Upper east region: The top management and staff of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) in the Upper East Region made a vibrant cultural statement by donning traditional smocks, known as Fugu, during the second day of their 2025 Annual Performance Review meeting.
According to Ghana News Agency, this sartorial choice aligns with President John Dramani Mahama's declaration of Wednesdays as 'National Fugu or Batakari Day'. The initiative supports the local textile industry, aids northern weavers, and highlights Ghanaian heritage in public and corporate spaces. Dr. Braimah Baba Abubakari, the Regional Director of Health Services, led the gathering in a Fugu and matching hat, joined by Deputies, Municipal and District Directors, and senior staff, transforming the formal event into a display of woven artistry.
Beyond the cultural display, the meeting centered on the theme: 'Strengthening health systems for sustainable and equitable access to quality healthcare: the role of monitoring and supportive supervision.' The two-day event attracted a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Education Service, Veterinary officials, members of the Regional Health Committee, and health-focused NGOs.
This review serves as a crucial platform for the Directorate to assess past milestones and strategize on enhancing healthcare delivery across the region. In a message delivered by Dr. Lawrence Ofori-Boadu on behalf of Dr. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, Director-General of the Service, the significance of the annual review was emphasized as an opportunity to reflect on performance, learn lessons, and reaffirm commitment to improvement and accountability.
Dr. Akoriyea appreciated the dedication and resilience of the staff in the region, acknowledging their professionalism and sacrifice despite operational challenges. He urged them to continue serving with integrity and purpose to improve the health and well-being of all Ghanaians.