipline distribution centres.
Opening the session, the Minister explained that the meeting was to ensure all stakeholders have a common understanding of the issues surrounding Zipline’s operations, costs, and contractual obligations.
He noted that while it was initially stated that the service would be funded through Corporate Ghana, the final agreement required the government to pay US$88,000 per centre each month for day-and-night services.
The Task Force’s presentation highlighted Zip-line’s Operational effectiveness, Value for money (economics and cost analysis), Procurement integrity and contract sustainability, Alternative logistical models used globally, and Policy options for the future delivery trends.
The team also compared health indicators before and during Zipline operations and examined the sustainability of the model.
The Minister assured that the Ministry will study the findings and recommendations and continue engagements with Zipline and all partners as it works toward a more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective health supply chain for the country.
