Addressing the Annual General and Scientific Conference of the Ghanaian Society of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons, the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, said sustainable specialist healthcare cannot be achieved by building hospitals and training doctors alone, but by ensuring that patients can afford the lifesaving treatment available to them.

She noted that financial hardship remains one of the greatest barriers preventing many Ghanaians living with chronic non-communicable diseases from accessing specialised cardiovascular and thoracic care.

She added that the Trust Fund was established by John Dramani Mahama to reduce that burden and promote equitable access to quality healthcare.

Ms Darko-Opoku revealed that during the Trust Fund’s pilot phase, 50 patients living with chronic diseases received financial support, with 13 undergoing life-saving cardiovascular and thoracic surgeries at the National Cardiothoracic Centre.

She commended Ghana’s cardiothoracic surgeons for their expertise, saying their work transformed the Fund’s financial support into renewed hope and improved health outcomes for patients.

“Together, we gave thirteen Ghanaians another chance at life,” she said.

Beyond direct patient support, Ms Darko-Opoku announced that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund is partnering with the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons to train more medical specialists to strengthen Ghana’s specialist healthcare workforce.

She also disclosed that the Fund is financing the establishment of three state-of-the-art cardiac catheterisation laboratories at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Tamale Teaching Hospital to improve diagnosis, facilitate minimally invasive cardiac procedures and reduce delays in treatment.

According to her, these investments form part of a long-term strategy to build a resilient cardiovascular healthcare system capable of addressing Ghana’s growing burden of heart disease.

Ms Darko-Opoku called on healthcare professionals, hospitals, development partners and the private sector to strengthen collaboration with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund to ensure that specialist healthcare becomes both sustainable and accessible to every Ghanaian.

“The true measure of a sustainable cardiovascular and thoracic surgery programme is whether the ordinary Ghanaian who needs specialised care can access that care at the right time, in the right place and without financial hardship becoming a barrier to survival,” she emphasised.

The conference, held under the theme, “Capacity Building for Sustainable Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Programmes in Ghana,” brought together leading surgeons, healthcare administrators and policymakers to discuss the future of specialist cardiac care in the country.

Ms Darko-Opoku reiterated that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund remains committed to partnering with the Ghanaian Society of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons and other stakeholders to build a healthcare system where excellence in specialist care is matched by affordable access for every Ghanaian.

The commitment was made during a courtesy call by the Administrator of the GMTF, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, on the National House of Chiefs in Kumasi, where she sought the support of traditional leaders in advancing the Fund’s mandate.

She described traditional rulers as trusted custodians of their communities whose influence would be vital in raising awareness of the Fund and encouraging eligible patients to access its support.

Ms Darko-Opoku explained that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund was established by John Dramani Mahama to reduce the financial burden on patients suffering from chronic non-communicable diseases, including cancer, kidney disease requiring dialysis, heart conditions and stroke.

According to her, the partnership with the National House of Chiefs would also help ease the pressure on traditional leaders, who are frequently called upon to provide financial assistance for expensive medical treatment in their communities.

“The Ghana Medical Trust Fund provides a lasting national solution that complements the generosity of our chiefs. It means they will no longer have to shoulder this burden alone because there is now a national mechanism dedicated to supporting their people,” she said.

She noted that although government had established the Fund, its long-term success would depend on partnerships with institutions that command public trust.

Ms Darko-Opoku appealed to chiefs across the country to educate their communities about the Fund, encourage eligible patients to apply for assistance and help address misinformation surrounding the initiative.

She also highlighted progress made so far, including nationwide health facility needs assessments, the development of a digital application and claims platform, beneficiary support systems and plans to establish cardiac catheterisation laboratories at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and Tamale Teaching Hospital.

Responding on behalf of the traditional rulers, the President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, assured the delegation of the House’s unwavering commitment to the success of the Trust Fund.

He pledged that the National House of Chiefs would actively promote the initiative across the country and educate communities about the relief it offers families struggling with the high cost of specialised healthcare.

Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II also urged Regional and Traditional Houses of Chiefs to organise similar engagements in their respective jurisdictions and serve as ambassadors for the Fund.

The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, described the endorsement as a major milestone that would boost public confidence in the Fund.

He said the influence of chiefs would encourage more people to embrace the initiative and ensure that financial hardship does not prevent Ghanaians from accessing essential healthcare.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, Hafez Adam Taher thanked the National House of Chiefs for their support and willingness to serve as advocates for the Fund.

He said the partnership between government and traditional authorities would play a critical role in helping the GMTF achieve its objective of restoring hope, saving lives and ensuring that no Ghanaian is denied treatment due to financial constraints.

The Bono East Regional Minister, Francis Owusu Antwi, also accompanied the delegation during the visit.

The endorsement is expected to strengthen public awareness of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and reinforce national efforts to improve access to specialised healthcare for patients living with chronic diseases across the country.

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Ms Klutsey said food items being sold in markets after the floods may have been exposed to contaminated floodwaters.

“If you buy foodstuffs now from the market, they might not be that healthy. Let your family’s health be your priority,” she cautioned.

She urged consumers to thoroughly wash vegetables before consumption to reduce the risk of foodborne diseases.

“But the vegetables, take them home and wash them thoroughly. Use vinegar or salt when washing,” she advised.

Ms Klutsey also encouraged shoppers to avoid buying vegetables displayed on the ground, as they are more likely to have come into contact with contaminated water.

“Don’t buy vegetables from the floor. Buy the ones displayed on tables,” she said.

According to the environmental health expert, soaking vegetables in a vinegar solution for 10 to 15 minutes can help remove dirt and reduce contamination.

“Soak your vegetables for about 10 to 15 minutes in vinegar,” she recommended.

She further advised the public to consume freshly prepared hot meals whenever possible, noting that home-cooked food offers greater assurance of safety.

“Make sure you eat hot foods as well. When you cook your own food, you have the confidence that it is safe rather than someone else preparing it for you,” she added.

Her advice comes in the wake of the June 29 floods, which inundated several communities, markets and roads, raising concerns about food safety and the potential outbreak of waterborne and foodborne diseases.

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Mobile phones had been displaying the time on their LCD screens for almost a decade by this point — and the anxiety of how they might replace the traditional wristwatch was already in full swing. “Many young people see them as obsolete as sundials,” read one 2005 newspaper article. “For them, cell phones are the new watches.”

Throughout his life, the time has been available to Fry on iPhone screens, laptops, TVs, electric ovens, central heating systems, Nintendo DS’s and even beamed eeriely through bathroom mirrors. Which makes it all the more interesting that Fry has collected more than 35 watches, averaging between $1,000 and $2,000 a piece.

So far, his prized possession is a Tag Heuer Carrera — a silver linked piece with a deep magenta bezel which he bought for around $3,500. One day, Fry hopes to have a H Moser on his wrist, though some models retail for roughly around $50,000.

He’s already tried on his favorite, featuring a vanta black dial and no indexes, in the shop. “It’s just to die for,” he said.

Aged 22, Fry is part of a growing Gen Z cohort of watch lovers. According to secondhand luxury watch retailer Bezel, those under 30 account for a third of the company’s transactions. This group has been previously underestimated by legacy brands, said Bezel’s CEO Quaid Walker.

“I think the watch world is just starting to really pay attention to younger demographics,” he told CNN. According to Walker, the Gen Z market are the ones on average spending the most on a single watch purchase.

Longines, the storied luxury Swiss watchmaker, has also noticed an uptick in younger customers — particularly in those looking to restore or service older pieces.

Thiago Abrantes, an assistant manager in London, said around 50% of those he encountered at the city’s flagship store looking to service a watch were under 30. He put it down to inheritance. “A lot of people get a watch from dad as a gift,” he said.

Although his friends are catching on, Fry’s level of enthusiasm for watches means he is still “an outlier” amongst his peers. He makes YouTube videos from his home in Utah discussing his latest obsession and new releases from brands.

He also gives virtual tours of his formidable vintage collection, which includes pieces from the ‘60s, ‘70s and even a Zenith pocket watch from last century. His interest, he says, is partly down to a curiosity in our cultural history. “

They were a real companion in someone’s life, and because of their necessity, they had to be used every single day,” Fry said in a phone call. “There’s something deeply fascinating and almost sacred about holding and owning a piece that has gone through so much.”

That same sense of nostalgia could be driving design preferences, too. According to data collected in 2025 by luxury watch resale marketplace Chrono24, Gen Z buy more classic dress watches than any other age demographic.

The number of timepieces in this style — slim, formal with simple dials in gold, silver and often with a leather strap, like the Cartier Tank Louis Cartier, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony or a vintage Seiko — bought by those aged between 14 and 28 has risen 44% since 2018. “It anchors onto a time when things were collected, or made to last,” said Walker.

Dahyn Lee, owner of the online vintage watch shop Teia Collective, says that over 45% of her 10,000 followers on Instagram are Gen Z. “They grew up in this highly digital enviroment… It seems to me that it only intensified their desire for tactile and tangible objects,” she said.

Once a month Lee sells her collection, sourced through a mix of antique fairs, eBay, and relationships cultivated with Japanese sellers, at vintage markets in London.

With prices ranging from $60 to $460, these are entry-level purchases. She said teenagers will often approach her stall and choose a piece because “this is just like what my grandma used to wear.”

“I think it almost works as a connection to the past,” Lee said. “They can feel nostalgic for a time when they didn’t even exist.”

Gendered watches? A waste of time

Lee’s customers are also “obsessed” with dainty ladies watches — no matter their gender. “I’ve sold quite a lot of what is categorized as women’s watches to guys,” she said. “And then there are girls who ask for men’s watches as well.”

Fry also owns a number of timepieces originally designed for women. “I wasn’t brave enough to start wearing smaller, more feminine pieces until Timothée Chalamet wore that Cartier Panthère,” he said, referencing Chalamet’s 2024 “Dune: Part II” red carpet look in Mexico City. “Especially because he and I have very similar physiques. It was just that initial spark.

Abrantes echoes that celebrity influence is huge in the watch world — especially for those starting out and figuring out their taste — giving younger customers permission to buck trends, discover independent brands and break convention.

After the Academy Awards, which saw A-listers such as Hudson Williams, Michael B. Jordan, Shaboozey and Pedro Pascal experiment with smaller, more feminine styles, Abrantes had customers coming into Longines with screenshots from the red carpet looking for similar pieces. “People come in and try it on for curiosity. Sometimes they buy, sometimes they don’t,” he said.

“We have the same experience,” said Walker, whose app Bezel pairs customers with an in-house watch expert who can provide research, advice and purchase suggestions on request. “Folks will say, ‘I’m buying my first watch,’ and they’ll show us a photo of someone on the (red) carpet wearing something interesting,” he added.

This concierge service can alert younger shoppers to lesser known names, deepening brand knowledge outside of stereotypical big hitters like Rolex or Patek Phillippe. “It’s not just ‘I want to collect this watch because everyone else collects this watch,’” Walker said. “It’s actually an inversion of that.”

Lee says her shoppers are even more keen to prioritise design over specific brand cache — or sometimes in her experience, even function. “I see my customers as predominantly people who love beautiful things, rather than people who are obsessed with watches,” she said.

“All of my watches listed on my website are working, but then sometimes when I see something very special in terms of design, I do collect and sell it at the market,” Lee added. “Some customers really don’t mind a watch not working because they actually want a bracelet. I think that is very characteristic of Gen Z.” It’s often more about “the look,” she says.

Sometimes, a 14 or 15 year old — birth year: circa 2011, reigning mobile phone design: iPhone 4 — bounds up to her stall excitedly, about to buy a piece. “And then they tell their friends, ‘I don’t even know how to read time.’”

Most people can roll with a rough day, take a breath, and move on once things calm down. But when one bad day starts turning into another and another, it may no longer be just stress or a rough patch.

It could be unresolved anger showing up in ways someone has not yet fully noticed. Anger is a normal human emotion, but when people carry it around for too long, it can start to change how they talk, react, blame others, and pull away from the people around them.

The behaviors below are signs that someone may be carrying around a lot of unresolved anger, along with a few healthier ways to start changing course.

People carrying around a lot of unresolved anger often display these behaviors:

1. They blame other people for almost everything

If we find that we’re overly critical or judgmental in specific situations or across the board, we could be harboring some self-inflicted anger. Blaming others can also stem from needing to be right all the time or not seeing ourselves as possibly part of the problem.

Instead… practice putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.

Before we judge, overreact, or verbally assault someone, we can think about how we would feel if we were in another person’s situation. Knowing how we would feel if the shoe was on the other foot can help temper our responses.

2. They overreact quickly, and other people have noticed

If someone takes every small comment personally or becomes verbally harsh, this could be a sign of underlying anger. When other people start feeling like they have to walk on eggshells around us and have limited to no compassion for others, it may be time to take an honest look at our thoughts and behavior. 

Instead… accept that you won’t be right all the time.

Obviously we know, at least intellectually, that we cannot always be right. But when we are stuck in long-term anger, it can be hard not to feel this way and react as if we believe we are right or infallible. 

Acceptance is realizing that sometimes we don’t have all the facts, so we can’t have all the answers, and we can’t always be right. Acceptance is being okay with that, which leads to finding compassion and humility in ourselves and others.

3. They pull away from other people

When we become angry with everyone and everything, we may start to limit our social interactions to avoid outbursts or situations that might set us off. In addition, we could start feeling ill more regularly.

Anger has negative physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual side effects that can also keep people from enjoying spending time with others, limiting their tolerance levels, and therefore withdrawing from their normal social circle.  

Instead… seek out someone to talk with about our anger.

This is a good time to locate someone to confide in who will not just dismiss your feelings, coddle you, or over-indulge you in extremes. Find a person (therapist, anger management specialist, close friend, or family member) or group of people who will listen, respond non-judgmentally, and offer positive insight and inspiration.

When we are angry, especially when it’s consistent, it’s easy to see things negatively; anger overshadows and overpowers. Finding the light is difficult when we can’t see anything but darkness.

But giving ourselves a tangible reminder that there is always light available to us can offer us a simple ray of hope.

A photo, a necklace, a quote, and even a flashlight can serve as a physical reminder that our inner light exists. When the going gets tough, even someone experiencing long-term grief can find the way back to their light essence.

Pamela Aloia is a certified feng shui consultant, a certified grief coach, a Reiki master/teacher, and an author helping people become better versions of themselves through individual sessions, energy work, meditation, and more.

Addressing a high-level stakeholder engagement in Accra, the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, described the Medicines List as more than simply a catalogue of approved medicines.

She said it is a carefully designed national framework that identifies medicines eligible for funding under the Trust Fund while establishing reimbursement prices and standardised treatment protocols to promote transparency, consistency and accountability.

According to her, the initiative demonstrates the Trust Fund’s commitment to ensuring that no Ghanaian is denied access to essential medicines because of financial constraints.

“The Ghana Medical Trust Fund was established to respond to one of the greatest challenges confronting healthcare in Ghana: the enormous financial burden associated with chronic and high-cost non-communicable diseases,” she stated.

Ms. Darko-Opoku noted that many Ghanaian families are often forced to exhaust their savings, sell valuable assets or launch public fundraising appeals to finance treatment for illnesses such as cancer, kidney disease and cardiovascular conditions.

She explained that the Trust Fund seeks to change this reality by ensuring that access to specialised healthcare is determined by medical need rather than a patient’s ability to pay.

The Administrator disclosed that the Medicines List was developed from the revised national Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for cancers in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, ensuring that every medicine covered by the Fund is supported by clinical evidence and nationally accepted treatment standards.

She added that the Trust Fund and the Ministry of Health have successfully negotiated prices for selected medicines to make treatment more affordable while ensuring value for public funds.

“This Medicines List provides certainty for patients, healthcare providers, pharmacies and suppliers. It creates a common reference point that promotes fairness, transparency and confidence across the entire healthcare delivery system,” she said.

Ms. Darko-Opoku stressed that financing medicines alone would not be sufficient to guarantee quality healthcare delivery.

She said uninterrupted medicine availability, efficient procurement systems, predictable reimbursement processes and strong collaboration across the pharmaceutical value chain would be critical to the Fund’s success.

She therefore called on pharmaceutical manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, regulators, healthcare providers and development partners to work together to ensure sustainable pricing, effective supply chain management and continuous availability of medicines.

“Our responsibility is not only to establish a Trust Fund,” she emphasised. “Our responsibility is to build a financing system that is transparent, accountable, efficient and sustainable — a system that inspires confidence among patients, healthcare providers and every institution involved in its implementation.”

She also announced that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund Tariff Operational Manual has received approval from the Minister for Health, providing clear procedures for service costing, claims processing, provider reimbursement and financial accountability. According to her, the operational framework lays a solid foundation for the implementation of the Trust Fund.

“The success of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund will be measured by whether a patient who needs treatment can access it at the right time, in the right place and without being overwhelmed by financial hardship,” she stated.

The stakeholder engagement brought together representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Food and Drugs Authority, the National Health Insurance Authority, the Ghana Health Service, teaching hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, pharmacies, development partners and professional bodies to strengthen collaboration towards the successful implementation of the Medicines List.

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In a press release issued on Tuesday, July 1, the NHIA said the initiative will benefit all flood victims, including their dependants, to ensure they have access to healthcare without financial constraints.

The Authority said the decision was announced by its Chief Executive, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, as an urgent intervention to safeguard the health of residents in communities affected by the devastating floods.

According to the NHIA, the flooding has disrupted sanitation systems, contaminated water sources and heightened the risk of outbreaks of diarrhoea, cholera and other waterborne diseases.

The Authority stressed that the free registration exercise is intended to ensure that victims and their families can seek prompt medical attention as health officials monitor the post-flood disease situation.

“No Ghanaian should be denied access to quality healthcare because of a natural disaster. With an imminent outbreak of diarrhoea and cholera following the floods, this free registration will ensure that victims and their families can seek timely treatment without financial burden,” Dr. Bampoe stated.

The NHIA urged flood victims to take advantage of the initiative while continuing to observe public health and sanitation measures to reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.

The announcement comes in the wake of the June 29 floods that affected thousands of residents across the Greater Accra Region, causing loss of lives, displacement and widespread destruction of homes and property.

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In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 1, the Foundation said it has received a significant increase in distress calls and requests for assistance from patients and caregivers across the country.

According to FoSCel, the seasonal conditions have triggered more painful sickle cell crises, infections and other serious complications, leading to higher hospital admissions and placing emotional and financial strain on affected families.

The Foundation is therefore calling on government, the Ministry of Health, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), healthcare providers, development partners, corporate organisations and the general public to strengthen support for sickle cell patients during this period.

“The cold weather and seasonal changes have contributed to a rise in painful sickle cell crises, infections and other serious complications,” the Foundation said, adding that the increase in hospital admissions highlights the vulnerability of many patients during the rainy season.

FoSCel also issued practical advice to patients and caregivers, urging them to take proactive steps to stay safe.

It advised patients to keep warm at all times, drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, take prescribed medications consistently, avoid prolonged exposure to cold weather and seek immediate medical attention at the earliest signs of a crisis.

Describing sickle cell disease as a major public health concern in Ghana, the Foundation stressed that no person living with the condition should suffer or lose their life due to lack of access to prompt care and essential medicines.

FoSCel appealed to stakeholders to treat the situation with urgency, noting that a coordinated national response is essential to protect vulnerable patients throughout the rainy season and beyond.

It reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, healthcare institutions, civil society, development partners and the media to improve awareness, strengthen support systems and advocate for better policies.

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Read the full statement below:

The testing kits are critical for confirming HIV status, particularly among pregnant women and in emergency cases.

Speaking in an interview with the Ghana  News Agency, Ernest Amoabeng Ortsin, President of the Ghana HIV and AIDS Network (GHANET), warned that the depletion of current supplies could undermine progress toward epidemic control and stall efforts to meet global HIV targets.

He noted that the current consignment of HIV test kits and reagents would last only until July, after which testing services across the country could be disrupted.

Ortsin explained that without urgent intervention, the shortage could delay diagnosis, restrict access to antiretroviral therapy, and increase the risk of new infections.

“Shortages mean fewer people can be tested, increasing the risk of undetected HIV infections.” he said.

This development, he said, would threaten Ghana’s progress towards achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, which aim to ensure that 95% of people living with HIV are diagnosed, 95% t are on treatment, and 95% achieve viral suppression.

The testing commodities, both oral and blood testing kits, were provided by Global Fund from 2024-2026, with the arrangement that the government of Ghana would purchase the rest after the Global Fund had supplied theirs from the third year (2026).

The delay on the part of the government could be attributed to funding gaps, procurement delays, and heavy reliance on donor support for HIV-related supplies.

The GHANET President called for emergency procurement measures, improved supply chain management, and increased government financing to avert any crisis.

He expressed the worry that Ghana still relied heavily on external partners for HIV commodities, with limited domestic production capacity for test kits and reagents, and urged the government to consider the exploration of local manufacturing partnerships to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen the sustainability of Ghana’s HIV response.

He also called for the establishment of buffer stocks to cushion the system against future supply disruptions.

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The outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is no tested ​vaccine or treatment, has infected 1,307 people and ​killed 377 in the Democratic Republic of Congo ⁠since being declared on May 15, the government says.

A ​much smaller number of cases have been reported in ​Uganda, and experts warn of the possibility of it spreading to other neighbours, such as South Sudan.

“If we have the resources ​and we step up, we can contain this outbreak ​and prevent further losses,” said Damien Mama, United Nations Development Programme resident representative ‌in Congo.

“If we do not, this health emergency risks becoming a much deeper and prolonged development crisis across the region and potentially the continent.”

The UNDP outlined three ​scenarios for the ​outbreak. In the best-case scenario, where the epidemic remains contained in the two countries, the cost to Congo’s GDP is $ 1 billion, the report said.

In ⁠the worst-case scenario, the disease spreads to countries including Rwanda and Angola and coincides with higher fuel costs linked ⁠to ​the Iran crisis, cutting continental GDP ​by $3.6 billion and resulting in 328,000 job losses, the report said.

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The caution was given during a health sensitisation programme organised by the Health Unit of the Sekondi Central Prison, where officers were educated on hypertension, prostate health, diabetes and the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles.

The Officer in Charge of the Health Unit, ADP Anthony Sani Akinbola, advised individuals seeking to build muscle to do so naturally through regular exercise, proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits rather than relying on performance-enhancing drugs.

According to him, steroid abuse has been linked to a number of health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease and hormonal imbalances, making natural fitness the safest and most sustainable approach.

He also encouraged the public to adopt healthy habits such as engaging in regular physical activity, eating balanced meals, drinking adequate water, reducing alcohol consumption and limiting the intake of salt and sugary carbonated drinks to lower the risk of hypertension and other lifestyle-related diseases.

Speaking on diabetes, ASP Ruth Osei-Bonsu noted that although the condition has no cure, it can be effectively managed through healthy living, regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed treatment. She also urged the public to disregard common myths surrounding the disease and seek accurate medical information.

The sensitisation programme concluded with free health screenings, including blood pressure and blood glucose checks, as participants received medical advice and appropriate medication where necessary.

Health experts continue to encourage the public to prioritise preventive healthcare through routine medical check-ups and healthier lifestyle choices to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases.

The Service says the onset of the rainy season, combined with recent flood situations, has heightened the likelihood of contamination of water sources as rainwater may carry faecal matter into drinking water systems.

According to the GHS, the early rains also create favourable conditions for the spread of other diseases, including malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever, due to increased mosquito breeding in stagnant water collected in containers such as cans, tyres and other waste materials.

The Service further cautioned that vegetables grown near water bodies may also become contaminated during this period, posing additional health risks if not properly handled or washed.

The GHS has urged the public to strictly adhere to preventive measures, including maintaining clean surroundings, clearing bushes around homes, ensuring proper cooking of food, and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water, salt or vinegar.

Residents have also been advised to regularly wash their hands with soap under running water, purchase food from hygienic sources, and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility when symptoms of illness appear.

The Service also warned that flooding could displace reptiles from their natural habitats, increasing the risk of human contact. It advised residents to keep doors and windows secured where possible, elevate household items, and clear surroundings of bushes and potential hiding places.

Food vendors have also been reminded to adhere to strict hygiene practices, including sourcing food from approved suppliers, separating raw and cooked foods, and ensuring valid food handling certifications.

The Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service say they remain committed to safeguarding public health and have called for cooperation from all citizens to prevent potential disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

The event attracted healthcare professionals, community leaders, dignitaries, and hundreds of residents who took advantage of the free medical screening services.

Chief Executive Officer of Jimah Labs Diagnostics and Imaging Centre, Dr. Philip Gyapon Gyimah, reaffirmed his commitment to providing accurate, affordable, and quality diagnostic and imaging services to the people of Abuakwa and beyond.

He noted that the establishment of the modern laboratory is aimed at improving access to quality healthcare while supporting doctors with timely and reliable laboratory investigations.

The occasion was graced by the mother of the CEO, Madam Juliana Adutwumwaa, Chief Executive Officer of Adutwumwaa Herbal Industries, who urged residents of Abuakwa to make their health a top priority by undergoing regular medical check-ups.

“Good health is our greatest asset. I encourage everyone in Abuakwa to visit Jimah Labs regularly for routine health screening and early detection of diseases. Prevention is always better than cure,” she emphasized.

Municipal Disease Control Officer, Saddick Adams Agyare, urged staff of the facility to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, confidentiality, and ethical conduct in the delivery of healthcare services.

According to him, maintaining quality service and patient-centred care would earn the confidence and trust of the public.

The Assembly Member for the Abuakwa Electoral Area also appealed to residents to patronize the services of Jimah Labs whenever healthcare providers request laboratory investigations.

He explained that increased public support would enable the facility to expand its operations and establish additional branches across the district, thereby making quality diagnostic healthcare more accessible to surrounding communities.

The event received support from medical professionals from Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital and SDA Hospital, Kwadaso, who joined the Jimah Labs team to provide free health screening services, including blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, health education, and medical consultations.

Many beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing it as timely and beneficial, while commending the management of Jimah Labs for investing in quality healthcare services within the Abuakwa community.

The successful launch marks the beginning of what many believe will be a new chapter in accessible and reliable diagnostic healthcare in the Ashanti Region, with Jimah Labs positioning itself as a trusted centre for precision diagnostics and improved patient care.

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Delivering remarks on behalf of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Theo Acheampong, said the changing global financing landscape makes stronger collaboration between government, CHAG and the private sector more important than ever.

“Beyond public financing, we must also recognise that the global financing environment is changing. Development assistance is becoming increasingly constrained, and Ghana is already experiencing the effects of declining overseas development support,” he said.

According to Dr. Acheampong, the reduction in external development financing means Ghana can no longer depend heavily on donor support to fund essential healthcare services.

“This means we must increasingly finance our own development priorities. That requires stronger domestic systems, improved public financing, greater efficiency, careful prioritisation and stronger accountability,” he stated.

He said government is therefore looking beyond traditional public financing and is pursuing innovative approaches to ensure the long-term sustainability of the country’s health system.

“It also requires innovation. The future of healthcare financing will increasingly depend on innovative financing instruments, stronger public-private partnerships and greater mobilisation of private capital to complement government investment,” he said.

Dr. Acheampong described CHAG as an indispensable partner in that strategy, citing its nationwide network, community trust and decades of service in rural and underserved communities.

“Government cannot achieve this vision alone. We need CHAG. Together, we have the opportunity to build one of Africa’s strongest community-based healthcare systems – one that is sustainably financed, efficiently managed and deeply rooted in public trust,” he said.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with CHAG as part of efforts to deliver the Free Primary Health Care programme and achieve Universal Health Coverage.

“A partnership in which government provides the enabling policy environment and financing framework, and CHAG continues to deliver compassionate, efficient and trusted healthcare,” he added.

The Finance Ministry also announced that CHAG facilities will receive their fair share of equipment and infrastructure investments under the Free Primary Health Care programme, while government continues reforms aimed at strengthening the financial sustainability of the National Health Insurance Scheme.

Dr. Acheampong said Parliament has approved GH¢10.7 billion for the NHIS in 2025, including GH¢6.5 billion for provider claims, describing it as one of the strongest commitments to health provider payments in recent years.

The Christian Health Association of Ghana operates 375 health facilities across all 16 regions and provides between 30 and 40 per cent of healthcare services nationwide, despite owning only about seven per cent of the country’s health infrastructure. Its network serves between eight and ten million patients annually and remains one of government’s principal partners in delivering healthcare to rural and hard-to-reach communities.

Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Theo Acheampong, announced the allocation while delivering a speech on behalf of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson at the 2026 Annual Conference of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) in Koforidua.

According to him, the allocation reflects government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare financing following the uncapping of the National Health Insurance Fund, which has made more resources available for health spending.

“We are pleased to report that there are now more resources available to support these critical investments. Following the uncapping of National Health Insurance Fund resources, additional funding is now available to strengthen the National Health Insurance Authority and support priority investments across the health sector,” he said.

Dr. Acheampong said government recognises that delayed reimbursements have long affected healthcare providers, making timely claims payments a key priority under the new financing arrangements.

“For 2025, Parliament approved GH¢10.7 billion for the NHIS, of which GH¢6.5 billion has been allocated for claims payments. This represents one of the strongest commitments to provider payments in recent years,” he stated.

He said the objective is to ensure healthcare providers spend more time caring for patients instead of pursuing outstanding reimbursements.

“Our objective is simple. Health facilities should spend more time caring for patients and less time chasing outstanding claims,” he added.

The funding comes as government rolls out the Free Primary Healthcare programme, one of its flagship health reforms designed to remove financial barriers to essential healthcare while strengthening disease prevention, health promotion and early diagnosis.

According to Dr. Acheampong, sustaining the programme will require a financially stable National Health Insurance Scheme capable of reimbursing service providers promptly and supporting expanded access to care.

He noted that government would continue investing in health infrastructure, recruit and deploy more health workers and strengthen partnerships with organisations such as CHAG to improve healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved communities.

The Finance Ministry also reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring CHAG facilities benefit from investments under the Free Primary Healthcare programme, describing the faith-based health provider as a strategic partner in achieving Universal Health Coverage.

“Government cannot achieve Universal Health Coverage alone. Partnership remains essential,” he said.

Beyond public funding, Dr. Acheampong acknowledged that Ghana’s health sector faces increasing pressure from declining development assistance and donor support.

He said this makes it imperative for the country to strengthen domestic health financing, improve efficiency and accountability, and explore innovative financing mechanisms to sustain healthcare delivery.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson at the 2026 Annual Conference of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) in Koforidua, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Theo Acheampong, said government now views healthcare as economic infrastructure essential to national development rather than merely a social service.

“Health is not merely a social service. Health is economic infrastructure,” Dr. Acheampong said.

He explained that investing in healthcare expands access to services, improves workforce productivity and ultimately drives economic growth.

“The strongest currency of any nation is not simply its money. It is the health, productivity and resilience of its people,” he added.

His remarks come as government rolls out the Free Primary Healthcare programme, one of its flagship health reforms aimed at expanding access to preventive healthcare services and accelerating Ghana’s progress towards Universal Health Coverage.

According to Dr. Acheampong, the programme represents a strategic investment that will reduce the long-term economic cost of disease while improving the wellbeing of the population.

He argued that the country’s healthcare financing has for years been disproportionately focused on treating illness instead of preventing it.

Citing government expenditure data, he said approximately 52 per cent of current health spending goes into curative care while only about 12 per cent is invested in preventive healthcare.

“In practical terms, for every one cedi spent on preventing illness, about four to five cedis are spent treating diseases after they occur. We believe this imbalance must change,” he said.

He noted that shifting investment towards prevention would improve health outcomes, reduce pressure on health facilities and lower future healthcare costs.

Dr. Acheampong said the Ministry of Finance fully supports the Free Primary Healthcare initiative because of its emphasis on disease prevention, health promotion and early detection.

He stressed that stronger primary healthcare systems would help keep Ghanaians healthy and economically productive while reducing avoidable hospital admissions and expensive treatments.

The Finance Ministry also reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare financing.

Dr. Acheampong disclosed that Parliament approved GH¢10.7 billion for the National Health Insurance Scheme this year, with GH¢6.5 billion allocated specifically for claims payments to health service providers.

He said the objective is to ensure health facilities spend more time treating patients instead of pursuing delayed reimbursements.

The Ministry also acknowledged the contribution of the Christian Health Association of Ghana to national healthcare delivery, describing the association as a strategic partner whose facilities continue to serve many rural and underserved communities where access to healthcare remains limited.

According to Dr. Acheampong, achieving Universal Health Coverage will require sustained collaboration between government, faith-based health institutions and development partners.

He said government would continue investing in primary healthcare infrastructure, health workers and innovative financing while strengthening partnerships that improve access to quality healthcare for all Ghanaians.

“The President’s vision is to build a Ghana where quality healthcare is available to every citizen regardless of income, geography or social status,” he said.

Dr. Acheampong urged stakeholders to view healthcare not simply as public expenditure but as an investment in Ghana’s long-term economic transformation, insisting that a healthy population remains the country’s most valuable resource.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Dr. Theo Acheampong, said government considers CHAG an indispensable partner in achieving Universal Health Coverage and remains committed to strengthening the long-standing partnership between the state and faith-based health providers.

“We are pleased that CHAG facilities will receive their fair share of the equipment and investments being rolled out under the Free Primary Healthcare programme,” Dr. Acheampong announced.

The assurance comes as government accelerates the implementation of the Free Primary Health Care initiative, one of President Mahama administration’s flagship health policies aimed at eliminating financial, geographical and socio-economic barriers to accessing essential healthcare services, particularly for people living in rural and underserved communities.

Dr. Acheampong said government recognises CHAG’s extensive contribution to healthcare delivery, noting that its nationwide network of hospitals, clinics and health centres makes it an essential partner in expanding access to primary healthcare.

“Government cannot achieve this vision alone. We need CHAG. Together, we have the opportunity to build one of Africa’s strongest community-based healthcare systems – one that is sustainably financed, efficiently managed and deeply rooted in public trust,” he said.

He explained that government is implementing several reforms to strengthen the financial sustainability of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which remains central to financing healthcare services across the country.

According to him, Parliament has approved GH¢10.7 billion for the NHIS in 2025, with GH¢6.5 billion specifically allocated for the payment of claims to healthcare providers.

“This represents one of the strongest commitments to provider payments in recent years. Our objective is simple. Health facilities should spend more time caring for patients and less time pursuing outstanding claims,” he said.

Dr. Acheampong added that government would continue supporting the recruitment, deployment and remuneration of healthcare professionals while investing in primary healthcare infrastructure nationwide.

He, however, cautioned that Ghana’s healthcare financing landscape is changing as international development assistance continues to decline.

“Development assistance is becoming increasingly constrained, and Ghana is already experiencing the effects of declining overseas development support. This means we must increasingly finance our own development priorities,” he said.

To sustain investment in healthcare, Dr. Acheampong said government would focus on strengthening domestic resource mobilisation, improving efficiency in public spending and expanding partnerships with the private sector.

“The future of healthcare financing will increasingly depend on innovative financing instruments, stronger public-private partnerships and greater mobilisation of private capital to complement government investment,” he noted.

He described healthcare as an economic investment rather than merely a social service, arguing that a healthy population is fundamental to productivity and national development.

“The President’s vision is clear. It is to build a Ghana where quality healthcare is available to every citizen, regardless of income, geography or social status. A Ghana where no family is pushed into poverty because a loved one falls ill. A Ghana where prevention becomes the first line of defence,” he said.

Dr. Acheampong reaffirmed government’s commitment to deepening its partnership with CHAG, describing the association as one of the country’s most trusted healthcare providers.

“A partnership in which government provides the enabling policy environment and financing framework, and CHAG continues to deliver compassionate, efficient and trusted healthcare,” he said.

The Christian Health Association of Ghana operates 375 health facilities across the country’s 16 regions and provides between 30 and 40 per cent of healthcare services nationwide, despite owning only about seven per cent of Ghana’s health infrastructure.

Through its network of hospitals, clinics, health centres and training institutions, CHAG serves between eight and ten million patients annually and remains one of government’s principal partners in delivering healthcare to rural and hard-to-reach communities.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, Executive Director of CHAG, Dr. Peter Kwame Yeboah, said the association’s contribution extends beyond healthcare delivery within Ghana, with several of its hospitals providing critical services to patients from neighbouring countries.

“Our contribution extends well beyond numbers. CHAG provides strategic value and vital leverage for Ghana’s health security,” Dr. Yeboah said.

He explained that several CHAG facilities located in border communities serve as referral centres for patients from neighbouring countries, helping strengthen regional health security.

Among them are the Presbyterian Hospital in Bawku in the Upper East Region, which serves patients from Ghana, Togo and Burkina Faso; St. Theresa’s Catholic Hospital in Nandom in the Upper West Region, which provides healthcare to people from Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso; Presbyterian Hospital in Dormaa in the Bono Region, which serves communities in both Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire; and St. Martin de Porres Catholic Hospital at Eikwe in the Western Region, which also provides healthcare to patients from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

According to Dr. Yeboah, these facilities have become an integral part of healthcare delivery beyond Ghana’s borders.

“We provide critical health services in border communities such as Bawku, Nandom, Dormaa and Eikwe, thereby strengthening regional health security across neighbouring countries,” he said.

The CHAG Executive Director noted that the association’s role becomes even more critical during periods of instability.

“In conflict-prone environments, our facilities remain symbols of continuity, stability and hope,” he said.

Dr. Yeboah said CHAG has deliberately maintained its presence in communities where access to healthcare remains limited, describing the association’s commitment to rural and underserved areas as one of its defining strengths.

“For decades, we have deliberately chosen to establish our services in remote, underserved and often forgotten communities where, in many instances, CHAG facilities remain the only available source of healthcare and referral services,” he stated.

He added that CHAG’s deep roots within local communities have enabled it to earn the confidence of the people it serves.

“Most importantly, we are deeply rooted within the communities we serve. Through decades of faithful presence, we have earned what may be our greatest institutional asset – the trust of the people,” Dr. Yeboah said.

Beyond its strategic role in border healthcare, Dr. Yeboah highlighted CHAG’s broader contribution to Ghana’s health system.

Although the association owns just about 7 per cent of the country’s health infrastructure, it delivers between 30 and 40 per cent of healthcare services nationwide through a network of 375 health facilities across all 16 regions.

He said between eight and ten million people receive care annually through CHAG facilities, which provide preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, palliative and specialist healthcare services.

Dr. Yeboah also underscored CHAG’s contribution to developing Ghana’s health workforce through its 22 accredited health training institutions.

“Every year, we produce about 3,400 professionally qualified and ethically grounded health professionals, including nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, orthotics and prosthetics technicians, and other middle-level health workers who continue to strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system,” he said.

He reaffirmed CHAG’s commitment to supporting government’s Free Primary Health Care initiative, describing it as a historic opportunity to expand access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

“The promise of Free Primary Health Care is unquestionable. Its aspirations are noble. Its vision is compelling. However, every great policy ultimately succeeds or fails at the point of implementation,” he said.

Dr. Yeboah called for stronger collaboration among government, development partners and healthcare providers to ensure the successful implementation of the policy and improve healthcare outcomes for all Ghanaians.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, Executive Director of CHAG, Dr. Peter Kwame Yeboah, said the association’s contribution to national healthcare extends far beyond the number of facilities it operates.

“Although CHAG owns barely seven per cent of Ghana’s health infrastructure, our network contributes between 30 and 40 per cent of the nation’s healthcare services,” he said.

According to Dr. Yeboah, CHAG’s network of 375 health facilities across all 16 regions provides healthcare to between eight and ten million people every year.

“Every year, between eight and ten million Ghanaians receive compassionate, holistic and quality healthcare through our network of 375 health facilities located across all 16 regions of Ghana. These facilities continue to provide comprehensive services ranging from preventive, curative, promotive, palliative and rehabilitative healthcare to specialist and referral services, always guided by our commitment to excellence, compassion and dignity,” he stated.

Beyond service delivery, Dr. Yeboah said CHAG has become an indispensable partner in Ghana’s health sector because of its longstanding commitment to rural and underserved communities.

“Our contribution extends well beyond numbers. CHAG provides strategic value and vital leverage for Ghana’s health security,” he said.

He noted that several CHAG facilities located in border communities provide healthcare not only to Ghanaians but also to patients from neighbouring countries, helping strengthen regional health security.

Among them are the Presbyterian Hospital in Bawku, which serves patients from Ghana, Togo and Burkina Faso; St. Theresa’s Catholic Hospital in Nandom, which serves communities in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Burkina Faso; Presbyterian Hospital in Dormaa, which provides healthcare to patients from both Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire; and St. Martin de Porres Catholic Hospital at Eikwe, which serves communities in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

“We provide critical health services in border communities such as Bawku, Nandom, Dormaa and Eikwe, thereby strengthening regional health security across neighbouring countries,” Dr. Yeboah said.

He added that CHAG has deliberately established many of its facilities in remote and deprived communities where access to healthcare remains limited.

“For decades, we have deliberately chosen to establish our services in remote, underserved and often forgotten communities where, in many instances, CHAG facilities remain the only available source of healthcare and referral services,” he said.

According to Dr. Yeboah, CHAG’s deep roots in these communities have enabled the association to build lasting public confidence.

“Most importantly, we are deeply rooted within the communities we serve. Through decades of faithful presence, we have earned what may be our greatest institutional asset – the trust of the people,” he stated.

Beyond healthcare delivery, Dr. Yeboah highlighted CHAG’s contribution to developing Ghana’s health workforce.

Through its 22 accredited health training institutions, the association produces about 3,400 professionally qualified and ethically grounded health professionals each year, including nurses, midwives, physiotherapists, orthotics and prosthetics technicians, and other middle-level health workers.

He described CHAG as the only implementing partner of the Ministry of Health that simultaneously delivers healthcare services while training the country’s future health workforce.

“First, we are a major healthcare service provider. Second, we are a key producer of the country’s health workforce,” he said.

Dr. Yeboah reaffirmed CHAG’s commitment to supporting government’s Free Primary Health Care initiative but stressed that successful implementation would require strong partnerships and sustained investment.

“The promise of Free Primary Health Care is unquestionable. Its aspirations are noble. Its vision is compelling. However, every great policy ultimately succeeds or fails at the point of implementation,” he said.

The 2026 CHAG Annual Conference is being held under the theme, “Positioning CHAG to Deliver People-Centred Free Primary Health Care at the Community Level,” bringing together health professionals, policymakers, development partners and faith-based health institutions to discuss the future of primary healthcare delivery in Ghana.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, WHO Representative to Ghana, Dr. Fiona Braka, said the collaboration between government and CHAG has become a model for delivering healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

“The partnership between the Government of Ghana and CHAG is often cited as one of Africa’s strongest examples of public-faith sector collaboration,” Dr. Braka said.

According to her, the partnership has played a significant role in expanding access to healthcare services, strengthening Ghana’s health workforce and improving health outcomes over several decades.

“It has contributed significantly to expanding access to healthcare, strengthening the health workforce and improving health outcomes across the country,” she stated.

Dr. Braka said CHAG’s contribution to Ghana’s health sector has been particularly evident in communities where access to healthcare remains limited.

“For many decades, CHAG has been a pillar of Ghana’s health system. Through its network of hospitals, clinics, health training institutions and community-based services, CHAG has brought healthcare closer to millions of Ghanaians, particularly those living in rural, remote and underserved communities,” she said.

The public health expert noted that CHAG’s extensive presence across the country places the association at the centre of government’s efforts to implement the flagship Free Primary Healthcare programme and achieve Universal Health Coverage.

“As Ghana embarks on the implementation of Free Primary Healthcare, CHAG’s extensive presence, experience and trusted relationships with communities position it as a critical partner in ensuring that this reform translates into meaningful improvements in people’s lives,” Dr. Braka said.

The WHO Representative stressed that countries which have made the greatest progress towards Universal Health Coverage have done so by investing in strong primary healthcare systems capable of reaching people at the community level.

“Primary healthcare improves health outcomes, promotes equity, reduces avoidable hospital admissions, strengthens health system resilience and provides the most efficient pathway towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Three on health and well-being,” she said.

However, she emphasised that no single institution can deliver effective primary healthcare on its own.

“Strong primary healthcare cannot be delivered by government alone. It requires partnerships. It requires collaboration among public institutions, faith-based organisations, private healthcare providers, civil society, communities, academia and development partners,” she noted.

Dr. Braka said the World Health Organisation has worked closely with both the Government of Ghana and CHAG over the years to strengthen primary healthcare, improve disease prevention and control, develop the health workforce and enhance the quality of healthcare services.

“We deeply value this longstanding partnership with CHAG and appreciate your unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of Ghana,” she said.

She reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting CHAG as Ghana rolls out the Free Primary Healthcare programme.

“Today, I want to reaffirm WHO’s solidarity with CHAG. We stand in solidarity with your mission. We stand in solidarity with your efforts to strengthen community-based healthcare delivery and ensure that quality healthcare reaches the most vulnerable. And we stand in solidarity with the thousands of health workers serving in CHAG facilities across the country,” Dr. Braka stated.

She expressed confidence that the continued collaboration between government, CHAG, development partners and communities would strengthen Ghana’s health system and improve healthcare delivery nationwide.

“Working together, we can build a health system that is equitable, resilient, people-centred and capable of delivering better health outcomes for all,” she said.

The Christian Health Association of Ghana is one of the Ministry of Health’s largest implementing partners, operating 375 health facilities and 22 accredited health training institutions across the country.

The association provides between 30 and 40 per cent of healthcare services nationwide and serves between eight and ten million patients annually, with many of its facilities located in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 CHAG Annual Conference in Koforidua, WHO Representative to Ghana, Dr. Fiona Braka, said the ambitious health reform presents Ghana with a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage, but stressed that its success will depend on institutions already embedded within communities.

“As Ghana embarks on the implementation of Free Primary Healthcare, CHAG’s extensive presence, experience and trusted relationships with communities position it as a critical partner in ensuring that this reform translates into meaningful improvements in people’s lives,” she said.

According to Dr. Braka, CHAG’s long history of providing healthcare in rural, remote and underserved communities makes the association uniquely positioned to support government’s efforts to expand access to quality healthcare.

“For many decades, CHAG has been a pillar of Ghana’s health system. Through its network of hospitals, clinics, health training institutions and community-based services, CHAG has brought healthcare closer to millions of Ghanaians, particularly those living in rural, remote and underserved communities,” she stated.

She explained that while the Free Primary Healthcare programme is designed to remove financial and geographical barriers to healthcare, meaningful impact will only be achieved if services are delivered where people live.

“The Government of Ghana’s commitment to implementing Free Primary Healthcare presents us with a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage and to ensure that quality, essential health services are accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay,” she said.

Dr. Braka noted that despite improvements in Ghana’s health system, many families continue to face significant barriers in accessing basic healthcare.

“Recent evidence reminds us that access to health services remains uneven across Ghana. In many districts, families still travel long distances to access basic primary healthcare services and treatment for non-communicable diseases,” she said.

She stressed that strengthening primary healthcare remains the most effective pathway towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.

“Globally, the evidence is clear. Countries that have made significant progress towards Universal Health Coverage have done so by building strong primary healthcare systems,” she said.

According to the WHO Representative, robust primary healthcare systems not only improve health outcomes but also strengthen the resilience and efficiency of national health systems.

“Primary healthcare improves health outcomes, promotes equity, reduces avoidable hospital admissions, strengthens health system resilience and provides the most efficient pathway towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Three on health and well-being,” she noted.

Dr. Braka emphasised that effective primary healthcare requires collaboration across government, faith-based organisations, private healthcare providers, civil society and development partners.

“Strong primary healthcare cannot be delivered by government alone. It requires partnerships. It requires collaboration among public institutions, faith-based organisations, private healthcare providers, civil society, communities, academia and development partners,” she said.

She described the longstanding partnership between the Government of Ghana and CHAG as one of the country’s greatest strengths in delivering healthcare to underserved populations.

The WHO Representative also reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting CHAG as Ghana implements the Free Primary Healthcare programme.

“We deeply value this longstanding partnership with CHAG and appreciate your unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of Ghana,” she said.

“Today, I want to reaffirm WHO’s solidarity with CHAG. We stand in solidarity with your mission. We stand in solidarity with your efforts to strengthen community-based healthcare delivery and ensure that quality healthcare reaches the most vulnerable. And we stand in solidarity with the thousands of health workers serving in CHAG facilities across the country.”

Dr. Braka expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between government, CHAG and development partners would ensure the Free Primary Healthcare programme delivers lasting improvements in healthcare access and outcomes.

“Working together, we can build a health system that is equitable, resilient, people-centred and capable of delivering better health outcomes for all,” she said.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) Annual Conference in Koforidua, WHO Representative to Ghana, Dr. Fiona Braka, said people-centred healthcare goes beyond expanding services and requires health systems to respond to the everyday realities of the communities they serve.

“People-centred care means much more than simply providing services. It means listening to communities, respecting their dignity, responding to their needs and ensuring that health services are organised around the realities of people’s lives,” she said.

According to Dr. Braka, the government’s Free Primary Healthcare programme presents Ghana with an opportunity to redesign healthcare around people’s needs while accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage.

“The Government of Ghana’s commitment to implementing Free Primary Healthcare presents us with a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage and to ensure that quality, essential health services are accessible to everyone, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay,” she stated.

The public health expert said achieving that ambition requires more than policy commitments, insisting that healthcare must reach people who continue to face barriers to accessing basic services.

“It means reaching those who are most often left behind and ensuring that every individual, every family and every community can access quality healthcare when and where they need it,” she said.

Dr. Braka observed that despite progress in expanding healthcare, significant disparities remain across Ghana, with many families in rural communities still travelling long distances to access primary healthcare and treatment for non-communicable diseases.

“Recent evidence reminds us that access to health services remains uneven across Ghana. In many districts, families still travel long distances to access basic primary healthcare services and treatment for non-communicable diseases,” she noted.

The WHO Representative said countries that have successfully advanced towards Universal Health Coverage have done so by investing in strong primary healthcare systems rather than relying predominantly on hospital-based care.

“Globally, the evidence is clear. Countries that have made significant progress towards Universal Health Coverage have done so by building strong primary healthcare systems,” she said.

She explained that strong primary healthcare delivers multiple benefits beyond improving access to care.

“Primary healthcare improves health outcomes, promotes equity, reduces avoidable hospital admissions, strengthens health system resilience and provides the most efficient pathway towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Three on health and well-being,” Dr. Braka stated.

She described the Christian Health Association of Ghana as one of the country’s most important partners in making people-centred healthcare a reality because of its longstanding presence in communities that are often underserved.

“When we speak about community-centred and people-centred healthcare in Ghana, it is impossible not to recognise the remarkable contribution of CHAG,” she said.

“For many decades, CHAG has been a pillar of Ghana’s health system. Through its network of hospitals, clinics, health training institutions and community-based services, CHAG has brought healthcare closer to millions of Ghanaians, particularly those living in rural, remote and underserved communities,” she added.

Dr. Braka said CHAG’s extensive network and trusted relationships with communities make the association indispensable to the successful implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare programme.

“As Ghana embarks on the implementation of Free Primary Healthcare, CHAG’s extensive presence, experience and trusted relationships with communities position it as a critical partner in ensuring that this reform translates into meaningful improvements in people’s lives,” she said.

She, however, stressed that delivering effective primary healthcare cannot be the responsibility of government alone.

“Strong primary healthcare cannot be delivered by government alone. It requires partnerships. It requires collaboration among public institutions, faith-based organisations, private healthcare providers, civil society, communities, academia and development partners,” she said.

Dr. Braka reaffirmed the World Health Organization’s commitment to supporting both the Government of Ghana and CHAG as they work to strengthen primary healthcare and improve health outcomes across the country.

“Working together, we can build a health system that is equitable, resilient, people-centred and capable of delivering better health outcomes for all,” she said.

Spokesperson for the Ministry, Tony Goodman, in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, June 29, 2026, said health authorities had already begun public education campaigns before the rains, stressing that flooding conditions often create a high-risk environment for cholera transmission if proper hygiene measures are not observed.

“You know, even before the rain started, we had begun giving this information out, letting the people know that when we are flat, what follows is cholera,” he said.

He warned that some residents continue to dump waste into water bodies during floods, describing the practice as dangerous and a major driver of disease outbreaks.

“We need to stop throwing garbage into our water bodies. But whenever there is a flood, that is when people think they can empty their dustbins and the rest,” he added.

Mr Goodman said the Ghana Health Service has also begun issuing alerts to districts to monitor early symptoms of cholera as part of emergency preparedness efforts.

He noted that cholera surveillance and response planning are now routine components of seasonal health planning, particularly during the rainy season.

“We prepare for it. If it’s a wet season, rainy season, we prepare for cholera. We are endemic,” he stated.

The Ministry of Health says it continues to intensify public health messaging as flooding persists in several parts of the country.

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Currently, about 70 per cent of medicines used in hospitals and community pharmacies in Ghana are imported, with only 30 per cent produced locally.

The President of the Society, Dr. (Pharm.) Paul Owusu Donkor, is calling on government and stakeholders to strategically invest in the local pharmaceutical industry to boost domestic production.

He warned that continued dependence on global supply chains exposes the country to external shocks and vulnerabilities.

“If we continue to rely on global supply chain systems for our medicines, then we are compromising our national security issues,” he cautioned.

He made the remarks during a commemorative engagement at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi as part of activities marking the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana’s 90th anniversary.

Dr. Donkor noted that achieving a target of 70 per cent local production would require deliberate investment in manufacturing infrastructure, capital, land access, technology, and human resource development.

He added that strengthening local production could position Ghana as a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in West Africa.

“Health is wealth, we have said many times. Now, pharmaceutical care needs are also a national security issue. We want to see a Ghana that does 70% of its pharmaceutical care needs,” he said.

The Society also raised concern over the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), partly attributing the public health challenge to the misuse of medicines and the circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs.

Each year, an estimated 4,900 to 6,200 people in Ghana die from antimicrobial resistance-related infections.

Dr. Donkor explained that underserved rural and peri-urban communities remain particularly vulnerable due to gaps in healthcare access, which are often exploited by illegal medicine vendors.

“Sometimes the underserved peri-urban and rural areas become a void that is filled by medicine peddlers, counterfeit, fake, spurious and substandard medicines,” he said.

He called for stricter surveillance by regulators, including the Pharmacy Council and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), to intensify enforcement against the manufacture, importation, and sale of substandard medicines.

“The regulator must continue to crack the whip on persons that bring these falsified medicines into our supply chain system. That is how we can uproot the menace of antimicrobial resistance,” he said.

He emphasized that pharmacists remain critical to antimicrobial stewardship, but stressed that the fight against AMR requires coordinated action by regulators, health institutions, and government.

“If a medicine is not in the hands of a pharmacist but falls into the hands of quacks, then we will lose the fight against antimicrobial resistance,” he cautioned.

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The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, announced the intervention during a working visit to the facility on Friday, June 26, 2026, where he inspected ongoing operations and outlined immediate and long-term measures to strengthen waste management following the flooding.

Touring the facility, Hon. Ibrahim who is also the Member of Parliament for Banda said officials from his ministry, together with technical officers, had spent the past two weeks responding to what he described as a serious sanitation emergency.

He expressed appreciation to the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong; the 48 Engineers Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces; the National Security Coordinator and Deputy Chief of Staff at the office of the President, Mr. Stan Dogbe; and other stakeholders for supporting the government’s response to the crisis.

According to Mr. Ibrahim, the recent floods left several landfill sites inundated, preventing nearly 3,000 tricycle waste operators, popularly known as Aboboyas, from disposing of refuse collected from households and businesses.

He noted that without the reopening of the Achimota Transfer Station by Zoomlion, the situation could have escalated into a major environmental and public health crisis.

The transfer station now serves as a temporary relief point where tricycle operators can discharge waste for onward transportation by larger haulage trucks to designated treatment and disposal facilities.

He described the intervention as critical to restoring efficient waste collection services across the capital while reducing indiscriminate dumping.

Touching on the economics of waste management, Hon.Ibrahim observed that many transfer stations have struggled to operate sustainably because of inadequate financial support.

“User fees at some facilities had become unaffordable for informal waste collectors, forcing many to resort to unauthorised dumping sites charging lower fees,” he said.

He stressed that the practice contributed significantly to environmental pollution, particularly after floodwaters carried waste into surrounding communities, including parts of Dansoman.

“Effective sanitation extends beyond sweeping streets and collecting refuse. Modern waste management, he said, encompasses collection, transportation, sorting, treatment, recycling and reuse.

To strengthen the sector, the government intends to engage informal waste collectors, transfer station operators and waste management companies in developing a sustainable operational framework that makes better use of existing infrastructure.

The Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong described the reopening of the AchimotaTransfer Station as a timely intervention. He explained that transfer stations are critical to modern waste management because they allow small tricycles to discharge waste at nearby facilities before larger trucks transport it to treatment and final disposal sites.

He disclosed that the Achimota Transfer Station was established in 2015 following a tour of Turkey led by President John Dramani Mahama to examine modern waste management systems.

Although the facility was successfully completed, operations could not be sustained because the expected government subsidy did not materialise, making the cost of operations unsustainable.

Dr. Siaw Agyepong called for sustained government support for transfer station operations, arguing that sanitation should be treated as a public good rather than a commercial venture.

Citing countries such as China and Turkey, he noted that governments heavily subsidise waste transfer infrastructure because effective sanitation protects public health, prevents disease outbreaks and safeguards the environment.

He further described waste management as a scientific and technical discipline requiring specialised expertise beyond the simple collection and disposal of refuse.

He also highlighted Ghana’s growing leadership in waste management, noting that Zoomlion has evolved from operating manual tricycles over two decades ago to managing about 45 treatment facilities nationwide, including solid, liquid, medical and hazardous waste plants.

The company’s expertise has attracted interest from several African countries, with trained Ghanaian professionals currently supporting sanitation operations in Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria and other countries.

Both government and the Jospong Group expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration, sustained investment and appropriate policy support would improve waste management systems and enhance environmental sanitation across the country.

World Drug Day is observed annually to raise awareness of the dangers of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, and their effects on individuals, families, communities, and national development. The day also provides a platform for governments, institutions, development partners, and communities to reflect on practical interventions to reduce the harm caused by drug abuse, particularly among young people.

Across the world, substance use continues to destroy lives, weaken families, disrupt education, and threaten the future of many young people. Current global estimates indicate that about 400 million people live with substance use disorders, while approximately 2.6 million deaths each year are linked to psychoactive substances. In Sub-Saharan Africa, substance use among adolescents and young adults remains a growing public health concern that requires urgent and evidence-based responses.

It was against this background that the Research and Consultancy Centre of the University of Professional Studies, Accra, in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Commission, presented findings from a baseline study on youth substance use in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality.

The presentation formed part of activities marking this year’s World Drug Day celebration. The event brought together key stakeholders and dignitaries, including the Director-General of NACOC, Brigadier General M. O. Mantey; the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak; the Minister of Education; the Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah (Special Guest of Honour); a representative of the UN Resident Coordinator; officials of NACOC; representatives of UPSA; development partners; community leaders; and other invited guests.

The research presentation was led by Dr. Adam Salifu from UPSA-RCC, supported by Dr. Timothy Avordeh, Dr. Samuel Arthur, and Dr. Andaratu A. Achuliwor. Professor Alexander Preko, Director of the Research and Consultancy Centre, UPSA, was also present.

The baseline study focused on young people aged 15 to 35 years in five suburbs of the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality: Madina, Teiman, West Adenta, Pantang, and Oyarifa. In all, 1,039 valid responses were analysed, providing an important evidence base for understanding the nature, scale, and drivers of youth substance use in the municipality.

The study revealed that 45.1 per cent of respondents had used a substance for non-medical or recreational purposes at some point in their lives. Madina emerged as the major hotspot, recording a lifetime prevalence rate of 73.5 per cent, compared with 30.5 per cent in Pantang, which recorded the lowest rate among the five suburbs.

Alcohol was identified as the most commonly used substance, with 40.8 per cent of respondents reporting use. Other substances included prescription medicines, cannabis, tobacco, shisha, tramadol, codeine-based products, inhalants, and energy drinks mixed with other substances.

The findings showed that substance use among young people was not evenly distributed across the municipality. Madina stood out as the highest-risk area, with the highest prevalence rate, highest perceived access to substances, and low peer-refusal capacity among young people. The report therefore recommended targeted interventions in high-risk communities rather than broad, uniform approaches.

The study also found that awareness of substance abuse was high, but awareness alone had not prevented use. About 94.9 per cent of respondents had heard about substance abuse, while 77 per cent had received some form of sensitisation. However, only 6.6 per cent of sensitised respondents had been reached through NACOC campaigns.

Schools were identified as the strongest channel for sensitisation, followed by radio, television, and social media. However, many out-of-school youth, unemployed young people, and apprentices may not be adequately reached through school-based prevention programmes, despite being among the most vulnerable groups.

Peer influence was identified as one of the strongest drivers of substance use. According to the study, 42.9 per cent of users were introduced to substances by friends. Qualitative responses also showed that young people use substances due to peer pressure, stress, unemployment, curiosity, weak family support, easy availability, and social media influence.

The report further revealed that the mean age of first substance use was 18.7 years, suggesting that prevention education must begin early and target both in-school and out-of-school youth.

Another major concern was relapse among young people who had attempted to stop using substances. The study showed that 84.5 per cent of those who tried to quit returned to use. The main relapse triggers were cravings, stress, peer pressure, family problems, and lack of structured support.

Although Pantang Hospital, a major mental health facility, is located within the municipality, the study found that very few young people accessed formal health facility or rehabilitation support, indicating gaps in referral systems, counselling, treatment, and community-based recovery support.

The report recommended that Madina be designated a priority intervention zone due to its high prevalence rate, easy access to substances, and low peer-refusal capacity. It further called for expanded sensitisation through radio, television, social media, and community platforms, especially in areas with low NACOC campaign coverage.

It also recommended moving beyond general awareness creation to include practical peer-refusal skills, life skills training, and youth-focused behavioural change education. Structured referral pathways linking young people to Pantang Hospital, counselling services, and rehabilitation programmes were also encouraged.

Other recommendations included targeted outreach to out-of-school youth, apprentices, and unemployed young people through markets, vocational centres, faith-based organisations, and community groups. The report also called for peer educator networks, pharmacy partnerships to address prescription medicine misuse, community-based cessation support groups, and family-based prevention programmes.

The study further recommended stronger engagement with religious and traditional leaders, improved supply-side controls in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority, and regular municipal surveys every two to three years to track progress and measure impact.

The research aligns strongly with the Sustainable Development Goals. It supports SDG 3 on good health and well-being, SDG 4 on quality education, SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, and SDG 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions.

The collaboration between UPSA-RCC and NACOC demonstrates the importance of university-led research in addressing pressing national development challenges. It also highlights how academic institutions, public agencies, health institutions, schools, communities, and development partners can work together to protect young people from substance abuse.

The study concluded that youth substance use in La Nkwantanang-Madina should not be treated only as an awareness issue, but as a public health, education, employment, family, and community safety challenge requiring targeted, sustained, and evidence-based interventions.

Through this baseline study, UPSA-RCC and NACOC have provided a clear evidence base to guide prevention, strengthen referral systems, support rehabilitation, and protect the future of young people in the municipality and beyond.

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The programme, being implemented by the Ministry of Health, aims to offer temporary overseas employment opportunities to health workers while ensuring they eventually return to strengthen Ghana’s health system.

Under the arrangement, the professionals will work on two to three-year contracts in Saint Kitts and Nevis before returning home.

Speaking at the Accra International Airport ahead of their departure, some of the health workers expressed excitement about the opportunity, saying they were eager to deliver quality care and represent Ghana well abroad.

They also thanked the government for creating the platform, describing it as a valuable career development opportunity.

Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, and Deputy Minister of Health, Grace Ayensu-Danquah, were at the airport to bid them farewell.

The Deputy Minister assured that the professionals will return after their service, adding that they will enjoy attractive remuneration packages, good working conditions, and other incentives.

She described the initiative as a “win-win” situation for both countries.

“This is not just about sending people out; it’s about creating opportunities for our health workers to gain international exposure, upgrade their skills, and eventually bring that knowledge back home,” she said.

The move is part of a broader managed migration strategy to help address unemployment among health professionals while preventing a massive brain drain from Ghana’s health sector.

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Speaking at a meeting between the leadership of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund and Regional Ministers at the Jubilee House, she said the success of the initiative would depend heavily on strong public awareness and collaboration at the regional and community levels.

She urged the Ministers to mobilise traditional authorities, local government institutions, healthcare providers and community leaders to support the implementation of the Trust Fund.

According to her, “The President has demonstrated remarkable foresight with this initiative as it has the potential to transform the lives of countless Ghanaians who are struggling to afford treatment for chronic illnesses.”

She further reminded the Regional Ministers that they have a responsibility to ensure that every Ghanaian understands what the Trust Fund stands for and how it can change lives.

Nana Oye Bampoe Addo said the Trust Fund reflects government’s commitment to ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent citizens from accessing specialised healthcare.

She expressed optimism that the planned regional stakeholder engagements would strengthen public confidence in the initiative and encourage greater national participation.

The high-level meeting, held at the Jubilee House, brought together the leadership of the Trust Fund and Regional Ministers to discuss strategies for ensuring the initiative reaches communities across the country.

Addressing the meeting, the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, emphasised the critical role Regional Ministers will play in promoting public understanding of the Fund.

She urged the Ministers to spearhead advocacy efforts in their respective regions by working closely with traditional authorities, religious leaders, local government officials, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations and the media.

According to her, sustained public education is essential to ensure that eligible patients are aware of and able to benefit from the intervention.

She explained that the upcoming regional engagements will focus on the Fund’s mandate of providing financial support to Ghanaians battling chronic and life-threatening non-communicable diseases.

Ms Darko-Opoku noted that the nationwide campaign forms part of the Trust Fund’s broader strategy to build partnerships and ensure that no Ghanaian is denied life-saving treatment due to financial hardship.

She expressed confidence that with the support of Regional Ministers and key stakeholders, the initiative would significantly improve access to specialised healthcare services across the country.

The operation targeted supermarkets, cosmetic shops, and retail outlets as part of efforts to protect consumers from the dangers of unregistered cosmetic products containing harmful substances such as hydroquinone and steroids.

The exercise, conducted by the FDA’s Regional Operations Directorate, led to the confiscation of thousands of products nationwide.

The exercise comes on the back of repeated warnings by the Authority against the use of cosmetic products containing hydroquinone and steroids, which can cause severe skin damage, discolouration, and other serious health complications if used for a long period.

The FDA reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health through sustained market surveillance and enforcement measures. It also urged consumers to purchase cosmetics only from licensed outlets and to verify the registration status of products before use.

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The Minister made the disclosure at a joint matriculation ceremony for specialised nursing students on Thursday, June 25.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at building the capacity of tutors to train more specialist nurses needed to address critical manpower gaps in the health sector.

“Our vision is to produce additional nurse specialists to fill the critical gaps within our healthcare system locally and also support the government’s managed migration policy,” he said.

Mr. Akandoh emphasised that the evolving healthcare landscape, driven by advances in medicine, technology and changing disease patterns, requires highly skilled professionals.

He noted that the scholarships form part of broader reforms in nursing education, including the shift to a competency-based curriculum.

“With the introduction of the competency-based curriculum for nursing education, we have secured over 30 scholarships for health tutors to pursue PhD programmes,” he added.

The initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of health training and ultimately enhance healthcare delivery across the country.

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Today, June 25, marks World Vitiligo Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about vitiligo, promote understanding of the condition, and support people living with it.

According to Dr. Opoku, vitiligo is an acquired condition that affects the skin and can occur in people with no family history of the disease. She noted that the condition may also be associated with other health conditions, including certain forms of anaemia.

It is characterized by patches of skin losing their natural colour, and any part of the body can be affected.

Dr. Opoku expressed concern about the stigma faced by people living with vitiligo, saying misconceptions about the condition often lead to social exclusion, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

She urged the public to understand that vitiligo is not contagious and encouraged individuals living with the condition to seek medical advice and psychosocial support when needed.

While vitiligo is not life-threatening, she stressed the importance of seeking help from medical professionals, particularly dermatologists from the Ghana Dermatology Association, as they can provide appropriate care and support for patients.

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For a very long-time tiger nuts have had a reputation as a natural food for improving male sexual performance, libido, fertility, and erectile function. They are commonly used in traditional remedies and are often included in drinks made with dates, coconut, or spices and marketed as natural aphrodisiacs.

But how much of this is supported by science? Before we answer this question, let’s look at the nutritional attributes of tiger nuts.

What makes Tiger Nuts nutritionally interesting?

Tiger nuts contain several nutrients that may support general health and, indirectly, aspects of reproductive health. They provide:

• Dietary fibre
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin C
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Zinc
• Healthy fats
• Plant compounds with antioxidant activity

These nutrients contribute to normal body functions including circulation, hormone production, and protection of cells from oxidative stress.

What does the research show?

Most of the excitement surrounding tiger nuts and male sexual health comes from animal studies rather than studies in humans.

Researchers have reported that male rats fed tiger nuts demonstrated increased sexual motivation, improved sexual performance, and higher testosterone levels compared with control animals. Some studies also observed improvements in antioxidant status and reproductive markers.

One study found that tiger nut supplementation increased testosterone concentrations and enhanced measures of sexual behaviour in male rats. Another reported improvements in hormone levels and antioxidant activity that may contribute to reproductive function. Animal studies have also suggested possible benefits for sperm production and testicular health.

These findings are interesting and provide a basis for further research. However, animal studies cannot automatically be assumed to apply to humans.

At present, there are no high-quality clinical trials showing that tiger nuts increase libido, improve erectile dysfunction, or boost testosterone levels in men. Thus ,the evidence in humans remains limited.

Could tiger nuts support sexual health indirectly?

Although direct evidence is lacking, tiger nuts contain nutrients that may support some of the systems involved in sexual function.

1. Supporting Healthy Blood Flow

An erection depends heavily on healthy blood vessels and adequate blood flow.

Tiger nuts contain healthy fats, minerals, and antioxidant compounds that may support cardiovascular health. Since erectile difficulties can sometimes be linked to poor circulation, foods that support heart health may also indirectly support sexual health.

2. Providing Antioxidants

Oxidative stress can damage cells throughout the body, including reproductive tissues.

Tiger nuts contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and plant compounds including quercetin. These nutrients help protect cells from oxidative damage and support overall health.

3. Contributing to Hormone Production

Minerals such as zinc and magnesium play important roles in many biological processes, including hormone metabolism.

Tiger nuts are not an exceptionally rich source compared with foods such as seafood, meat, legumes, seeds, and nuts, but they can contribute to overall nutrient intake as part of a balanced diet.

4. Supporting Fertility

Some animal studies have reported improvements in sperm production and reproductive markers following tiger nut supplementation. While these findings are encouraging, human studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

What about erectile dysfunction?

It is important to distinguish between libido and erectile dysfunction.

Libido refers to sexual desire, while erectile dysfunction refers to difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.

There is currently no scientific evidence that tiger nuts can cure erectile dysfunction. Men experiencing persistent erectile difficulties should seek medical assessment because erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an early warning sign of conditions such as:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal problems

Addressing these underlying conditions is likely to have a much greater impact on sexual health than relying on any single food.

The bottom line

Tiger nuts are a nutritious traditional food with an interesting history and promising early research.  They provide fibre, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats, all of which contribute to overall wellbeing. The current evidence suggests that tiger nuts may have potential benefits for male reproductive health, but most of the supporting research comes from animal studies. Human studies are still needed.

Written by Dr. Laurene Boateng (PhD, RD)
Dr. Laurene Boateng is a Registered Dietitian and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Dietetics, University of Ghana. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of Full Proof Nutrition, a Nutrition Consultancy committed to providing reliable, evidence-based, and practical healthy eating advice through its website www.fullproofnutrition.com.  Click here to join Full Proof Nutrition WhatsApp channel to receive more educative content. Send us a mail on fullproofnutrition@gmail.com. Grab a copy of my book on healthy eating – available now on Selar (Buy HEALTHY EATING MADE SIMPLE by Laurene Boateng on Selar) and Amazon (https://amzn.eu/d/6i9OeVb).

References

Allouh, M. Z., Daradka, H. M., & Abu Ghaida, J. H. (2015). Influence of Cyperus esculentus tubers (tiger nut) on male rat copulatory behavior. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 15(331). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-015-0841-8

Daka, I. R., Odinga, T., Lemii, B. C., Gabriel-Brisibe, C. U., Enebeli, S. K., Austin-Asomeji, I., & Edward, F. U. (2024). Male reproductive hormonal activity of synergistic ingestion of aqueous extract of Cyperus esculentus, Phoenix dactylifera and Cocos nucifera in male rat model. Asian Science Bulletin, 2(1), 60–73. https://doi.org/10.3923/asb.2024.60.73

Nwakanma, A. A., Ekong, M. B., Ngwuben, I. C., Idaguko, C. A., & Elemuo, C. O. (2022). Cyperus esculentus L. protects testis and sperm morphology of hyperglycaemic rats. European Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, 4(5), 1–14.

Osibemhe, M., Mohammed, B., & colleagues. (2024). Aphrodisiac potential of tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) powder on sexual behaviour in male albino rats. Sahel Journal of Life Sciences.

According to him, the presence of an FDA food hygiene permit indicated that the facility met the Authority’s food safety requirements and was safe for public patronage.

“The permit indicates that all workers who have direct contact with food have been medically certified, and that the food preparation processes have been assessed and found not to pose any potential danger to consumers,” he said.

Mr Ndego gave the advice in an interview with the Ghana News Agency after a one-day training programme for restaurant operators, “chop bar” owners and food vendors from across the region.

The routine training, organised by the FDA as part of its mandate to promote public health and safety, brought together stakeholders including officials of the Ghana National Fire Service.

“As part of the Authority’s mandate to ensure public health and safety, it is important that we equip our clients with current best practices in food safety and quality management,” Mr Ndego stated.

The course, he said, took participants through good hygiene practices, food safety standards and hazards that threaten food safety in the region.

Mr Ndego said the training provided participants with relevant knowledge and skills that would help improve hygiene standards in their food preparation areas.

He noted that participants were also educated on proper storage and stock rotation practices, including the application of the “First In, First Out” (FIFO) and “First Expiry, First Out” (FEFO) principles to ensure that ingredients and food additives used in food preparation complied with regulatory requirements.

The programme also provided an opportunity to the participants to interact with FDA officials, who addressed their concerns and encouraged them to continue adhering to good hygiene practices in their respective establishments.

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The doctor was “immediately admitted to a specialised facility” and is in a stable condition, the French health ministry said on Wednesday.

DR Congo announced an Ebola outbreak last month, but experts believe the virus had been circulating for weeks previously.

More than 260 people are confirmed to have died from the virus in the central African country, while 1,000 people have been infected.

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He described the development as a positive step toward addressing long-standing staffing shortages in underserved areas, while cautioning that many districts still lack adequate access to medical doctors.

Speaking at the 2026 Annual Conference of the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG) in Koforidua, Mr. Akandoh said attracting and retaining health professionals in rural communities remains one of the country’s major healthcare challenges.

“Unfortunately, there are still districts in Ghana without a single medical doctor. Sometimes leadership requires difficult decisions. Not every decision will be popular, but the long-term benefits make those decisions worthwhile,” he said.

The Minister explained that government has had to implement difficult but necessary policy measures to improve the distribution of health workers across the country.

He revealed that while only 12 doctors accepted postings to deprived areas in 2024, the figure has now risen to more than 100 in 2026, describing it as progress that still requires further improvement.

“In 2024, only 12 medical doctors accepted postings to deprived areas. This year, by the grace of God, more than 100 doctors have accepted postings. That is progress, but we still have more work to do,” he added.

Despite the improvement, Mr. Akandoh acknowledged that staffing gaps continue to hinder efforts to achieve equitable healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

He commended CHAG for its consistent service delivery in remote parts of the country, where access to healthcare remains limited.

“What excites me most is CHAG’s presence in the most remote parts of Ghana—where the roads end, where network coverage is weak, and where health services are needed the most,” he noted.

According to him, CHAG’s operations highlight the importance of deploying and retaining health workers in underserved areas as part of efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

Mr. Akandoh further stated that the government’s newly launched Free Primary Healthcare programme will depend not only on infrastructure and equipment but also on the availability of skilled health professionals willing to serve nationwide.

He explained that the programme will strengthen preventive healthcare by deploying health workers into communities to conduct routine screenings for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, offer health education, and ensure early detection and treatment of diseases.

The Minister also urged healthcare professionals, particularly those under CHAG, to continue delivering care with dignity, compassion, and commitment.

“Last year, when I attended this conference, I challenged you to continue treating patients with dignity, respect and compassion. I repeat that call today. That is where CHAG has a comparative advantage,” he said.

He paid tribute to health workers across the country, noting that nearly 39 million patient visits were recorded at health facilities in 2025.

“Behind those statistics are real people whose lives have been touched by your dedication and sacrifice,” he added.

Mr. Akandoh assured health professionals that government remains committed to improving working conditions and strengthening staffing levels in deprived communities to enhance healthcare delivery nationwide.

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The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as MahamaCares, was launched in May 2025 to support the treatment of non-communicable diseases such as kidney failure, cancer, and other chronic conditions.

The Fund depends on support from government, corporate organisations, and individual contributions. Government has already committed GH¢6 million to the initiative. To sustain and expand its impact, the Fund is strengthening ties with Multimedia Group Limited as a key partner in driving public education and awareness.

Administrator of the Fund, Obuobia Darko Opoku, expressed concern over the limited public understanding of MahamaCares. She explained that the Fund is not only meant to cover medical expenses but also to help provide the necessary medical equipment and facilities needed to manage such diseases.

According to her, this makes public education and awareness crucial, hence the decision to partner with Multimedia Group.

Chief Operating Officer of Multimedia Group, Ken Ansah, welcomed the initiative and commended the establishment of the Fund. He also pledged the company’s support to help make MahamaCares a success.

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The partnership was discussed during a meeting between the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Adjoa Obuobia Darko Opoku, and the Director-General of GBC, Prof. Amin Alhassan, together with members of their respective leadership teams.

The engagement forms part of the Trust Fund’s broader efforts to ensure that information on healthcare support and specialised medical services reaches communities across the country.

According to the Trust Fund, GBC’s extensive reach through six television channels, 17 FM stations, and programming delivered in 27 Ghanaian languages makes it a key partner in disseminating information on non-communicable diseases and available support mechanisms.

The collaboration is expected to improve public understanding of specialised healthcare challenges and the role of the Trust Fund in supporting affected individuals and families.

During the discussions, Prof. Alhassan pledged GBC’s support for the initiative, reaffirming the broadcaster’s commitment to making vital healthcare information accessible to citizens nationwide.

The Trust Fund noted that partnerships with national institutions such as GBC will be crucial in expanding access to specialised care and ensuring that no community is left behind in efforts to improve healthcare awareness and support services in Ghana.

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The groundbreaking procedures were performed with support from visiting Indian cardiac surgeon Dr. Shridhar Padagatti, introducing a new and advanced approach to coronary artery bypass surgery at the Centre.

The achievement marks a significant step forward in the Centre’s efforts to expand access to specialised cardiac care and strengthen its position as a leading heart treatment facility in the region.

Unlike conventional bypass surgery, the OPCAB technique is performed on a beating heart without the use of a heart-lung machine. Medical experts say the procedure can offer selected patients several benefits, including reduced complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

The successful surgeries were carried out under the leadership of the Director of the Centre, Dr. Kow Entsua-Mensah, and involved a multidisciplinary team of cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, anaesthetists, perfusionists, nurses and theatre staff.

Management of the Centre described the development as a testament to its commitment to clinical excellence, innovation and the delivery of world-class cardiac services.

The introduction of the OPCAB procedure is expected to enhance the Centre’s coronary surgery programme and provide patients in Ghana with access to cutting-edge treatment options that were previously limited.

The Centre congratulated the surgical and clinical teams involved in the procedures and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing cardiovascular healthcare and expanding access to advanced cardiac services for patients across Ghana and beyond.

But across Ghana, a growing number of men are challenging these stereotypes and proving that passion, skill, and determination matter more than societal expectations.

For men like Richmond Ofori Perry and Hajj Leleele, their journeys are not merely about breaking gender norms.

They are about pursuing their passions, earning a living, and providing for their families despite the criticism and misconceptions that often come with working in female-dominated fields.

While society has become more accepting of men in industries such as beauty, cosmetics, and makeup artistry, questions remain.

Has the narrative completely changed? Do people still judge men who venture into traditionally female professions? And how do their families and partners cope with public perceptions?

Building a Business Beyond Stereotypes

Richmond Ofori Perry, Chief Executive Officer of Perry’s Glamour Care, says entering the beauty and cosmetics industry was a natural decision.

“It wasn’t a difficult choice of line of work for me. I started the business with my mother. I learnt business at a very young age and used to run errands for her in her shop,” he explains.

Today, Perry’s Glamour Care specializes in skincare products, hair products, cosmetics, and other beauty essentials. Despite operating in a sector largely associated with women, Perry says he has never allowed public opinion to distract him from his goals.

“I am unperturbed by people’s opinions. I focus on my business and don’t react to negative comments. I constantly research products before recommending them because I want people to look good and feel confident.”

According to him, acceptance of men in the beauty industry is gradually improving as more men join the profession and demonstrate their expertise.

“Society is learning to accept us. It’s not about gender; it’s about passion. Everyone has the freedom to pursue the business they love. I don’t challenge people directly. I simply try to prove that I know what I’m doing.”

Interestingly, Perry believes his uniqueness in the industry sometimes works to his advantage.

“Some people like to buy from me because of my personality and because they rarely see men in this line of work.”

Through the challenges and occasional criticism, one thing has kept him going.

“I always have it at the back of my mind never to give up. What people say doesn’t get to me.”

Turning a Gift into a Career

For renowned makeup artist Hajj Leleele, the journey into makeup artistry happened almost by accident.

“I didn’t really set out to learn makeup artistry. I think it’s God’s gift to me,” he says.

What began as a hobby making up children in his neighborhood eventually developed into a profession. Determined to improve his skills, he sought professional training and transformed his talent into a thriving business.

His first major assignment, however, came with anxiety.

“I was really skeptical when I went to make up my first bride, but it went well. After that, I started getting more clients.”

Today, Leleele’s work extends beyond bridal makeup. Through content creation and training programs, he has expanded his brand and now mentors aspiring makeup artists.

Despite his success, he admits that societal judgment remains a reality.

“Sometimes when you go to dress a bride, some people will be giving you looks. Some even approach you to question what you’re doing, but I try as much as possible to ignore them and focus on my job.”

The criticism is not limited to face-to-face encounters. Social media, he says, can be particularly harsh.

“I’ve seen some hurtful comments online. Some people even question my marriage. But this is the job that feeds me and helps me take care of my family.”

For Leleele, passion remains the driving force behind his persistence.

“It has helped me in several ways and it’s a job I’m passionate about.”

Redefining Success

As traditional gender roles continue to evolve, men like Richmond Ofori Perry and Hajj Leleele are demonstrating that success is not confined by societal expectations.

Their stories reflect resilience, determination, and a willingness to pursue opportunities in spaces where they may be considered unconventional. While stereotypes have not completely disappeared, their achievements suggest that society is gradually shifting toward valuing competence and passion over gender labels.

In a world where barriers are constantly being challenged, these men are not only making a living; they are redefining what is possible and inspiring others to pursue careers based on their talents rather than society’s expectations.

He made the call on the sidelines of the World Sickle Cell Day commemoration held at the Great Hall of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

Mr. Andoh urged the government, through the Ministry of Education, to integrate sickle cell education into the national curriculum to equip young Ghanaians with the knowledge they need before starting families.

According to him, the curriculum should include lessons on genotype education, carrier status, and the science of inheritance, as well as modules aimed at addressing discrimination against people living with the condition.

He stressed that education remains the most effective and sustainable way to prevent future cases and reduce stigma.

“Sickle cell is hereditary, yet many students complete school without knowing their genotype or understanding the risks. If we teach this in basic and senior high schools, we can prevent future cases and reduce stigma. Education is the cheapest and most sustainable prevention tool we have,” he said.

Mr. Andoh noted that although medical advancements such as bone marrow transplants and gene therapy offer hope for a cure, prevention through education remains Ghana’s most immediate and cost-effective solution.

“If every Ghanaian knows their genotype before marriage, we can dramatically reduce the number of children born with sickle cell disease within one generation. The long-term goal is a cure, but today the fastest tool we have is knowledge,” he added.

He further urged parents, religious leaders, community groups, and the media to support screening and awareness campaigns beyond annual commemorations.

Speaking at the event, Professor Christian Agyare, Provost of the College of Health Sciences at KNUST, also urged Ghanaians, particularly those yet to marry, to know their genotype as a preventive measure.

He explained that genotype testing before marriage and pregnancy remains the most effective way to reduce new cases.

Prof. Agyare noted that when both partners are carriers, there is a 25 per cent chance in every pregnancy of giving birth to a child with sickle cell disease.

“This is not about stopping people from marrying who they love. It is about making informed choices with full knowledge of the health implications for your children. A simple blood test today can save a family years of pain, medical bills, and emotional stress tomorrow,” he said.

He added that KNUST’s College of Health Sciences stands ready to support public education and community screening efforts across the country.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee and Member of Parliament for Nabdam, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, expressed optimism that Ghana is gradually moving towards fully free treatment for sickle cell disease under broader healthcare reforms.

He described sickle cell disease as a major public health challenge in Ghana, estimating that one in every 60 births is likely to be affected.

Dr. Nawaane said the major challenge is not only the prevalence of the disease but also the high cost of diagnosis, medication, and long-term care.

He disclosed that government interventions are underway to improve early detection and treatment through stronger primary healthcare systems.

He further revealed that complications related to sickle cell disease, including kidney failure, stroke, and surgical conditions, will be covered under the government’s emerging “Mahama Care” initiative.

According to him, this would significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients and improve access to specialised care.

World Sickle Cell Day is observed globally on June 19 to raise awareness about the condition and advocate for improved care and support for patients.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects red blood cells, often causing episodes of severe pain, infections, and organ damage.

In Ghana, an estimated 2 per cent of children are born with the condition each year, while about 25 per cent of the population are carriers.

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Speaking during the second edition of the Loud and Green XSpace, organised by JoyNews and Beyond the Science (BTS) under the theme “Beyond Awareness: What’s Stopping Ghana from Fixing its Plastic Waste Menace?”, Dr. Kwawu shared findings from her PhD research on microplastic pollution in the Odaw River.

According to her, plastic waste dumped on the streets of Accra eventually finds its way into the Odaw River through drainage systems, where it gradually breaks down into microscopic particles.

“There’s plastic almost everywhere in the river,” she said.

Her research traced plastic contamination from the river’s source near Abokobi through Haatso and Achimota to the Korle Lagoon, where many of the microplastic particles accumulate before eventually reaching the sea.

Dr. Kwawu explained that larger plastic items fragment over time into microplastics, some as small as a watermelon seed, which remain in the environment for long periods.

She warned that these particles are capable of carrying other harmful pollutants through aquatic ecosystems.

“These microplastics are able to carry along other pollutants like heavy metals,” she said. “The heavy metals stick onto the microplastics and they are transported into our seas.”

The environmental scientist noted that microfibres from textiles were among the most common forms of microplastics found in the river.

She also observed that while many Ghanaians are aware of plastic waste, public understanding of microplastics and their health impacts remains limited.

“We found that people are aware of plastics, but not so much microplastics and the impacts they have on our bodies,” she said.

Dr. Kwawu stressed that although microplastics are largely invisible, they pose serious environmental and public health concerns.

“The key message from my PhD is that microplastics are very small, but they do have impacts on our ecosystems, our livelihoods and our health,” she said.

Her findings add to growing concerns about pollution in the Odaw River, which drains more than 80 per cent of Accra before flowing into the Korle Lagoon and ultimately the Gulf of Guinea.

She concluded with a stark warning: “Plastic pollution does not disappear. It only changes form.”

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Dr Pascal Kingsley Mwin, Technical Officer at the WHO Ghana Country Office, said despite growing policy commitments and health sector reforms, sickle cell disease remained a major public health challenge requiring sustained national attention.

Speaking at the Third Annual Sickle Cell Conference in Accra to mark the World Sickle Cell Day 2026, Dr Mwin noted that the disease continued to place a significant burden on individuals, families, health systems, and national development, particularly across sub-Saharan Africa.

“In Ghana, where approximately 18,000 children are born with sickle cell disease annually, the condition remains a major public health concern requiring sustained attention and investment,” he said.

He noted that the disease should not be viewed solely as a clinical issue but also as a health systems, equity and development concern.

“The ability of an individual living with sickle cell disease to access timely diagnosis, comprehensive care and appropriate treatment should not be determined by where they live or their socioeconomic circumstances,” he added.

Dr Mwin commended the International Sickle Cell Centre and its partners for organising the conference, describing it as a demonstration of leadership and collaboration needed to advance the national response to the disease.

He said Ghana had shown increasing commitment to addressing the disease through the implementation of the National Sickle Cell Disease Strategy and the development of harmonized national guidelines for screening and case management.

Effective implementation of the guidelines, he said, would improve quality of care, reduce variations in clinical practice and contribute to better patient outcomes nationwide.

The WHO officer highlighted the organisation’s support for Ghana through the PENPLUS initiative, a package of essential services targeting severe chronic noncommunicable diseases, including sickle cell disease, Type 1 diabetes and rheumatic heart disease.

He disclosed that WHO was currently supporting the Ghana Health Service to develop a national PENPLUS operational plan aimed at scaling up specialised services across the country.

“Building on experiences from the initial implementation in two sites, Ghana is preparing to expand PENPLUS services to four additional facilities and strengthen the capacity of health workers to provide specialised care closer to communities,” he said.

Dr Mwin also welcomed Ghana’s recently launched Free Primary Healthcare Initiative, describing it as a major opportunity to improve equitable access to essential health services and advance progress towards Universal Health Coverage.

He noted that the initiative could strengthen early diagnosis, continuity of care, referral systems and long-term disease management for people living with sickle cell disease.

Despite the progress made, he said many patients continued to face delayed diagnosis, limited access to comprehensive care and barriers to specialized services.

He identified workforce shortages, weak surveillance systems, inadequate patient registries, inconsistent availability of essential medicines and financing constraints as key challenges affecting service delivery.

Dr Mwin emphasised that evidence-based interventions capable of significantly reducing illness and deaths from sickle cell disease were already known and available.

“We know that early diagnosis saves lives. We know that newborn screening programmes improve outcomes. We know that access to comprehensive care, hydroxyurea, vaccination, infection prevention, patient education and strong referral systems significantly reduce morbidity and mortality,” he stated.

He called for those proven interventions to reach every person in need regardless of location or financial status.

Dr Mwin urged collective action to expand newborn screening and early diagnosis programmes; improving equitable access to comprehensive care and essential medicines; strengthening surveillance systems and patient registries.

He also called for the need to invest in research, innovation, and digital health technologies; and enhancing partnerships while ensuring that persons living with sickle cell disease remain at the centre of policy and programme design.

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The call was made by the Director of Metro Health at the AMA, Dr Louisa Ademki Matey, in a statement to mark World Sickle Cell Day during a meeting of the Metropolitan Planning Coordinating Unit.

Dr Matey described sickle cell disease as a major public health concern that continues to affect individuals, families and the healthcare system, stressing the need for sustained education, early detection and proper management of the condition.

She explained that sickle cell disease is an inherited genetic disorder present from birth and emphasised the importance of understanding one’s genotype to make informed decisions about marriage, childbirth and family planning.

According to her, individuals with SS and SC genotypes have sickle cell disease, while AS and AC indicate carrier status.

Dr Matey noted that understanding genotype compatibility can significantly reduce the likelihood of children being born with sickle cell disease and help families avoid the emotional, financial and health challenges often associated with the condition.

She stressed that early screening allows people to know their genotype status before making major family decisions and gives them the opportunity to seek professional medical guidance where necessary.

The Metro Health Director further highlighted the importance of continuous public education and awareness campaigns in reducing the prevalence of the disease and improving outcomes for those living with the condition.

She noted that advances in healthcare have improved the quality of life for many sickle cell patients through better access to treatment and management services.

Dr Matey therefore encouraged individuals living with sickle cell disease, as well as parents and caregivers of affected children, to regularly visit designated sickle cell clinics across Accra for medical reviews, counselling and treatment.

She also urged patients to strictly adhere to medical advice on medication, nutrition and routine healthcare to minimise complications and improve their overall wellbeing.

The Minister disclosed this in a Facebook post, stating that the tour began with a radio programme aimed at educating residents on the government’s flagship healthcare policy.

“This morning, I commenced my Central Regional working tour on President John Dramani Mahama’s #FreePrimaryHealthCare initiative with a radio sensitisation programme broadcast on GBC Radio Central and seven other stations across the region,” he stated.

According to Mr Akandoh, the radio engagement forms part of efforts to increase public awareness and understanding of the initiative, which seeks to improve access to primary healthcare services across the country.

The Minister noted that the sensitisation programme was aired simultaneously on GBC Radio Central and seven other radio stations in the region to ensure wider reach and participation.

The Free Primary Healthcare initiative is one of the key social intervention programmes being pursued by the Mahama administration to strengthen healthcare delivery and make essential health services more accessible to citizens.

Mr Akandoh is expected to engage health professionals, local authorities, and residents during the regional tour as part of efforts to promote the implementation of the initiative and gather feedback from stakeholders.

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Single life appears to be an option to the challenges of life.

Single life is on the increase everywhere and across social groups. In fact, globally, the proportion of those living single lives has doubled over the last 20 years.

This is particularly worrying in Ghana, where marriage is seen as a sacred duty and the focus of life.

Why single life?

Many are single due to circumstances beyond their control. The cost of living is high and many cannot afford marriage rites, accommodation, and family care.

Some are single out of convenience. They put careers and other things ahead of marriage. For them, all that matters is cash.

Some have endured painful relationships and have become afraid of future failures. Some are selfish. They have worked for their money and would not allow anyone to share or possibly take over what they have earned.

Some have inborn problems. They are trapped in the wrong bodies and seek love from people of the same sex. Others have emotional problems that make it hard for them to desire sex or relate to the opposite sex.

Some claim they don’t meet suitable lovers. They are selective and draw tough conditions for suitable partners. They simply have a poor understanding of marriage.

Why does single life appear good

You have freedom and independence. You need not make mutual decisions or put up with behaviours you find unacceptable. You can, therefore, stabilise your emotions.

You have the opportunity to utilise your talents and skills fully. This may explain why most very successful women are single.

Today, people claim they can get sex, children, domestic care, financial support, and everything marriage offers without marrying.

If they can get free milk, they will not buy a cow and worry about its maintenance.

Why is single life bad?

Single life has loneliness. In fact, the only thing God said was not good in His creation was loneliness. It is, therefore, not good for man to be alone.

There are things only a man can do best,, and there are some things a woman can do best. A man is expected to use his abilities to cover a woman and a woman to cover a man, for an enhanced quality of life.

Completeness and self-sufficiency will, therefore, always remain a myth.

Single life lacks emotional support. The thought that you are one flesh with another gives great mental stability.

On the other hand, single life reduces commitment and makes you self-centred.

Single life gives a bad social image. In Ghana, every adult is expected to marry, and those who don’t are seen as irresponsible and not worthy of social recognition.

Sugya ni”, the Akan phrase for a bachelor, means a man who fetches fire for cooking. Cooking is traditionally reserved for women, and “Sugya ni” does not earn much respect.

What to do

If you are single, desire to marry. Nothing will come to you except what you put in your mind.

Fortunately, there has never been a lack of relationships, and studies show that people can find partners more easily than they think.

Love yourself and have self-confidence. Go out very often and do everything with passion. Love all who come to you and smile to let people know you are easy to get along with. 

Don’t cling to yourself or act desperate. Don’t look for love. Love will find you as you live your life to the fullest.

If you are married, make every effort to stay married. Remember that every marriage has its moments of difficulty. The fact that you have problems does not mean there is something wrong with your marriage. 

You are only being human. Angels don’t marry; it is, therefore, impossible to have a trouble-free marriage. You only need to keep working on your marriage to make it work. 

Never make divorce an option. It has never been a solution but a problem. Every marriage can be restored.

Single life can never be fashionable. Human beings were made for relationships. God has made marriage a permanent feature of all human society because of its amazing benefits. Married couples are emotionally and physically healthier. 

They live longer and have higher levels of happiness. Married couples have greater wealth because sharing creates wealth.

It’s God’s desire that you marry, except when you dedicate yourself in a special way to serve God and humanity. Never stay out of marriage out of resentment, fear, selfishness, or inordinate ambition. A man will always need a woman. 

A woman will always need a man. Two are always better than one. God says he who finds a wife finds a good thing and receives favour from Him.

God says it is not good to be alone. Believe Him. So say no to single life. It is only marriage that will give true love, a stronger family, and a happy nation.

The exercise will provide free medication for onchocerciasis (river blindness), lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) and schistosomiasis (bilharzia) in affected communities across the country.

Speaking at a media briefing in Accra, Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director General, GHS, said the campaign formed part of Ghana’s strategy to eliminate NTDs as a public health threat by 2030 and sustain gains made in disease control over the years.

He said the campaign would cover 86 onchocerciasis-endemic districts in 15 regions, while about 266,000 people in two elephantiasis-endemic districts would receive treatment.

Community deworming against schistosomiasis would also be carried out in 13 districts across eight regions.

Dr. Akoriyea said except for children under five years, pregnant women and individuals who had previously experienced severe reactions to the medicines, all eligible persons in targeted communities are expected to participate in the exercise.

“Mass Drug Administration remains one of the most effective interventions for controlling and eliminating neglected tropical diseases. The medicines have been recommended by the World Health Organization and are safe, effective and essential in protecting communities from river blindness, elephantiasis and bilharzia,” he said.

He urged residents in affected communities to cooperate with health workers and adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen.

“Please take the medicines as directed and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can protect our communities, improve health outcomes and eliminate these diseases from Ghana,” he said.

The NTD Programme Manager, GHS, Dr. Joseph Larbi Opare, said Ghana had made remarkable progress in the fight against neglected tropical diseases and remained on track to achieve the World Health Organization’s 2030 elimination targets.

He said the transmission of lymphatic filariasis had been interrupted in 114 of the country’s 117 endemic districts, leaving only three districts yet to attain elimination status.

Dr. Opare said the number of onchocerciasis-endemic districts had reduced significantly over the years, while schistosomiasis was nearing elimination in several areas.

He highlighted Ghana’s achievements in eliminating other neglected tropical diseases, noting that the country was certified free of guinea worm disease in 2015, eliminated trachoma as a public health problem in 2018, and successfully eliminated human African trypanosomiasis, commonly known as sleeping sickness, as a public health problem in 2023.

“We are making steady progress and remain hopeful of achieving our elimination targets by 2030,” he said.

Mr Solomon Ananya NTD Project Manager for World Vision Ghana, expressed concern over declining donor support for NTD programmes and called for increased domestic financing to sustain elimination efforts.

“The funding landscape is changing, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to secure resources for NTD programmes. We appeal to the Government to increase domestic investment in the fight against these diseases,” he said.

Mr. Ananya said efforts were underway to establish a National NTD Fund to mobilize resources from government institutions, private sector organizations, banks, telecommunications companies and other corporate bodies through their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

He expressed optimism that the fund would help bridge emerging financing gaps and sustain Ghana’s progress towards eliminating neglected tropical diseases.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of preventable and treatable infectious diseases that primarily affect impoverished and underserved communities, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

They are caused by a variety of parasites, bacteria and viruses and can lead to severe disability, chronic illness, disfigurement and social stigma if left untreated.

Onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, is transmitted through the bites of infected black-flies and can cause severe itching, skin disease and permanent blindness.

Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, damages the lymphatic system and can result in painful swelling of the limbs and other parts of the body.

Schistosomiasis, or bilharzia, is caused by parasitic worms found in contaminated freshwater and can affect the urinary tract, intestines and other organs.

According to the World Health Organization, more than one billion people worldwide are affected by neglected tropical diseases, making them a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

It says mass drug administration remains one of the key strategies for preventing transmission and achieving elimination targets.

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Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, June 18, as part of activities marking World Sickle Cell Day, Mr Acquah called for intensified public education, screening, and support services to help address the disease.

He described sickle cell disease as a devastating genetic condition that continues to affect the health and livelihoods of many individuals and families across the country.

“Sickle cell disease is a catastrophic genetic blood disorder that kills, maims, and impoverishes affected individuals and families,” he stated.

According to him, the high number of carriers in the population underscores the importance of awareness and early screening, particularly among couples and prospective parents.

“About eight million Ghanaians are carriers of an abnormal haemoglobin gene called the sickle cell gene. Here on the floor of Parliament, every fourth person may be a carrier with the potential of passing the gene to our unborn children,” he said.

Mr Acquah further disclosed that approximately two out of every 100 babies born in Ghana are diagnosed with sickle cell disease.

The legislator stressed the need for greater national attention to the condition, noting that early detection and proper management can significantly improve the quality of life of affected persons.

He called on government, healthcare institutions, civil society organisations, and the public to work together to strengthen education and screening programmes as part of efforts to reduce the prevalence and impact of the disease in Ghana.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects the shape and function of red blood cells, often leading to severe pain crises, chronic anaemia, increased susceptibility to infections, and other potentially life-threatening complications.

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The Presiding Member of the Ho West District Assembly, Kasim Osman Adamu, believes local vaccine production could become a game-changer in restoring confidence in vaccination programmes and encouraging wider public acceptance of life-saving immunisation interventions.

His comments come as Ghana intensifies efforts to produce its first locally manufactured vaccine by the first quarter of 2027 through a partnership involving the Ghana National Vaccine Institute (GNVI), the World Health Organization (WHO), local pharmaceutical companies, and development partners under the PharmaVax Ghana Programme.

According to Hon. Adamu, although imported vaccines have played a critical role in protecting Ghanaians against infectious diseases over the years, many citizens continue to harbour doubts about products developed and manufactured outside the country.

He noted that public mistrust, fuelled by misinformation and conspiracy theories, remains one of the biggest obstacles to vaccine acceptance in many communities.

“Many people have confidence in our healthcare professionals, scientists and researchers. When vaccines are produced here in Ghana, people will be more assured that adequate research, testing and quality checks have been carried out before they are administered to the public,” he said in an interview.

The Ho West Presiding Member observed that while vaccine hesitancy is a global challenge, concerns among some Ghanaians often stem from misconceptions about the intentions behind vaccines imported from foreign countries.

He said narratives suggesting that certain vaccines are designed to harm Africans or reduce fertility rates continue to circulate in some communities despite the absence of scientific evidence to support such claims.

“Some people discourage others from taking vaccines because they do not trust products that come from outside the country. These misconceptions continue to influence public attitudes and affect vaccine uptake,” he explained.

Hon. Adamu argued that local vaccine manufacturing could help address such concerns by giving citizens a greater sense of ownership and confidence in the country’s healthcare interventions.

He further stated that Ghana possesses the human resource capacity needed to undertake vaccine research, development and production, citing the country’s highly trained healthcare professionals and scientists.

According to him, the move towards vaccine sovereignty represents a significant opportunity for Ghana to strengthen its healthcare system, reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and improve national preparedness for future disease outbreaks and health emergencies.

Beyond local production, Hon. Adamu stressed the need for sustained public education and community engagement to address fears and misinformation that often accompany vaccination campaigns.

He observed that rumours tend to flourish when people are not adequately informed about the purpose, safety, and benefits of vaccines.

“The major challenge is that enough education is sometimes not provided before vaccines are introduced into communities. When people do not fully understand why a vaccine is being administered, misinformation spreads easily,” he noted.

The Presiding Member called on health authorities, community leaders, and the media to intensify sensitisation efforts and ensure that accurate information reaches the public before and during vaccine rollouts.

He particularly highlighted the role of healthcare professionals as trusted sources of information capable of helping citizens make informed decisions.

“If anyone wants clarification on vaccines, the first point of contact should be a health worker because they have the expertise and knowledge to provide the right information,” he said.

Hon. Adamu also praised the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) for its regulatory oversight role and expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to ensure that any vaccines produced locally meet internationally accepted safety and quality standards.

He noted that the FDA’s stringent approval and monitoring processes provide an additional layer of assurance for the public.

While acknowledging the progress made in expanding vaccine access across the country through community outreach programmes and household visits by healthcare workers, he maintained that trust remains the missing link in achieving optimal vaccine coverage.

He therefore urged government and stakeholders involved in the local vaccine manufacturing agenda to remain committed to the initiative despite potential challenges.

According to him, the combination of local production, effective regulation, and continuous public education could significantly improve public confidence in vaccines and strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system.

“I want to encourage government and all agencies involved to continue their efforts. With education, community engagement and sensitisation, our people will accept locally manufactured vaccines and support their use,” he stated.

As Ghana moves closer to producing its first home-grown vaccine, Hon. Adamu believes the initiative has the potential to become a landmark achievement in the country’s public health history—one that not only reduces dependence on imports but also helps rebuild public trust in vaccines at a time when misinformation remains a growing threat to health interventions worldwide.

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