Tamale: The Northern, Upper East, and Savannah Regional Health Directorates have received a substantial donation of medicines and medical equipment aimed at enhancing healthcare services for pregnant and lactating mothers, adolescent girls, and children under five years.
According to Ghana News Agency, the donated items, valued at GHc1.6 million, were funded by the Canadian Government through Global Affairs Canada. The supplies include essential medicines such as Combined Iron (III) Hydroxide Polymaltose and Folic Acid, Mebendazole, and Albendazole, as well as medical equipment like digital thermometers, blood pressure monitors, and weighing scales. A total of 96,374 individuals across nine districts in the three regions are expected to benefit from this initiative.
The donation, facilitated by Children Believe under the Championing Nutrition and Gender Equality (CHANGE) project, targets 54 health facilities in districts including Bole, Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, East Gonja, and others. The project, supported by Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with Norsaac, seeks to improve nutrition and empower women and girls.
Madam Esenam Kavi De Souza, Country Director of Children Believe, emphasized the project's focus on enhancing women's leadership and resource control for equitable nutrition practices during the handover at the Regional Medical Stores in Tamale. The initiative follows assessments by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to address critical healthcare needs in the targeted communities.
Dr. Chrysantus Kubio, Northern Regional Director of GHS, expressed optimism about the project's impact on health service delivery. He mentioned additional support through motorbikes and laptops to aid health personnel in data management and service improvement. Mr. Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu, Northern Regional Coordinating Director, praised the initiative as vital for improving nutrition, healthcare, and gender equity.
Madam Fran§oise Nduwimana, Head of Cooperation at the Canadian High Commission in Ghana, highlighted the project's role in strengthening health systems and empowering vulnerable populations. She urged all stakeholders to ensure effective use of the donated resources to reach the intended beneficiaries.