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GHS: Gated compounds hinder vaccination coverage in National Polio Campaign.

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The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has urged residents of gated communities to permit healthcare workers to access their homes and vaccinate children under five, to boost polio vaccination coverage.


The Service said that it was crucial for healthcare workers to access gated communities, as over 1,000 children missed the first round of the national polio vaccination campaign due to restricted access.


Dr. Kwame Amponsa-Achiano, Programme Manager of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), made this call during the launch of the second round of the National Oral Polio Vaccine Type 2 (NOPV2) vaccination campaign in Accra.


The campaign, on the theme, “Help Kick Polio Out of Ghana,” aims to protect children under five years old from polio by ensuring they receive the vaccine.


Dr. Achiano, also the Deputy Director and Head of the Disease Control & Prevention Department at the GHS, explained that gated communities, commonly found in urban areas, often posed challenges for healthcare workers in reaching children for vaccination.


“And so, we are requesting that they make the children available. Even if they will not allow us to enter, we do not have a problem, but they should allow us to vaccinate the children,” he said.


The second round of the National Polio Vaccination Campaign, scheduled for November 21-24, 2024, aims to vaccinate approximately 7.2 million children under five nationwide.


The initiative seeks to prevent the transmission of the Type 2 Poliovirus variant, enhance disease surveillance, and avert a polio outbreak.


This campaign follows the detection of a polio variant in September at the Koforidua Environmental Surveillance site.


Dr. Achiano said that children who received the first dose of the polio vaccine would also receive the second dose, and those who missed the first round still had the opportunity to get at least one dose.


He urged private schools to cooperate by making children under five years old available to healthcare workers during vaccination visits to ensure the campaign’s success.


Dr. Frankline Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health, representing the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), stressed the significance of the second round of the campaign.


He said it would ensure every child under five receives two oral doses of the vaccine, contributing to both individual protection and the nation’s overall health.


Dr. Raymond Dankoli, Coordinator of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) and Officer-in-Charge at the World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana, said polio remained a threat in several countries.


He noted that achieving a vaccination coverage of at least 95 per cent in Ghana would not only protect individual children but also strengthen community immunity, contributing to the global effort to eradicate polio.


Dr. Dankoli encouraged parents and caregivers to take advantage of the campaign and ensure their children are vaccinated.


Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a highly infectious disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and can lead to paralysis within hours.


According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus is transmitted from person to person, primarily through the faecal-oral route, though it can also spread through contaminated water or food.


Once in the body, the virus multiplies in the intestines and can invade the nervous system, potentially causing paralysis.


In 1988, the World Health Assembly adopted a resolution to eradicate polio globally, marking the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).


Since then, wild poliovirus cases have dropped by more than 99 per cent, from 350,000 cases in over 125 endemic countries to just six reported cases in 2021.

Canadian Murder Case: Court to empanel jurors on December 17.

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An Accra High Court has scheduled December 17, 2024, to empanel jurors for the trial of Safina Mohammed Adziatu, the student accused of murdering her Canadian boyfriend. 


The case surfaced when Safina appeared before a new judge, Justice Kizita Naa Koowah Quarshie. 


Currently out on bail, Safina faces a murder charge for allegedly killing Frank Kofi Osei, a Ghanaian resident in Canada, during his visit to her home at Ashalley Botwe near Accra in July 2022. 

Trump confirms he will deploy the military for mass deportation plan.

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President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed his intention to declare a national emergency to address border security and utilize the US military to execute a sweeping deportation initiative targeting undocumented migrants.

Immigration, a central theme of Trump’s campaign, is set to dominate his return to the White House. The former president has vowed to deport millions of undocumented immigrants and secure the southern border with Mexico, citing a surge in illegal crossings during President Joe Biden’s tenure.

Taking to his platform, Truth Social, Trump shared a post from a conservative activist, which claimed the president-elect was “ready to declare a national emergency and deploy military resources to reverse the Biden administration’s immigration policies through mass deportation.” Trump simply added, “True!” to the repost.

The announcement comes as Trump prepares to return to the Oval Office following his November 5 election victory over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. He has begun naming key figures to his administration, including immigration hardliner Tom Homan, who will serve as the “border czar.”

Homan, a former acting chief of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has long been an advocate for stricter immigration policies and recently urged undocumented migrants to “start packing now.”

The proposed deportation plan could affect millions of families across the United States. Authorities estimate there are approximately 11 million undocumented individuals in the country, with Trump’s sweeping policies expected to impact over 20 million people indirectly.

While border security has been a persistent challenge for successive administrations, Trump’s rhetoric has intensified concerns. Throughout his campaign, he described an ongoing “invasion” of migrants and used provocative language to allege that undocumented immigrants posed a threat to American society.

He also signaled plans to invoke the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a move critics say is outdated and reminiscent of controversial policies such as Japanese-American internment during World War II.

Trump has yet to detail the full scope of his immigration agenda but has made clear his intention to act swiftly. His remarks come as border patrol encounters have stabilized, mirroring 2020 levels after peaking at 250,000 in December 2023 — the highest monthly figure on record.

As Trump assembles his cabinet, his hardline stance on immigration signals that border policy will remain a focal point of his administration, reigniting debates on how to manage America’s complex immigration challenges effectively and humanely.

Jerry Afriyie’s first Black Stars goal earns Otto Addo’s emotional celebration.

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One of the rare bright spots in Ghana’s disappointing defeat to Niger on Monday was the debut goal from 17-year-old Jerry Afriyie, a moment so emotional it saw coach Otto Addo breach touchline rules to celebrate with the youngster.

Afriyie, who came on as a substitute, scored Ghana’s only goal in the 2-1 loss, bringing a brief moment of hope to the Accra Sports Stadium. Unable to contain his emotions, Addo sprinted onto the field, hugging the young striker and offering a pat on the back. The celebration, though against regulations, highlighted the coach’s faith in the teenager’s potential.

The goal marked another milestone in an extraordinary year for Afriyie, who was instrumental in Ghana’s gold medal win at the African Games and claimed the golden boot at the WAFU B U-20 Championship. His performance against Niger adds to the growing belief that he is destined for greatness.

Afriyie, currently plying his trade in Ghana’s third-tier league for Thoughts FC, has drawn comparisons to Asamoah Gyan, who also scored on his Ghana debut as a teenager and went on to become the nation’s all-time leading scorer.

Addo later apologised to officials for his emotional pitch invasion, but his gesture underscored the significance of Afriyie’s goal in a challenging campaign for the Black Stars.

Cholera Outbreak: Central Region records 720 suspected cases, 47 confirmed, seven deaths.

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The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has recorded 720 suspected instances of cholera, with 47 confirmed cases and seven fatalities in the Central Region since Thursday, October 31.  


The occurrences have been reported in eight of the 22 districts in the region including Awutu-Senya-East and West, Gomoa East, Mfantseman, Gomoa West, Agona West, Cape Coast, and Twifo-Hemang-Lawyer-Denkyira. 


While the gender of the deceased remained undisclosed, the fatalities were recorded in Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality, Assin North and South, and Gomoa West districts. 


Dr. Agnes Achiama Anane, Acting Regional Director of the GHS, disclosed this during a news briefing on the outbreak of cholera in the region on Monday. 


She said the deaths were preventable, as four of the patients arrived late at health facilities in critical condition, while three were already deceased upon arrival. 


The current situation had prompted urgent calls for preventive measures to check further transmission, emphasising the necessity for the public to adhere to hygienic protocols that were widely practised during the COVID-19 pandemic. 


These measures include frequent hand washing, use of sanitisers, and meticulous handling of food and water, deemed crucial in curtailing the spread of the disease. 


Dr. Anane underscored the importance of seeking prompt medical attention at healthcare facilities when experiencing symptoms like acute diarrhoea and dehydration to reduce the likelihood of severe illness or fatality from cholera.

 
“Our primary concern has been the fatalities. The figures, yes, but a considerable number of them were brought in critically ill, signifying delayed care and attention, “she said. 


Dr. Anane further implored residents to uphold impeccable hygiene standards and prioritise nutritious dietary practices as they remained vigilant in keeping good environmental sanitation to avert the spread of the disease. 


She said the clarion call is for a unified and concerted effort from neighbouring areas to effectively work to contain the disease. 

‘We will be honest with ourselves and fix this problem’ – GFA capo Kurt Okraku reacts to Ghana’s defeat to Niger.

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The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has admitted that all is not well with the Black Stars.

His statement follows Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to Niger on Monday in the final match of the qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In a heartfelt post on social media, Mr. Okraku emphasised his administration’s commitment to addressing the current challenges facing the national team.

“From the highest heights of world football on the 29th of March 2022 to the lowest ebb of Afcon qualifying matches. My heart bleeds. Definitely this is not what we want or what we bargained for. At this point, only cool heads can win and we as leaders of our sport, will stay together, be honest with ourselves and fix this problem,” Kurt Okraku shared on Facebook.

He further appealed for unity and collaboration in efforts to restore the Black Stars to their former glory.

“The road to full recovery after normalization is definitely bumpy and rough, but our collective efforts and patience will win and Ghana our beloved country will win. As a Black Stars fan and as the leader, I share in your pain and in our pain. We will rise from this temporary setback. It shall be well,” Kurt Okraku assured.

Ghana ended the 2025 AFCON qualification campaign without a single victory, a disappointing outcome that left the Black Stars at the bottom of Group F and eliminated them from contention for the tournament in Morocco.

Blood donation provides immense health benefits to donors.

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Donating blood not only saves lives but also provides significant health benefits to the donors, Miss Rita Justine Menorkpor, a blood donor recruiter at the National Blood Service, has stated.

She urged citizens to see blood donation as both a vital act of service to others and an important part of personal health care.

Ms. Menorkpor made these remarks during a blood donation and health screening exercise organized by the Covenant Family Community Church (CFC) over the weekend in Accra.

Speaking about the critical role of blood in healthcare, she emphasized that blood was as essential as medicine in hospitals, where it is used in various medical treatments, surgeries, and emergencies.

“While some patients are taking blood, others are taking medication…That’s blood medicine,” she said, and encouraged more people to donate blood to meet the rising demand in healthcare facilities like the Korle Bu Blood Bank.

“The demand for blood exceeds the number of donors. That’s why we often hear of shortages. By donating, you contribute to saving countless lives.”

Ms. Menorkpor said the donation process and routine checks ups helped donors to gain valuable insights into their health by revealing their blood type and blood pressure levels.

She noted that this could be lifesaving for individuals who may be unaware of underlying conditions like high or low blood pressure.

“Through blood donation, you get to know your vitals, which helps you to make informed decisions about your health and early detection of such conditions can lead to timely interventions,” she said.

According to Ms. Menorkpor, blood donation positively influences the body’s natural processes by stimulating it to continually produce new blood and eliminate old or waste cells.

She explained that this natural replenishment helps improve overall circulatory health and could contribute to better immune system function.

“Blood donation aids this process by reducing the body’s workload, allowing for the production of fresh and healthy blood cells. It’s like a water reservoir. When you use the water and refill, it stays fresh. Similarly, donating blood helps keep your body rejuvenated,” she illustrated.

Ms. Menorkpor also said that regular donors enjoyed added benefits such as priority access to blood for their relatives in emergencies.

“After donating blood for at least five times, donors are eligible to access blood for free in emergencies, provided it is available. This underscores the reciprocal nature of blood donation,” she added.

Ms. Menorkpor said individuals could donate blood every four months, which translated to two or three donations a year.

She encouraged event organisers to incorporate donation drives into their programmes and assured them that the Service was ready to participate in such initiatives regardless of location.

“We can collect blood at your church events, birthday parties, or any gathering. The distance is not an issue,” she affirmed.

Dr Joel Arhin, a Medical Officer at the Bank Hospital, stressed the need for increased blood donations, explaining that blood cannot be manufactured and relied solely on voluntary contributions.

“Imagine needing blood for a loved one and finding the bank empty. It’s a harsh reality, but together we can prevent it,” he said.

DR Arhin also said conditions like hypertension and diabetes often went unnoticed without routine checks, hence the need for health screenings to prevent and manage diseases.

“Many people walk around with dangerously high blood pressure, feeling completely fine, until complications occur. Regular health screenings can identify these conditions early,” he explained.

Dr Arhin said that health screenings included checks for blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and body mass index (BMI).

These assessments provide a comprehensive overview of an individual’s risk for cardiovascular diseases and other health conditions.

He recommended that even healthy individuals undergo screenings at least once or twice a year to stay on top of their health status and catch potential issues early.

Alan Attacks Kufuor Over Bawumia Endorsement.

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Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, the presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, has strongly criticized former President John Agyekum Kufuor’s endorsement of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) flagbearer in the upcoming 2024 general elections.

Alan mince no words when he descended heavily on the former Ghanaian leader who asked Ghanaians to vote for Dr. Bawumia.

This followed former President Kufuor interview with selected journalists on Sunday, November 17, when he appealed to Ghanaians to support Dr. Bawumia in the December polls, portraying him as the ideal candidate to lead the nation.

“Given the current global circumstances, I firmly believe that Ghana’s economy will experience significant improvement if Bawumia is elected as President. With divine guidance, he is capable of delivering on this promise, and I encourage you to support his candidacy.”

But in strong reply, Alan Kyerematen criticized Kufuor’s endorsement during an appearance on Oyerepa TV on Monday, November 18, 2024 contending that it undermines the neutrality expected of a statesman.

Kyerematen expressed concern that Kufuor’s backing has not only damaged his reputation but has also elicited widespread criticism and insults.

Kufuor is my uncle, and I don’t want to say something publicly against him. But what he has done, has created a big blot on his political career. Do you realise how people have started making derogatory comments about him?

“He’s very respected in Ghana, so why would he now be engaging in politics of this nature? He’s my uncle and his actions are bad, he’s treading on dangerous ground, and he has to stop. He knows what he’s doing.”

The former NPP member who launched the Movement for Change as an alternative to both the NPP and National Democratic Congress (NDC), highlighted the growing tensions within the political arena as the 2024 elections approach.

NDC Begs Kufuor Over Dela Edem’s Wheelchair Insults.

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The Opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has issued an apology to former President John Agyekum Kufuor, following derogatory comments made by one of its members, Dela Edem.

The NDC’s National Communications Bureau described Edem’s remarks as “unsavoury and distasteful.”.

This isn’t the first time Edem has targeted Kufuor; previously, he slammed the former President over his advice to the Speaker of Parliament.

Dela.Edem’s latest comments sparked widespread outrage, with many Ghanaians condemning his actions.

Popular actor Yaw Dabo even defended Kufuor, stating that Edem wasn’t fit to be the former President’s gateman.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) also denounced Edem’s insults, demanding an apology from the NDC.

In a statement signed by Sammy Gyamfi, the NDC’s National Communication Officer, the party acknowledged Edem’s retraction and apology to Mr Kufuor.

The NDC emphasized its respect for the elderly and statesmen, urging its communicators to focus on promoting the party’s policies rather than engaging in personal attacks.

Below is the full statement from NDC:

PRESS STATEMENT

The attention of the National Communications Bureau of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been drawn to some unfortunate comments attributed to one of its members, Comrade Dela Edem and directed at the person of former President and elderly statesman, H.E. John Agyekum Kufour.

The said comments are unsavoury and distasteful. It is therefore refreshing to note that our comrade in question has duly retracted his statements and rendered an unqualified apology to the elderly statesman (find attached).

The NDC adds its voice to the apology that has been rendered and hopes that this retraction and apology bring closure to the matter.

The NDC, as a party, accords utmost respect to the elderly in our society and honour to our statesmen.

The party strongly advises all communicators to remain focused on propagating the transformational policies of the visionary nation-builder, H.E. John Dramani Mahama and the NDC for a resounding victory on December 7th, 2024.

Having said this, the NDC wishes to caution the media to be on high alert for purveyors of fake news. It has become the modus operandi of some functionaries and hirelings of the New Patriotic Party to manufacture and disseminate fake news and malicious publications calculated to mislead the Ghanaian public.

As the elections are fast approaching, these unscrupulous NPP operatives have heightened their mischievous activities. Such persons some of whom are known NPP communicators and Presidential Staffers must be called out by the media and made to face the full rigours of the law.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Most of my players are amateurs—Niger coach Badou Zaki after win over Ghana.

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Niger coach, Badou Zaki has praised his players for their hard-fought win against Ghana in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The Mena were hosted at the Accra Sports Stadium on Monday and recorded a 2-1 win against the Black Stars in their final round of qualifiers.

In a post-match interview, Zaki explained that his team approached the game with a heightened sense of confidence, particularly after analyzing Ghana’s recent performances in various competitions.

“We knew that the Ghanaian team could score, but they also conceded goals. From our last AFCON experience, we understood this, and after our 4-0 win over Sudan, we believed that beating Ghana was possible,” Zaki said following the victory.

He also acknowledged the challenges his players faced, particularly in terms of their amateur status and the logistical issues surrounding travel. Many of Niger’s players are amateurs, and some had to endure long journeys to reach the match.

“Most of my players are amateurs, and those based outside of Niger had to travel for up to eighteen hours before arriving just a day before the game,” Zaki explained.

The win over Ghana secured Niger third place in Group F with 7 points. However, despite the victory, Niger’s qualification hopes were dashed, as they failed to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.

Meanwhile, Ghana finished at the bottom in Group F with three points after six games and will not play at the AFCON tournament for the first time in 21 years.

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