Home Blog Page 1317

Sammy Gyamfi responds to Dame’s statement on discharge of Ato Forson

By
admin
-
0
Sammy Gyamfi
  1. I) Assuming without admitting that the vehicles (ambulances) were imported into the country in violation of the contract governing the transaction as claimed by Godfred Dame, that will simply be a civil matter between the parties to the contract, which will have to be resolved in line with the dispute resolution clause of the contract, in this case, arbitration. How does a breach of contract, even if true, constitute a crime?

In any case, neither Ato Forson nor the Ministry of Finance was party to the said ambulance contract. The parties were Big Sea and Ministry of Health.

Under the contract, the Ministry of Finance only had a duty to establish LCs for the ambulances, which Ato Forson did on the instructions and authority of his Boss, Hon. Seth Tekper.

Seth Tekper himself has admitted this fact under oath in open court.

How then does any breach of the said contract by the Supplier (Big Sea) or Ministry of Health, if any, constitute a crime on the part of Ato Forson, who was not a party to the contract?

  1. II) Sherry Ayittey’s letter cautioning against the importation of the ambulances was simply on grounds of government’s financial constraint to honour its contractual obligations under the contract, and not any sound legal reasons.

Big Sea threatened to sue government if it proceeded to resile from the contract. The AG wrote a legal opinion dismissing Sherry Ayittey’s letter and indicated that the state will not be able to mount any defense in a case of a legal suit by Big Sea. The AG then directed in a legally binding legal opinion for the contract to be performed or the matter settled to avert a judgment debt to the state.

 

Dame’s constant reference to that Sherry Ayittey letter is, therefore, useless and of no moment.

iii) The Ministry of Finance had a duty to establish the LCs under the agreement. The AG directed them to perform the contract to avert a judgment debt. Consequently, the Ministry of Finance did not need any request or authorisation from Ministry of Health before it proceeded to perform its obligations under the contract, as directed by the AG.

Ato Forson signed the letter requesting the LCs to be established in favour of Big Sea for the Minister of Finance. The Minister of Finance has admitted in court that indeed he authorised Ato Forson to write that letter.

Dame says that until Seth Tekper produces a document to show that he indeed authourised Ato Forson, he won’t believe it. Is it mandatory for a minister to delegate or assign work to his deputy only in writing?

  1. IV) The term sheet of the Stanbic facility that was originally intended to fund the procurement of the ambulances was approved by Parliament in line with article 181. Until the Waterville/Isofoton cases were determined by the Supreme Court, Parliament used to only approve financial agreements and not the accompanying commercial contracts.

In any case, how does the lack of parliamentary approval for a commercial contract between the Ministry of Health and Big Sea constitute a crime on the part of Ato Forson who at all material times, was the Deputy Minister of Finance. Under what law does that constitute a crime?

  1. V) the vehicles that were shipped into the country were never handed over to government. The medical equipment were shipped differently and had to be cleared from the port by the Ministry of Health, installed by Big Sea in the vehicles and officials of NAS trained on how to operate same, before hand over.

Thus, the vehicles were not finished products and were certainly not intended to be used as ambulances until they had been fully converted into ambulances and handed over to the State.

In any case, the Ministry of Health under the leadership of Hon. Alex Segbefia engaged in negotiations with Big Sea and amicably resolved all the defects government raised with the vehicles.

It was on that basis that Big Sea shipped the necessary medical equipment that had to be installed in the ambulances to Tema Port in October 2016. The NPP government cleared these medical equipment, but has till date, failed to notify Big Sea of same to come and install them in the ambulances. Today, the medical accessories shipped by Big Sea are nowhere to be found.

How can the very government that has engaged in this gross and criminal negligence, turn around to blame anyone for causing financial loss to the State?

If the defects were irremediable as claimed by Dame, why then did government sign an agreement with Big Sea for same to be remedied?

In any case, what was the nature of the said defects?

PW1, the head of NAS, claimed in his testimony that the said defects were in the nature of:

  1. Wrong spellings
  2. ⁠Inability of some drawers in the vehicles to close on their own.
  3. ⁠Stickers not properly fixed to the vehicles, etc.
  4. ⁠Absence of medical equipment, which was later shipped by Big Sea to Ghana in October 2016,

Are these the irremediable defects Dame is talking about?

Clearly, Godfred Dame has been dazed by his disgraceful defeat in the Court of Appeal by Ato Forson, hence the attempt to smear the Court of Appeal.

 

The Court of Appeal has resolved that Godfred Dame could not establish a Prima facie case for Ato Forson and Jakpa to answer.

Witch-hunt “yaamutu”.

Editor’s note: This opinion has been slightly edited

Four in court over alleged gold scam

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
A court gavel

Four individuals, including two Businessmen and a Caterer, have appeared before the Accra Circuit Court, facing charges relating to a high-profile gold scam.

The accused – Mohammed Umaro, 54 and Sampson Acquah, 45, both Businessmen; Blessing Sylvester Aishah, 43, a Caterer and Hamidu Mumuni, who remains at large – have been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and defrauding by false pretences.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges, when they appeared before Her Honour Susana Eduful.

Sampson Acquah and Blessing Sylvester Aishah were granted bail set at GH¢100,000 each, with two sureties, whose monthly earnings must be at least GH¢5,000.

Both were also instructed to report to the police every month until the case is resolved.

Mohammed Umaro initially faced a bail denial due to concerns over his potential flight risk. However, after an appeal, he was granted bail set at GH¢50,000 with two sureties, who must also meet the GH¢5,000 monthly income requirement.

Ismali Ibrahim, a 36-year-old gold dealer from Niger, was convinced into paying $300,000 for ten gold bars that did not exist. Ibrahim had been contacted by Mumuni, who claimed to have the gold for sale.

He, along with associates Issoufoul Ibrahim and Jibril Haruna, traveled to Accra to complete the transaction.

Upon arrival, they were taken to various locations by Umaro, Acquah and Aishah, who showed them what were purported to be gold bars and agreed on a price of $300,000.

Ibrahim was directed to make the payment at a different location. When Ibrahim and his associates arrived, they were met by individuals impersonating police officers.

These men, later identified as accomplices, seized the $300,000 and the gold bars, leaving Ibrahim and his associates stranded.

Following the incident, Ibrahim filed a complaint with the Police Intelligence Directorate (PID) on May 2, 2024. The suspects were arrested on May 10, 2024.

During questioning, Umaro admitted to receiving a portion of the stolen funds, but denied direct involvement in the theft.

He reportedly received $15,000 from Mumuni, of which he distributed $6,000 to Acquah and $2,000 plus GH¢3,000 to Aishah.

The police have recovered $3,000 from Umaro and GH¢2,000 from Aishah, which are being held as evidence. The investigation continues, with authorities still searching for Hamidu Mumuni.

Olympic men’s triathlon postponed to Wednesday due to River Seine pollution

By
admin
-
0
River Seine

The Olympic men’s triathlon was postponed just hours before it was due to get under way on Tuesday after last-ditch water quality tests in the River Seine revealed unhealthy pollution levels, organisers said.

In a blow to Olympic officials who have repeatedly vowed that the Seine would be safe for athletes to swim in, organisers said the men’s event would be delayed by 24 hours and take place immediately after the women’s race on Wednesday.

A joint statement from Paris 2024 and World Triathlon blamed the excessive pollution on the heavy rain that deluged the French capital on Friday and Saturday.

French authorities have invested €1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) over the last decade to clean up the Seine, including in major new water treatment and storage facilities in and around Paris.

But heavy downpours still overwhelm the city’s underground drains and sewage system, leading to untreated effluent being released into the waterway.

After an exceptionally wet spring and start to summer, the Seine had been consistently failing water tests until the beginning of July, causing a major headache for Paris 2024 organisers. The mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, eventually swam in the Seine to demonstrate the river is now clean enough for outdoor Olympic swimming events.

Credit: rfi

 

 

ECOWAS Parliament Opens at Winneba

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
-
0
ECOWAS Parliament

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament convened in Winneba, on Wednesday, 29th July, for a five-day conference to tackle the pressing issue of plastic waste management in West Africa.

The conference, which is scheduled to end on Saturday, August 3, 2024 is made up of the committees on Agriculture, Environment, Natural Resources, Energy and Mines and Infrastructure, is spearheaded by the Head of Ghana’s Delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, Mr. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, aims to develop practical and realistic solutions to the region’s plastic waste crisis.

The session represents a significant step towards addressing environmental challenges and improving the well-being of communities across ECOWAS member states.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Afenyo-Markin expressed his gratitude to the 6th Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament for their dedication to community programs and commended the Joint Committee for choosing this crucial topic.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasised the warm reception the ECOWAS Parliament has consistently received from the people of Ghana.

“My fellow Ghanaians, this is your opportunity to welcome the ECOWAS Parliament, to open your arms to the Members as you have always done,” he said.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin highlighted the significance of the ECOWAS Parliament’s presence. “ECOWAS, through this Parliament, is here with you to reflect and discuss the issue of plastic waste and seek your deepest aspirations,” he stated.

He encouraged the citizens to embrace the parliamentarians and experts, underscoring the shared identity and unity within the ECOWAS community.

“Yes, all of us here today are brothers and sisters from the same father and mother, which is called ECOWAS,” Afenyo-Markin affirmed.

The Head of Delegation reserved special thanks for Her Excellency Hadja Memounatou Ibrahima, Honourable Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, for her instrumental role in making the meeting possible.

“Thank you for making it possible to hold the first delocalised meeting of the 6th Legislature here in Winneba, Ghana,” he said.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin acknowledged her ability to manage diverse perspectives within the parliament, fostering an environment where all members could contribute effectively.

Turning to the pressing issue, Afenyo-Markin emphasised the pervasive nature of plastic waste across West Africa.

“The issue that brings us together today is a common concern inherent in all modern societies, particularly urban societies in our community, from Dakar to Lagos, every major city in the region grapples with the impact of plastic waste”.

He stressed that while national solutions are necessary, the cross-border nature of the problem demands a collective, community-driven approach. “Given its cross-border nature, a community solution must be envisaged,” he asserted.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin highlighted the broad implications of plastic waste, affecting not just the environment but also agriculture, infrastructure and public health.

“It’s not a divisive issue, but one that affects our daily lives and has consequences for our populations, environments, agriculture and infrastructure,” he explained.

He praised the Joint Committee for selecting such a relevant topic, emphasising its importance in shaping the well-being of West African communities.

In conclusion, Afenyo-Markin expressed his hope that the deliberations would yield holistic solutions to mitigate the challenges posed by plastic waste.

“For us Members of this Sixth Legislature, this is the very meaning of our mandate in Parliament,” he declared.

ECOWAS Parliament

The ECOWAS Parliament, also known as the Community Parliament, is one of the Institutions of ECOWAS. It is the Assembly of Peoples of the Community serving as a forum for dialogue, consultation and consensus for Representatives of the people of West Africa with the aim of promoting integration. It was established under Articles 6 and 13 of the ECOWAS Revised Treaty of 1993. The initial Protocol establishing the Parliament was signed in Abuja on August 6, 1994.

The Parliament is composed of one hundred and fifteen (115) seats. Each Member State shall have a guaranteed minimum of five (5) seats. The remaining forty (40) seats shall be shared on the basis of population.

ECG Training Centre receives award for Capacity Building

By
INUSAH MUSAH
-
0
Staff of the ECG Training Center displaying awards they swept at the Governance and Business Leadership Awards 2024

The Electricity Company of Ghana Limited’s Training Centre, Tema, was awarded the ‘Outstanding Training and Capacity Building Excellence’ at the just-ended Governance and Business Leadership Awards 2024.
The event, held at the Accra Marriot Hotel, on Saturday, 27th July, 2024 was on the theme: ‘The promise of leadership, transformation, impact, growth and prosperity for all’.

The ECG Training Center was recognised based on its “remarkable strides and noteworthy success as a corporate governance and business leadership centre”, as well as its “tremendous contribution in strategic leadership and vision to achieve business success, stakeholder profitability, community impact and contribution to national development”, as shared by the organisers of the Awards programme.

On the same platform, the Head of the ECG Training Center, Ing Godfred Mensah, was acknowledged as ‘Outstanding Business Leader’ of the year in the area of training and development.

The Public Relations Officer of the Company, Sakyiwaa Mensah, told The Chronicle on the telephone that the ECG Training Centre has poised itself to provide technical training with a particular focus on electrical engineering and the energy sector as a whole.

Thanking the organisers for the awards, Miss Sakyiwaa said the center would continue to provide capacity building for eligible persons within the country, as well as those from countries within the ECOWAS region.

Meanwhile, the South Tema District of the Tema Region of ECG held a stakeholders meeting with a cross-section of residents and stakeholders of Tema New Town to, among other things, discuss issues of mutual benefit to the company and the residents who are direct and indirect customers of the power distributor.

The ECG South Tema District Manager, Ing Horace Nkansah, who chaired the meeting, thanked the participants for their continued support in helping the district to serve them by relaying valuable information to the District’s Faults Team.

The District’s Commercial Officer, Madam Victoria Ahiati, led the education on acquisition of separate meters, sanctions for illegal connections, causes of low current and energy conservation.

There was discourse on the ECG cashless system and how customers can go about it, the use of the power app for bill payments and associated services as well as safety during rainstorms.

The engaging and educative forum enabled the stakeholders to openly share their problems and make suggestions, while the representatives of the power distributor also gave answers appropriately.

Mary Sakyiwaa, the PRO for the power distributor in the Tema Region, told The Chronicle that ECG organises such engagements to reach out to stakeholders and the general public to educate them on ECG operations and to call on them to help the company to protect its equipment such as transformers and overhead cables so as to reduce incidents of theft and vandalism.

“The ECG constantly calls on the public to also report problems with outages and faults to the company and to desist from unathorised interferance with their distribution networks,” she ended.

CDS grilled over how Jakpa was released from the Ghana Armed Forces

By
BERNICE BESSEY
-
0
Maj. Gen. Thomas Oppong-Peprah appointed Chief of Defence Staff

The ongoing trial involving Richard Jakpa, a businessman and the third accused (A3) in the high-profile ambulance case, has seen an escalation of tension between Jakpa and Ghana’s Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame.

The latest issue hinges on Jakpa’s military service record, which remains a contentious point in the courtroom.

Jakpa’s legal team argues that he was discharged from the military due to lack of application or interest in the military, as confirmed by Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

Thaddeus Sory, lead counsel for A3, while leading the CDS who has been subpoenaed to testify in the €2.37million ambulance case, told the Accra High Court, presided over by justice of the Court of Appeal, Afia Serwah Asare Botwe, on Monday, July 29, 2024, that the military should provide reasons applicable to each case for his release from the army.

According to him, reasons for release from the army are misconduct, inefficiency, medically unfit, but in all these, it is only medically unfit that a release will describe as honourable.

He added that A3 was released under item 2, inefficiency, which mentioned continued lack of application and interest.

Mr. Sory stated this by posing a question to the CDS that, “apart from item 3 (medically unfit), to which the notation honourably released is applicable, can you find honourably release to any of the items?” and the subpoenaed witness answered in the negative.

Even though the defence counsel stated the grounds provided by the Minister for Defence for the release of A3 from the Army are different from that of the military, the subpoenaed witness said the Defence minister had said he was providing more details to confirm why Lt. Jakpa was released from the Army.

The CDS, who was dragged before the court in respect of some documents that were tendered in court, disclosing why A3’s service was terminated by the Ghana Armed Forces in 2007.

Mr. Sory told the court that at the last adjourned date, the Military Secretary was asked whether he made available the document to the Minister for Defence, and he confirmed that although he is the custodian of such documents, he didn’t release it to the Minister for Defence.

Counsel posed the same question to the CDS, as to whether he released the said document to the Minister for Defence and Lt Gen. Thomas Oppong-Peprah answered that he also never received any request to release any documents to anybody.

In furtherance of this, the CDS was questioned whether misconduct appeared in the military release letter to A3 and the answer was a definite no.

The A-G also cross-examined the subpoenaed witness, after Dr. Abdul Baasit Aziz Bamba, counsel for Cassiel Baah Ato Forson (A1), a former Deputy Minster Finance and Economic Planning (MoFEP), had taken his turn.

Mr. Dame, in neutralizing the evidence led by A3, asked the witness whether the Minister for Defence is under any obligation to copy him any document that he is releasing to another public officer. And the answer was that the Defence Minister exercises that right to copy the CDS or not.

This response was followed by a question, “Will you consider it to be a breach of rule or procedure if the minister releases a document to the A-G?”  The answer was no. My mandate ends with Armed Forces. I have no control over the Minister for Defence.

He then posed the question to the witness that regarding all the factors and circumstances regarding his release, would the CDS say that A3 was released honourably, Lt. Gen. Oppong said “as per the documents on record, I would say he was not honourably released.”

The CDS also confirmed that A3 was not placed on the retired list, as well as refrained from using his rank in civil life.

According to the AG, A3 was released on the grounds of unsatisfactory conduct of failing promotional examines, indiscipline, unprofessional behaviour and indebtedness, which the CDS clarified, based on the record that they amount to misconduct on the part of the Jakpa.

Akufo-Addo commissions $60m UHAS Phase II Project in Ho

By
MAXWELL OFORI
-
0
Part of the UHAS Phase II project

The President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has commissioned the $60 million Phase II expansion of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, Volta Region.

The project, that took some barely 36 months to complete, was commissioned on Monday, July 29, 2024.

President Akufo-Addo broke the ground for the commencement of work on Phase II on September 10, 2021.

Under the instruction of the President, the Ministers for Education and Finance, in collaboration with UHAS management and the then Vice Chancellor, Professor John Owusu Gyapong, secured $60 million in funding from the Chinese Government.

Phase II is designed to house the Central Administration of the University and the School of Nursing and Midwifery (SONAM).

The project also includes classrooms, a library, laboratories, an auditorium, a student activity centre and a cafeteria.

These additions are expected to enhance the university’s capability to deliver top-tier education and foster an environment conducive to learning and innovation.

The design and planning phases saw extensive collaboration between the China Urban Construction Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd. (CUCD) and the technical staff of UHAS, ensuring that the project met the highest standards.

USEFULNESS

The President said that the completion of Phase II will significantly enhance UHAS’s capacity to train more health professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other allied health practitioners.

According to him, the expansion was essential to address the growing healthcare needs of Ghana’s population and the demand for a skilled workforce.

He stressed that with additional facilities and resources, UHAS will be better positioned to offer comprehensive education and practical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the healthcare sector’s challenges.

Also, the new facilities, the President noted, will support cutting-edge research and innovation, allowing scientists and researchers to explore new advancements in medicine and healthcare delivery.

President Akufo-Addo announced a personal donation of ten desktop computers and ten laptops to UHAS. He said these devices will aid the administration and enhance the university’s capacity to provide quality education and services.

ACHIEVEMENT IN HEALTHCARE

President Akufo-Addo, during his acceptance speech for an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from the UHAS, highlighted the achievements of his government in the healthcare sector.

According to him, his administration has spent a total of over GH¢33 billion to improve healthcare infrastructure across the country in the last seven years, emphasising the construction and equipping of polyclinics, hospitals and specialised treatment centres.

“We have successfully constructed and equipped ten polyclinics in the Central Region, located in Ajumaku Bisease, Gomoa Dawurampong, Biriwa, Etsii Sunkwa, Binpong Egya, Gyamera, Mankrong, Akonfude, Ekumfi Naakwa, and Gomoa Potsin,” President Akufo-Addo announced, among others across the country.

He added that several projects have been completed and are waiting for commissioning, including public health facilities in the Western Region, the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital Phase III, and twelve district hospitals in the Eastern, Ashanti, Ahafo, and Greater Accra Regions.

He mentioned the famous Agenda 111 projects and said they are at various stages of completion with an average rate of 65% and some at 80%.

Ongoing projects slated for completion by December 2024 include additional treatment and holding centres, staff accommodation at Dodowa, refurbishment of the Effia Nkwanta research laboratory, and a paediatric clinic in Weija-Gbawe municipality.

The government is also constructing a training facility for the National Ambulance Service at Nkenkasu in the Ashanti Region and equipping the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Maternity and Children’s Block.

President Akufo-Addo was conferred with an honorary doctorate degree

HONORARY DOCTORATE

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was conferred with an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree (Honoris Causa) by UHAS, as part of the ceremony on Monday, July 29, 2024.

The recognition underscored the President’s dedication to advancing science education and healthcare in Ghana.

In his acceptance speech, President Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude and humility, acknowledging that this honour reflects not only his personal achievements but also the collective efforts of his administration and the support of the Ghanaian people.

He highlighted that this latest accolade adds to a distinguished list of honorary degrees he has received from prestigious institutions globally, including the University of Fort Hare, the University of Liberia, the University of Cape Coast, the University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne and Valley View University.

NHIS Announces Free Annual Health Check-Up

By
JENNIFER AMBOLLEY
-
0
Dr. Da Costa Aboagye, CEO of NHIA addressing the gathering

The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) has launched a free Annual Health Check-Ups (AHC) to tackle the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the country.

The AHC, which is for 18 years old and above, registered with the NHIS and with the Ghana Card, is made up of annual blood pressure check, blood sugar check, body mass index check (height & weight) and counselling when needed.

To be able to enrol in this service, eligible beneficiaries will be required to contact the NHIS by dialling a USSD short code (which is to be announced soon) during their birth month, to generate an Access Ticket on their mobile phones.

Addressing the gathering at the launch ceremony in Accra on Monday, 29 July 2024, Dr Ernest K.P. Kwarko, Board Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), emphasised that the free annual health check-up program embodies NHIA’s commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and ensuring that all citizens have access to essential health services.

Dr Kwarko highlighted the increasing global recognition of preventive healthcare’s importance. “Early detection and intervention can prevent serious health conditions, reduce the burden of diseases and improve quality of life,” he noted.

The program, according to him, aims to identify potential health issues at an early stage through comprehensive screenings, including blood pressure management, blood sugar testing, body mass index checks and counselling.

The first phase of the program will be implemented nationwide, providing accessible services at designated public and private health facilities.

Dr Kwarko emphasised that the initiative is open to all citizens covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and anyone with a Ghana card.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to equitable health access,” he said, adding that “this program is not just about testing; it’s about educating our population on healthy lifestyles and preventive measures.”

Partcipants seated at the launch

He urged all citizens to take advantage of the free service, stressing that preventive healthcare is crucial for leading healthier lives.

Dr Kwarko outlined the broader goals of the initiative, including increasing life expectancy and reducing the cost burden of curative healthcare. “Our core drivers currently are hypertension and diabetes. We believe that it is unsustainable going into the future. With this initiative, we will be able to reduce our cost burden on these two diseases,” he said.

He also mentioned future plans for the program, such as introducing additional interventions like Pap smear tests for women.

The NHIA aims to accelerate the achievement of universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which focuses on health and wellness.

Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, Director General of the Ghana Health Services, who also delivered an address emphasised the significant burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on the Ghanaian population.

“Non-communicable diseases have contributed to more than 40% of all post-mortality cases in Ghana,” he noted.

He also highlighted the alarming increase in cancer cases, with new cases rising from 16,000 in 2016 to 24,000 by 2020.

“Childhood cancer rates”, according to him, are also rising, accounting for around 40% of all cancers, compared to the previous incidence of 1%.”

He stressed the importance of preventive measures, particularly in addressing hypertension and diabetes, which are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in Ghana stressing that, “Since 2017, hypertension has been the third leading cause of post-mortem admissions and a leading cause of death.”

Dr. Aboagye also highlighted the economic burden of NCDs, citing the high costs associated with treating conditions like breast cancer and hypertension.

According to him, the economic value of breast cancer treatment in Ghana is estimated at $20,145 per patient while the lifetime cost of treating hypertension is around $119,000.”

Dr. Aboagye also mentioned the establishment of a geriatric and healthy aging department to cater to the needs of the elderly population.

The Director General acknowledged the financial barriers that often prevent people from accessing healthcare.

He expressed his optimism that the free annual health check-up program would be a game-changer in Ghana’s healthcare landscape, complementing existing service delivery and consumer liberalisation efforts.

Editorial: NHIS Launch Of Free Annual Check-Ups Commendable

By
admin
-
0
Dr. Da Costa Aboagye, CEO of NHIA addressing the gathering

In a story published on page 2 of today’s issue of The Chronicle, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is reported to have launched free Annual Health Check-Ups (AHC) to tackle the burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the country.

The AHC, which is for 18 years old and above registered with the NHIS and with the Ghana Card, aims to identify potential health issues at an early stage through comprehensive screenings, including blood pressure management, blood sugar testing, body mass index checks and counseling.

The first phase of the program will be implemented nationwide, providing accessible services at designated public and private health facilities.

To be able to enroll in this service, eligible beneficiaries will be required to contact the NHIS by dialing a USSD short code (which is to be announced soon) during their birth month to generate an Access Ticket on their mobile phones.

Addressing the gathering at the launch ceremony, Dr. Ernest K.P. Kwarko, Board Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) emphasised that the free annual health check-up program embodies NHIA’s commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and ensuring that all citizens have access to essential health services.

Dr. Kwarko highlighted the increasing global recognition of preventive healthcare’s importance, noting that early detection and intervention can prevent serious health conditions, reduce the burden of diseases and improve quality of life.

He urged all citizens to take advantage of the free service, stressing that preventive healthcare is crucial for leading healthier lives.

The Chronicle would like to commend the NHIA for bringing about such an initiative to help address Non-Communicable Diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer.

Hypertension and diabetes, two of the most significant contributors to morbidity and mortality, have reached epidemic proportions. In Ghana, hypertension tops all adult hospital admissions and is associated with a significant proportion of overall adult deaths. Of particular concern is the hike in hypertension cases among younger adults who constitute majority of the working population in Ghana.

Also, there are misconceptions and poor knowledge of hypertension in Ghana, even among patients living with hypertension, which is why this initiative is again commendable.

According to statistics, currently, the prevalence of hypertension is reported between 27% and 34%. On average, one in four adults in Ghana has hypertension. Nearly, less than 35% are aware of their status with only 22% on treatment.  In 2021, over 5 million people in Ghana had hypertension.

This initiative is indeed a commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and ensuring equitable access to essential health services for all citizens.

Non-communicable diseases have become a formidable challenge for Ghana, contributing to over 40% of all post-mortality cases, as highlighted by Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye, Director General of the Ghana Health Services. The alarming increase in cancer cases, rising from 16,000 in 2016 to 24,000 by 2020 and the surge in childhood cancer rates to 40% of all cancers underscore the urgency of addressing these health issues. The introduction of the AHC program is a proactive response to this growing health crisis.

Dr. Ernest K.P. Kwarko rightly pointed out that preventive healthcare is globally recognised for its importance. Early detection and intervention can prevent serious health conditions, reduce the burden of diseases and improve the quality of life.

The AHC program is designed to identify potential health issues at an early stage, allowing for timely treatment and management. This initiative not only focuses on testing but also on educating the population about healthy lifestyles and preventive measures.

The broader goals of the AHC program are ambitious yet achievable. Increasing life expectancy and reducing the cost burden of curative healthcare are critical objectives. As Dr. Kwarko emphasised, the core drivers of the current healthcare cost burden are hypertension and diabetes.

By focusing on early detection and preventive care, the AHC program aims to alleviate this financial strain on the healthcare system. Additionally, future plans to introduce interventions like Pap smear tests for women demonstrate the program’s commitment to comprehensive healthcare.

The significance of this program cannot be overstated. Moreover, the program’s emphasis on preventive healthcare is a strategic move towards building a healthier and more productive nation. As Dr. Kwarko aptly put it, preventive healthcare pushes us towards a healthier life.

By participating in the free annual health check-up program, citizens are not only safeguarding their health but also contributing to a healthier nation. This initiative is expected to pave the way for more innovative healthcare strategies in the future, ultimately transforming Ghana’s healthcare system.

The financial implications of untreated NCDs are staggering. The estimated cost of treating breast cancer in Ghana is $20,145 per patient, while the lifetime cost of treating hypertension is around $119,000. These figures highlight the economic burden of NCDs on individuals and the healthcare system.

This initiative sets a precedent for future healthcare strategies, demonstrating that proactive health measures can lead to a healthier and more prosperous nation. Together, we can build a healthier future for Ghana.

Check these incorrect funeral-related expressions: By Anthony Kwadwo Kyei

By
admin
-
0
Funeral setting

Some incorrect funeral-related expressions have become very common and popular in the Ghanaian society.

I would, therefore, like to highlight and correct them to set the record straight. Mediocrity in both oral and written English should not be encouraged.

To start, I cannot fathom why the noun ‘obituary’ is commonly written as titles on funeral posters and billboards in the country. Are we not doing the wrong thing?

The Oxford Dictionary defines obituary as ‘an article about somebody’s life and achievements, that is printed in a newspaper soon after they have died’.

Based on this definition, I think it is wrong to run funeral posters and billboards under the title ‘Obituary’. These posters and billboards usually announce funeral arrangements.

The following funeral-related expressions are incorrect:

Laying in state

The correct expression is ‘lying in state’. Besides, it is incorrect to hyphenate it, as in ‘lying-in-state’.

The original expression is ‘lie in state’ which means ‘to place the dead body of an important person on view in a public place before being buried’.

The progressive tense of the verb ‘to lie’ is ‘lying’ and not ‘laying’. ‘Laying’ is the progressive tense of the verb ‘to lay’ which usually functions transitively. In other words, it takes an object. Eg: Relatives are laying wreaths on the grave.

This mistake (laying in state) is commonly found on posters and billboards that announce funeral arrangements.

One-week observation

We should rather say or write ‘One-week observance’.

Observation is the act of watching somebody or something carefully for a period of time, while observance is an act performed as part of a religious or traditional ceremony.

Based on their respective definitions, ‘One-week observance’ is correct, while ‘One-week observation’ is incorrect.

One-week celebration

Another common mistake is ‘One-week celebration’. We normally celebrate an event with joy, not sorrow.

In fact, losing a relative forever is very painful; hence, the funeral of a relative is a sorrowful event which does not call for a celebration.

Call to Glory

The correct expression is ‘Called to Glory’. Instead of writing ‘he or she has been called to glory’, we simply write ‘Called to Glory’.

Similarly, instead of writing ‘he or she has gone too soon’, we simply write ‘Gone too Soon’, not ‘Go too Soon’ like ‘Call to Glory’.

‘Called’ and ‘gone’ are the past participles of the verbs ‘to call’ and ‘to go’ respectively. Logically, the past participles of the verbs should be used in both expressions.

The expression ‘A Call to Glory’ is also correct. In this expression, ‘Call’ is a noun and not a verb.

Last respect

The correct expression is ‘last respects’. Don’t forget to add an ‘s’ to ‘respect’. We show respect but pay respects.

This expression is an idiom, and it means ‘to show one’s respect or affection for someone who has just died by coming to see his or her body or grave’. Eg: He came from Germany to Ghana to pay his last respects (not: respect) to his father.

Wake-keeping

The following sentence is incorrect: There will be no wake-keeping. The correct expression is ‘wake’ and not ‘wake-keeping’; omit ‘keeping’.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, wake is an occasion before or after a funeral when people gather to remember the dead person, traditionally held the night before the funeral, to watch over the body before it is buried.

Internment

The correct word is ‘interment’. Due to the similar spellings of ‘internment’ and ‘interment’, many mistake ‘internment’ for ‘interment’ on funeral posters and billboards.

Interment is the act of burying a dead person, while internment is the act of putting someone in prison for political or military reasons, especially during a war, as in: he was threatened with internment in a concentration camp.

The writer is a proof-reader/editor

E-mail -anthokyei@gmail.com

 

1...1,3161,3171,318...3,014Page 1,317 of 3,014

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©
The Ghanaian Chronicle