Care-taker Minister of Health, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful has described glaucoma as a silent thief of sight. According to her, about 80 million of people are living with glaucoma worldwide without being aware of their condition. Delivering a speech on behalf of the Care-taker Minister of Health, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, Acting Head Public Health & Health Promotion, Ministry of Health, Dr. Mavis Sakyi said “In Ghana, over 700,000 people are affected by glaucoma. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, yet it often goes undetected until it's too late" "As the Ministry of health, we are committed to raising awareness about this debilitating disease and ensuring that everyone has access to early detection and treatment” She added that this week’s celebration presents a crucial opportunity to raise awareness on risk factors, symptoms and importance of early screening for glaucoma in Ghana. “We must work together to educate our communities about the importance of regular eye exams, especially for those at higher risk of developing glaucoma. By promoting early detection and timely intervention, we can prevent unnecessary vision loss and improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition” “Hope is the conviction of a better tomorrow because you and I are working actively on a goal today” She called on healthcare providers, development partners, advocates for eye health and all other stakeholders to join hands in the fight against glaucoma. “Let us collaborate on innovative solutions, invest in research, and advocate for policies that prioritize eye health. Together, we can make a difference and create a world where glaucoma is no longer a threat to our vision” On his part, Director-General, Ghana Health Service, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye said “Glaucoma is a chronic, progressive, degenerative disorder of the optic nerve that produces characteristic visual field damage. Glaucoma damages the eye optic nerve which carries visual information to the brain, and the resultant lost vision cannot be restored” He added that globally, the number of people (aged 40 to 80 years) with glaucoma was estimated to be 64.3 million in 2013, increasing to 76.0 million in 2020 and projected to reach 111.8 million in 2040. “The global prevalence of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is estimated to be highest in Africa with some 7.03 million cases. In Ghana, Glaucoma is the second cause of blindness, but the number one cause of IRREVERSIBLE BLINDNESS and is estimated to affect over 700,000 people in Ghana” “Almost 8 of every 100 Ghanaians aged 30 years and above and 9 of every 100 Ghanaians aged 40 years and above have glaucoma. Glaucoma accounts for over 19 % of all cases of blindness (about 45,000 people)  in the country and is the most important cause of permanent blindness. This translates into 1 in 5 people blind from glaucoma. (Ghana blindness survey,2015)” On prevention and promotive activities, he said “Chair, eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma and the only clinically proven treatment for glaucoma is to lower the eye pressure with medications and surgery. However, early detection combined with treatment can slow down or stop glaucoma progression” “In this vein, the Ghana Health Service is expanding the wellness clinic concept to include awareness creation and screening for glaucoma. By this, we implore both persons living with the disease and those not to go for regular checkups” “As part of the aware creation, we are Imploring everyone to get checked because the earlier the diagnosis, the less damage will be done and the more vision will be saved.” “Recommending that anyone 20 years and above have an eye examination every 2 years till age 30 years after which an eye exam should be performed yearly” Patron, Glaucoma Patient Association of Ghana, Dr. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings said “As a proud patron of the Glaucoma Association, I am happy to be part of this year’s World Glaucoma Week, and honoured to join hands with you in the mission of uniting for a glaucoma-free world” “This year's theme “Uniting for a Glaucoma – Free World” resonates deeply with our collective commitment to raising awareness and fostering collaboration to combat this sight-threatening condition” Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings hinted that glaucoma affects millions worldwide, yet awareness and early detection remain paramount in mitigating its impact. “Through our unified efforts, we can empower individuals with knowledge about glaucoma, promote regular eye screenings, and advocate for accessible and effective treatments” “Let us amplify our voices and mobilize resources towards eradicating glaucoma to ensure a brighter future for all and enjoy a life free from the constraints of this silent thief of sight” President of Glaucoma Patient Association of Ghana, Harrison Kofi Abutiate said “For our part as GpAG, we are concerned about people living with glaucoma. We are worried about the taxes on eye medicines and equipment which make treatment expensive to our members” “We also plead for financial and material support from NGOs, public and corporate organizations in this awareness creation for glaucoma” “It is worthy to note that various research labs in the world are studying how to protect retinal ganglion cells that make up the optic nerve, from attack and degeneration. There is also analysis of 3 additional genres that contribute to the most common type of glaucoma, that is the primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) so that modifications can be made on them” Founder, Becks Glaucoma Foundation Ghana, Rebecca Amenu said “We at Becks Glaucoma Foundation Ghana, endeavor to provide mechanized support to the government, individuals and the nation at large to solve humanities eye related issues this we do by giving hope in reviving sight to the destitute in our communities and beyond” “However, we can not accomplish this alone therefore, I’m making a passionate appeal to philanthropist, religious bodies, health organizations, and the media to come on people who board to support Becks Glaucoma Foundation Ghana with funds or kind to hopefully restore the sight of the people who have fallen victim to the silent thief of sight, Glaucoma” Taking his turn, Chairman, Glaucoma Working Group of the OSG, Charles Mensah Cofie said “World Glaucoma Week is a global initiative of the WGA in order to raise awareness about Glaucoma” He noted the final goal is to alert everyone to have regular eye checks in order to detect glaucoma as early as possible. The Glaucoma Working Group of the OSG, he explained, is a group made up of ophthalmologists who have studied further and dedicated themselves to the management of glaucoma. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Recall that days ago, YOLO star, Drogba, took to the internet to solicit funds to aid his deteriorated health. As confirmed, Drogba born John Peasah is currently battling Demyelinating Disease. According to Drogba’s sister Hannah Mensah, his brother’s health challenges began during the shooting of a scene in the last season of the YOLO series. Since then, he has been experiencing double vision and sensitivity to light, rendering him unable to tolerate daylight or flashing lights. Ever since this piece of sad information became public, kind Ghanaians have started donating to him. Dr Bawumia, the vice President of Ghana and the flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party has also visited Drogba inside his home. In a video that’s currently making rounds, Dr. Bawumia is seen in Drogba’s living room with his aides. As believed, Dr Bawumia went there to also give his donation to Drogba to aid in his health expenses. Despite the kind gesture from the vice president, Ghanaians on the internet have found fault with his harmless act. According to these critics, Dr Bawumia only visited Drogba because we are in an election year and he wants to amass sympathy votes by all means. Maxwell Asante on Facebook for instance commented; “Who sent him there. All because of vote” Safori Richard Kofi – Politicians will do everything to win power Chale hmmmm Nuertey Ago – Who sent him there slf Kamel Mohammed – Who sent him there. However, donations are still ongoing. To facilitate contributions, details of his bank account were provided, with the account information as follows: Name – John Bredu Peasah, Bank – Access Bank, Account Number – 0535934031, Branch – Adjiriganor Branch. Credit: GHPage

Award-winning Gospel musician MOG has responded to criticisms regarding his comment on the Presidential assent of the Anti-LGBTQI bill. In an interview on UTV last Friday, MOG refused to publicly state his stance on the final assenting of the bill to protect his image as a gospel musician. Hours after his comment the musician received backlashes for passing such a comment particularly due to his faith as a Christian. But speaking on TV3’s New Day, he said although he was clear in his comment, critics misquoted him just to attack his personality. “People must eat so they have to sell bad news but definitely you cannot tarnish the image of a man that God has raised,” he said on Wednesday, March 13. MOG clarified that his comment was in relation to the assent of the bill and its Supreme Court matters arising and not on the activities of LGBTQI. He stated that he is still a Christian with strong faith in God and cannot go against the scripture’s stance on LGBTQI activities. “I am a Christian and stand with the scripture. I am not going to go against my faith and do something that is wrong. I just want to set the record straight that MOG has not failed to stand as a Christian, I believe in God and will not go against my faith,” he stressed on Wednesday, March 13. The Anti-LGBTQI bill is currently waiting President Akufo-Addo’s assent to finally be implemented into law. Meanwhile, a Ghanaian citizen has also filed a suit at the Supreme Court to prevent the President from assenting to the bill. Richard Dela Sky is of the view that the bill violates Article 33(5) of the Constitution of 1992, as well as the provisions of Articles 12(1) and (2), 15(1), 17(1) and (2), 18(2), and 21(1) (a) (b) (d) and (e) of the Constitution. Credit: 3news

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has paid a visit to the ailing YOLO actor, John Peasah popularly known as Drogba. Drogba has been diagnosed with demyelination, a disorder that damages the protective covering of the nerves, causing problems with vision, movement, and sensation. The Vice-President visited the actor in his home on Tuesday, March 12 to sympathise with him and offer support for his treatment process. A video of the visit posted on X show the Vice-President being welcomed by family members of the actor. The sad news of Drogba’s condition was shared by colleague actor Jeffrey Nortey who appealed for support and financial assistance for the actor. Following the news, Drogba’s sister Hannah Mensah has shared the current condition and treatment processes for her brother, Drogba. Speaking in an interview on Hitz FM on March 11, Hannah said Drogba has not been well since the last season of the series. She added that they visit the hospital for once every week for treatment. She also noted that they are currently awaiting a result of a test which had been flown outside Ghana for diagnosis. “I think in his last season, if you can remember, he was not performing like he used to do in the previous season, he tried to act but could not. So, he has been in the house. “Right now, we are in the hospital because of his eyes, he is having double vision with the right eye, and he’s having pain with it. We come once every week for treatment and medications prescribed.” Hannah says her brother remains weak and only able to undertake some actions with help. She appealed for support from the public to assist her brother to recover fully. Credit: 3news

Ghanaian gospel musician MOG has said he is against LGBTQI activities just as the bible condemns the act. MOG has been in the news recently for refusing to publicly declare his stand on the assenting of the Anti-LGBTQI bill by President Akufo-Addo. Speaking in an interview on TV3’s New Day, MOG said he was misquoted by the reports. He explained that his refusal to comment was on the assenting and passing of the bill and not LGBTQI activities. He reiterated that as a Christian, he believes in what the scripture has said concerning LGBTQI activities and associates with that. “I am a Christian and stand with the scripture. I am not going to go against my faith and do something that is wrong. I just want to set the record straight that MOG has not failed to stand as a Christian, I believe in God and will not go against my faith,” he stressed on Wednesday, March 13. However, the award-winning gospel singer noted that he will not pass any comment or involve in discussions on the assenting of the Anti-LGBTQI bill by President Akufo-Addo. According to him, this has no relation to his Christian faith and urged his fellow Christians not to be perturbed by his decision on this stressing that “he is still focus on what he does.” “What I would not comment about is the passing of the bill and the bill being taken to court and the President’s refusal to sign the bill and I think Ghanaians should respect my position about this thing and it has nothing to do about my faith. “My Christian brothers and sisters should not have any shaky faith or anything. We are not going to perturbed by this to stop us from what God has assigned us to do,” he added. The Anti-LGBTQI bill is currently waiting President Akufo-Addo’s assent to finally be implemented into law. Meanwhile, a Ghanaian citizen has also filed a suit at the Supreme Court to prevent the President from assenting to the bill. Richard Dela Sky is of the view that the bill violates Article 33(5) of the Constitution of 1992, as well as the provisions of Articles 12(1) and (2), 15(1), 17(1) and (2), 18(2), and 21(1) (a) (b) (d) and (e) of the Constitution. Credit: 3news

Ranking Member of the Energy Committee of Parliament, John Jinapor has revealed that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) owes a staggering debt of $1.5 billion. Jinapor attributed this substantial debt to ECG’s failure to meet payments to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and its inability to fully settle bills for purchased electricity. He further criticized ECG’s purported wasteful expenditure on unnecessary supplies such as cables, dysfunctional meters, and what he deems as undeserved contracts. Highlighting the severity of the situation, Jinapor referenced a report from the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) he has sighted that indicates ECG’s tendency to mismanage funds, citing instances where substantial sums were not allocated to debt repayment but instead spent frivolously. “ECG owes $1.5 billion, when they take the money from Ghanaians, they fail to pay the IPPs and use the funds to do whatever they want with it and they fail to pay the full price of the power they purchase and PURC has brought a report that when ECG comes in possession of a substantial amount of money they refuse to pay the debt they owe, they spend the money recklessly, and this is an official report from the PURC" “Some of the things they buy, they don’t even need it, and now they want to be buying fuel, which is not even their core duty, all these are a reason the finances aren’t adding up,” he said. In a phone-in interview with Nana Yaa Brefo and Isaac Ekow JB on Onua FM, Jinapor emphasized the need for accountability, suggesting that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will report the accumulating arrears to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government fails to address the issue before the 2024 elections. According to IMF conditions, countries receiving assistance should not have arrears. If the arrears continue to accumulate, there might be another domestic debt exchange, where existing debt is restructured or replaced with new debt. Jinapor outlined that when such a situation happens at a time when the NDC has taken office, Ghanaians have the right to know where the debt crisis all began and how it started, hence their pending report to the IMF. He stressed that such debts ultimately burden all Ghanaians, necessitating collective responsibility for resolution to prevent adverse effects on the economy, including inflation and currency depreciation. Expressing concern over the repercussions of inaction, Jinapor warned of potential power disruptions as IPPs may cease operations if payments are not made promptly. He urged proactive measures to address the debt crisis, emphasizing the imperative of finding sustainable solutions to alleviate the financial strain on the country. “Now we would have to write to the IMF and report to them what is happening, because as part of the IMF conditions, there should be no arrears so if they keep building those arrears, there will be another domestic debt exchange. IMF will insist that the government should provision and pay for that difference. “We would have to pass it as a tariff, the debt is now for all Ghanaians, it’s not Akufo-Addo’s debt, he’s made the debt but Ghanaians will pay for it. “If we don’t pay for it, will be in jeopardy, the dollar rate will go high, commodities will be expensive, our debt will go higher and eventually they will have to impose another e-levy. “We shouldn’t think the debt is for someone else, it’s for Ghanaians and we have to deal with it, else the IPPs will shut their plants and won’t resupply power, we don’t have money to pay but we must find a way to pay,” he said. By Lois Dogbe

A Croatian-based Ghanaian, Hayford Okine has been awarded the new Guinness World Records holder for balancing objects. He was awarded the balancing record after he covered a record distance on a hoverboard on the set of Lo Show Dei Record in Milan, Italy. Hayford balanced ten glasses on a knife he held with his mouth over 30 metres (98.42ft) in January.  Prior to this new record, Hayford broke his own record set in the same month after he covered 20 metres (61.65 ft) of balancing on a hoverboard in Croatia in January this year. Hayford’s ability to defy gravity has cemented his status as the ‘King of Balance’ and now holds multiple world records for balancing objects. He has two new Guinness World Records in addition to his previous record obtained in 2021 for balancing sixteen steel chairs on his chin in ten seconds. Hayford begun his talent in Ghana where he was born before travelling to China for five years where he’s believed to have upped his talent. He moved to Croatia four years ago where is now permanently based. The ‘King of Balance’ has been to many talent shows in Europe – Italy, Germany, France, Slovakia, Greece, Spain and other countries. His performance at the ‘Bulgaria’s Got Talent’ on May 9, 2021 truly showcased his exceptional skill and drew the world’s attention to his talent. Performing in front of four judges and a large audience, he received a standing ovation during the show, and set his first Guinness World Record after balancing 16 steel chairs on his chin for ten seconds. Credit: 3news

Ghana’s beach volleyball teams faced disappointment as they were eliminated from the ongoing African Games tournament. Despite progressing from their groups to the quarterfinals, both the men’s and women’s teams were unable to secure victories to advance further. The men’s team showed promise by winning all four matches in the competition, including victories against Togo (2-1), Senegal (2-0), and Benin (2-0), before facing Algeria in the round of 12. However, their journey came to an end with a 2-0 defeat to Morocco in the quarterfinals, despite the presence of experienced player Seidu in the team. Seidu, reflecting on the team’s performance, commended their efforts but called for governmental support to enhance their game. “We are pleading to other departments like the ministry to push us. We need that cutting-edge level, playing difficult matches like in Europe to boost our confidence,” he emphasised. Coach Eden Chapnuor expressed disappointment at not achieving the desired outcome, deeming their quarterfinal exit a failure. “Me not getting what I want, I think I failed. Me coming out at the quarterfinal stage, I see it as a failure. I just wanted to get a medal,” the coach lamented. Following the men’s elimination, the focus shifted to the women’s team to maintain Ghana’s presence in the competition. However, they faced a formidable Mozambique side and suffered a straight-set defeat, unable to handle the pressure exerted by their opponents. The absence of Rashaka Katadat, who partnered with Juliana Otchere Aryee to qualify Ghana for the Commonwealth Games, was felt by the team. Aryee acknowledged the disruption but remained determined to perform well with whoever she was paired with. “Since we are humans, it really affected me, but I had to psych myself up and play better with whoever they paired me with,” she remarked. With their African Games journey over, both teams will focus on the intercontinental Paris 2024 Olympics qualifiers later this year, aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious event. Credit: 3news

Patients who went to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for medical attention have been left stranded as doctors have laid down their tools over challenges with accommodation. The doctors claim the constant eviction threat issued to some of them, does not give them the right frame of mind to work. The doctors are being evicted from their current official residence at Danyame to pave way for redevelopment. The doctors argued that they are not against the redevelopment but want a proper relocation arrangements. They’ve indicated that until the accommodation issue is resolved, they won’t resume duty. At the main Out-Patient-Department (OPD) of the hospital, many patients were visibly frustrated. “I came all the way from Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region to seek medical care, but unfortunately I have to return home without being attended to because doctors are on strike. This is really frustrating”, Ishmael Owusu lamented. Just like Ishmael, several other persons had to return home disappointed. “I have an appointment with the doctor today, but I’ve been here for the past 3 hours without being attended to. The nurses came to tell us doctors are not working today. So I’m waiting for a new date before I go home. If this is not resolved soon, some of us might end up dying”, 62-year old Agnes Antwi said. Managers of the hospital have however intervened to ensure the doctors attend to emergency cases. A meeting which will be attended by representatives of Management, the doctors association, Lands Commission, and the Regional Coordinating Council is scheduled to be held later in the day to address the issue. Credit: 3news

Renowned Ghanaian filmmaker, Shirley Frimpong Manso has shared valuable insight into handling criticism, particularly the negative kind. In her view, it is advisable for individuals to pay less attention to such criticism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus on one’s creative vision and goals. Her perspective comes from years of experience navigating the intricacies of the entertainment industry. As a trailblazing director and producer known for her critically acclaimed films, she understands the pressures and challenges that come with public scrutiny. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Doreen Avio, the founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sparrow Productions, highlighted the need for individuals to neglect harmful messages on social media and how they can overcome them. She made known that these messages are mostly targeted at media moguls in their fields of work. “You have to learn the act of closing your ears. People will come to you if you are a celebrity or a personality. Those that support you and even those that do not. It is one of the toughest lessons I learnt over the past few years. “You cannot dwell on the negatives; you do need to imbibe more on the positives. I close my ears and when I realize it’s full of negative energy, I don’t go around it” she said. Shirley also cautioned individuals to stay clear of the influence of social media,” he said. The movie producer and director, however advised consumers and users of social media to be critical of the content they share and consume. “When it comes to social media, we have to turn it off at some point. I don’t let it rule my life. I come there when I need to, and I don’t live or abide by the ‘rules’ of social media,” she added. She further asserted that sources of these hurtful messages sometimes come from unknown individuals or children and that individuals should not allow it to hurt them. She clarified with an experience she had with one of the comments she read. “I remember one time when I clicked on the profile of someone’s ‘nasty’ comment and it was a kid! I realized many of these people were just kids playing, so you cannot take it so seriously. You cannot completely rely on social media. Switch it off! It’s really good,” she emphasized. Credit: Ameyaw Debrah

Nollywood star, Rita Dominic has recently detailed the reason why she took a sabbatical leave from acting. The actress, who spoke at the 2024 Women of Valour Conference in Accra, Ghana disclosed that she gave up stardom in 2002 and moved to the United Kingdom (UK) because she was dealing with personal issues.’ According to her, while in the UK, she started working as a caregiver for adults with special needs. Rita averred that while some might view her job as a caregiver as a “step-down”, she didn’t because taking care of others brought her joy and purpose. “In 2001/2002 I stopped acting. I left the [movie] industry and moved to London because it was a very dark period in my life. I fell out with some friends I considered family. And I just gave up acting for a while. I needed to get out of that space for a minute. “And then I moved to London and gave up stardom. You won’t believe this, this is something I’ve never told people before. While in London, I was trying to make ends meet so I started working in a care home as a caregiver for adults with special needs. While some might view it as a step-down, I don’t. Taking care of others brought me joy and purpose at a time I needed it most,” she said. Credit: Ameyaw Debrah

Telecel, a leading telecommunications brand in Africa, has officially launched in Ghana to provide innovative telecommunications solutions to connect and empower customers and communities across Ghana. In February 2023, Telecel Group successfully completed the acquisition of 70% shares of Ghana Telecommunications Company Limited (GTCL) to become its majority shareholder. Within a year, the company has fully rebranded from Vodafone Ghana to Telecel Ghana. The brand was first unveiled to employees at an event dubbed the Telecel day at the Accra International Conference Centre. At a second ceremony held at the Labadi Beach Hotel, the Vice President, H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia unveiled the Telecel brand in the presence of a cross section of stakeholders including government and community representatives, media, industry leaders and customers. The event, dubbed Platinum Night was an exclusive high-level event which offered the opportunity to senior stakeholders to know the brand. As the special guest of honour at the event, Dr. Bawumia underscored the importance of telecommunications in today’s economy. He said, “Telecommunication plays a pivotal role in shaping our modern society. It bridges distances, connects people, and empowers communities. In today’s fast-paced world, access to reliable and efficient communication is not just a luxury but a necessity for socioeconomic development. It is also critical to Ghana’s digitization agenda, and I am particularly pleased that Telecel Group has decided to invest in Ghana. I believe it is testament to the conducive business environment created by deliberate and intentional policies by the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo government.” The final and big reveal was held at the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange amid exciting performances and solidarity messages from key stakeholders such as the Member of Parliament of Ayawaso West Wuogon, Hon. Lydia Seyram Alhassan. Telecel’s vision is to lead Africa’s digital revolution, connecting communities with sustainable and locally developed innovative connectivity methods, and inspiring technological advancements that pave the way for a thriving, interconnected continent. In Ghana, Telecel is focusing on significantly expanding its network coverage, aiming for 2500 4G sites within three years and targeting 100% satellite-to-mobile connectivity to ensure nationwide access across Ghana. Speaking at the brand unveil, the CEO of Telecel Group Moh Damush said, “We are thrilled to announce the launch of Telecel brand in Ghana, marking a significant milestone for Telecel and an opportunity to provide positive disruption, advancement, and innovation in Ghana. Telecel Group promises to put its heart and soul in the company, which is and will continue to be the flagship of Telecel in West Africa. As of today, Vodafone Ghana has become Telecel Ghana. Whatever the brand is, the origin will stay Ghana Telecommunication Company.” Telecel Ghana offers a wide range of telecommunications services, including mobile voice and data, broadband internet, mobile money, and value-added services. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Telecel Ghana is committed to empowering individuals, business, and communities with seamless and reliable connectivity to thrive in today’s digital world. Patricia Obo-Nai, CEO of Telecel Ghana said “Our business has evolved from offering basic telecommunication services to pioneering digital solutions across Ghana. This evolution was powered by our belief in innovation, commitment to excellence, and the vision to create a connected and empowered Ghana. We look forward to an exciting journey.” With the change in the brand name, the other two subsidiaries of the company have also changed to Telecel Cash and Telecel Foundation. All areas of operations have changed to Telecel, and customers will continue to enjoy the existing services on their 020 and 050 numbers. Credit: Ameyaw Debrah