By: Modupe Adeniyi. Freelance Health Reporter.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2024. Ghana's Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC), has unveiled the 2024 edition of the Obstetric Fistula Programme. This initiative aims to address a devastating yet preventable condition affecting numerous women across Ghana and West Africa, particularly those in rural areas with limited healthcare access.
The programme's launch, held on September 6, 2024, at the Alisa Hotel, brought together key stakeholders from various ministries and ECOWAS. Dr. Ignatius Awinubonu, Director of Allied Health Sciences at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the severity of obstetric fistula in Ghana, especially in rural and underserved areas.
"Women suffering from this condition endure not only physical pain but also social ostracization, often being abandoned by their families and communities," Dr. Awinubonu stated.
The 2024 programme builds upon the Ghana Obstetric Fistula Prevention and Management Strategic Plan (GOFPMSP) 2017-2021, which focused on three key areas:
The new initiative aims to scale up efforts by introducing enhanced community outreach and training for healthcare providers. A crucial component of the programme is the ECOWAS-funded rehabilitation of the Tamale Fistula Centre. This upgrade will enhance the facility's capacity to provide:
Surgical repairs
Psychological support
Social support services
Dr. Awinubonu further highlighted the importance of this holistic approach for the full recovery and reintegration of affected women into their communities.
Dr. Gabriel Ganyaglo, representing the Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts. "Today's launch marks a new chapter in our journey to eliminate obstetric fistula from Ghana. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to renew their commitment and resources," he stated.
Demonstrating their commitment to the cause, ECOWAS presented a cheque of $245,000 to support women and girls affected by obstetric fistula across West Africa.
As Ghana takes this significant step forward in addressing obstetric fistula, the 2024 programme represents hope for countless women and a commitment to improving maternal health across the nation.
Source: Ghana Web News.
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Published: SEPTEMBER 11, 2024
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