In a powerful display of solidarity, the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative (RDGI) illuminated the Ministry of Health (MoH) building on February 28, 2025, to commemorate Rare Disease Day. The initiative, part of the global “Change of Light” campaign, aimed to raise awareness and advocate for improved healthcare access for individuals affected by rare diseases. RDGI Executive Director, Samuel Agyei Wiafe emphasized the significance of the event, highlighting Ghana’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in healthcare. Representing the Ministry, Public Health Specialist Mark Atuahene reaffirmed the government’s dedication to inclusivity, citing universal health coverage as a national priority. For patients and families affected by rare diseases, the event was a beacon of hope. Irene Appiah Adjetey, a patient and mother of a child with a rare disease, expressed gratitude for the recognition and advocacy efforts, urging continued action for lasting change. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government representatives, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups. They were present to push for improved diagnosis, treatment, and support systems for individuals living with rare diseases in Ghana. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has undertaken a large-scale clean-up exercise across key areas in the Central Business District (CBD) as part of efforts to improve sanitation in the capital. The exercise, which took place on Friday, February 28, 2025, covered major locations, including the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum, Asafoatse Nettey Road, Rawlings Park, and the Agbogbloshie Lorry Park. Organized under the auspices of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), the initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, which reintroduces the National Sanitation Day. Speaking after the clean-up, Engineer Solomon Noi, Director of Waste Management at the AMA, emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment. He urged traders and residents to stop indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly the habit of throwing plastic bags onto the streets. "For this particular clean-up, the focus was on sweeping, weeding, and brushing, but not desilting due to the duration of the exercise," Engineer Noi explained. He further disclosed that the newly introduced Regional Sanitation Day would be observed on the last Friday of every month and rotated across the three Sub-Metropolitan Areas of the AMA—Ashiedu Keteke, Ablekuma South, and Okaikoi South—to ensure sustainability. The clean-up exercise comes ahead of the March 6th Independence Day celebrations, reinforcing ongoing efforts to keep Accra clean and improve public health standards. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

Director of Allied Health at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, has emphasized the urgent need to prioritize the healthcare needs of individuals living with rare diseases in Ghana. He made this call while delivering a speech on behalf of Alhaji Hafiz Adam, Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, during the commemoration of the 2025 Rare Disease Day organized by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative in Accra on Friday. Dr. Awinibuno acknowledged the significant challenges faced by persons living with rare diseases, including limited access to diagnosis, treatment, and specialized care. He noted that despite the global impact of rare diseases—affecting over 300 million people worldwide, including many Ghanaians—there remains a general lack of awareness and resources to support affected individuals and their families. “The Ministry of Health recognizes the plight of persons living with rare diseases and remains committed to addressing their needs under the current national health policy, which promotes equity, inclusion, and collaboration among stakeholders,” he stated. “As a country, we must ensure that every individual receives the dignity and healthcare access they deserve, regardless of their medical condition.” Dr. Awinibuno stressed that many rare diseases are genetic in origin, predominantly affecting children, and called for increased efforts in early detection and intervention. He assured that the government would continue to develop strategies aimed at reducing the burden of rare diseases and integrating them into Ghana’s universal health coverage roadmap to ensure that no one is left behind. He urged all stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocacy groups, to work together to create awareness and improve healthcare services for individuals with rare diseases in Ghana. On his part, Executive Director, Rare Disease Ghana Initiative, Samuel Wiafe, underscored the financial and emotional toll of caring for individuals with rare diseases, calling for stronger support systems to ease the burden on affected families. Mr. Wiafe explained some families raising children with rare diseases often struggle to balance work and caregiving responsibilities. "With just one child living with a rare disease, you’ll be lucky to maintain your job. Otherwise, you may have to hire a caregiver, which comes with financial strain,” he explained. He emphasized the need for policies that provide financial relief and social support for families navigating these challenges. He also highlighted the importance of integrating rare disease care into Ghana’s universal health coverage agenda. “If we are able to provide adequate care for individuals with rare diseases, it means we are also strengthening our healthcare system to take care of people with common conditions,” he noted. Mr. Wiafe expressed optimism about global efforts to advance rare disease advocacy, particularly the United Nations and World Health Assembly (WHA) resolutions aimed at improving rare disease policies worldwide. He urged the Ministry of Health to support these resolutions, stressing that Ghana is already making strides toward meeting their targets through its national health plans. While acknowledging the significant investments required for rare disease research, diagnosis, and treatment, he encouraged continued collaboration among stakeholders. “These diseases may be rare, and the investments may be huge, but the little steps we take can create a layer of hope,” he stated. “Hope is not rare, and together, we can build a future where every person living with a rare disease receives the care they deserve.” Taking his turn, Professor at the University of Ghana Medical School, Prof. Ebenezer Vincent Baidoo hinted that infectious diseases in Ghana are on the decline due to significant progress in public health interventions, but genetic disorders are becoming increasingly prominent. Prof. Baidoo highlighted the country’s achievements in disease prevention, particularly in malaria control and immunization. “When I was a medical student, I would see cases of measles, whooping cough, and polio in the emergency room. I even witnessed children getting paralyzed in real time,” he recounted. “Today, medical students rarely encounter these diseases because of Ghana’s effective immunization programs.” However, he noted that while infectious diseases are decreasing, genetic disorders and speech and language impairments are becoming more prevalent. “We must recognize the shifting epidemiological landscape in Ghana. Genetic conditions are now making a significant contribution to disease burden,” he explained. Citing global statistics, Prof. Baidoo pointed out that congenital abnormalities and genetic factors affect approximately 4% to 5% of the population. He also referenced a statement from the Royal College of Physicians in the UK, which estimated that over one in five people will suffer from a genetic disease at some point in their lifetime. “Genetic disorders should now be at the forefront of our medical discussions,” he emphasized. “The era of infectious diseases is fading, and we are seeing a rise in genetic-linked conditions, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. These illnesses often have genetic origins, making it crucial for Ghana to prioritize genetic research, early detection, and specialized healthcare services.” Prof. Baidoo called for increased investment in genetic healthcare infrastructure, research, and education to better diagnose and manage these emerging health challenges. He urged policymakers and healthcare professionals to adapt to these epidemiological changes to ensure that Ghana’s healthcare system remains responsive to evolving medical needs. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

The Ga Mantse, His Royal Majesty King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has reiterated the Ga State’s unwavering commitment to education as a key driver of progress. Speaking at the climax of Accra Technical University’s (ATU) 75th-anniversary celebrations, he emphasized the role of education in empowering communities and preserving cultural heritage. "Through initiatives of the Ga Mantse Foundation, we continually champion educational empowerment," King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II stated. He underscored the importance of strong partnerships with leading institutions like ATU, pledging continued support for their growth and development. The Ga Mantse also charged students to embrace innovation and enterprise, urging them to apply their knowledge and relentlessly pursue excellence. Representing the Minister of Education, Haruna Iddrisu, the Director-in-charge of Tertiary, Dr. Emmanuel Newman highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between academia and industry. "I urge the management of Accra Technical University to put in place measures to deepen the relationship between the institution and industry to foster the development of a relevant workforce for our nation," he stated. Dr. Newman also disclosed the government's commitment to expanding infrastructure in tertiary institutions, calling on ATU’s alumni to contribute towards a 500-bed hostel, to be named the Alumni Hostel. ATU’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Amevi Acakpovi, lauded the Ga Mantse’s presence at the celebration, describing him as a visionary leader dedicated to education and youth development. "His commitment to education aligns perfectly with our vision at Accra Technical University. His passion continues to inspire transformation in Ghana’s academic landscape," Prof. Acakpovi remarked. The event marked a significant milestone in ATU’s history, reinforcing the university’s role in equipping students with skills to drive national development. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to the Free Senior High School (SHS) Programme, stating unequivocally that his administration will not cancel the initiative. Speaking during his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament, Mahama addressed concerns over the future of Free SHS, assuring Ghanaians that the program remains a top priority under his government. "Madam Speaker, Honourable Members, once again, for emphasis and for the record, I, John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will not cancel the Free SHS Programme," he declared. Prez. Mahama also outlined key educational reforms aimed at improving access to quality education, particularly in rural areas. He announced a 20% allowance for teachers who accept postings to underserved communities, emphasizing that district assemblies will play a vital role in ensuring teacher presence in selected schools. “This scheme will reward teachers for their sacrifices and ensure that quality education is accessible across the country, not just in urban centers,” he said. Additionally, Mr. Mahama introduced the Teacher Dam Break Initiative, which will see the construction of teacher accommodation units in rural areas to attract and retain educators. He further announced that going forward, no new school will be built without accompanying teachers' accommodation, a move aimed at addressing long-standing teacher shortages in rural Ghana. Mr. Mahama’s firm stance on Free SHS comes at a time when debates over the program’s sustainability and implementation challenges continue to dominate national discourse. His reaffirmation signals his administration’s commitment to enhancing and improving the initiative rather than abolishing it. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has outlined an ambitious plan to reform Ghana’s education sector, with a strong emphasis on technology integration, equity, and access to quality education for all learners, including those in deprived communities. Speaking during his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament, President Mahama announced that ICT training will be integrated into early childhood education, with a three-year expansion plan covering 300 classrooms, 30 centers of excellence, 1,000 teachers, and district teacher support teams. The initiative will focus on mathematics and literacy, ensuring that young learners are equipped with foundational digital skills. “This year, the Ministry of Education will fully implement a new curriculum for senior high technical schools and STEM schools" "We will also introduce a standardized national sign language for hearing-impaired learners from kindergarten to SHS and review the kindergarten and primary school curriculum to align with 21st-century learning,” President Mahama stated. To improve access to education, the government will scale up social intervention programs such as the Capitation Grant, Feeding Grant for Special Schools, and the government's BECE registration initiative, easing financial burdens on parents and ensuring that no child is left behind. President Mahama also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting inclusion and equity in education, particularly within Islamic and deprived communities. “The government will enhance and resource the Islamic Education Unit to recruit more Islamic and Arabic tutors for English-Arabic schools. We will also provide scholarships for brilliant but needy students from deprived areas to study medicine, law, and engineering,” he added. Additionally, Mahama pledged to establish STEM and TVET schools in underserved peri-urban areas and expand support for Islamic colleges of education with improved infrastructure and logistics. He further announced that youth in Zongo and deprived urban communities would be enrolled in the National Apprenticeship Program and offered free technical and vocational training to boost employment prospects. These initiatives, Mahama emphasized, reflect his administration’s dedication to modernizing Ghana’s education system, fostering inclusivity, and equipping the next generation with the skills needed for a technology-driven future. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has announced a 20% allowance for teachers who accept postings to rural schools, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to ensuring quality education across the country. Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament, President Mahama stressed that district assemblies would play a crucial role in monitoring and enforcing teacher presence in selected schools. According to him, the initiative seeks to reward the sacrifices of rural teachers while addressing the long-standing issue of teacher shortages in underserved areas. “This scheme will not only recognize the dedication of teachers serving in rural communities but also ensure that quality education is accessible nationwide—not just in urban centers,” Mahama stated. In addition to the allowance, he introduced the 'Teacher Dabia' Initiative, which will focus on constructing teacher accommodation units to improve the welfare of educators and attract more professionals to rural areas. He assured Parliament that no new school would be built in Ghana without accompanying teacher accommodation facilities. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to empowering women, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups by enhancing their capacity and providing them with access to finance to create their own jobs. Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament, President Mahama emphasized the urgent need to realign Ghana’s education system to meet the demands of the 21st century and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He pledged to champion policies that would equip the nation’s youth with critical digital skills, ensuring their competitiveness in today’s technology-driven job market. "As a country, we must provide meaningful and relevant education that prepares our youth for the realities of a fast-evolving world. The system we have inherited is outdated in many ways and must be reformed to reflect modern demands," President Mahama stated. He highlighted the One Million Coders program as a key initiative under his administration, designed to train young Ghanaians in coding, web and app development, digital marketing, and other essential digital skills. According to him, this initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and improve employability in the global digital economy. Furthermore, President Mahama stressed the importance of leveraging communication, technology, and information to foster innovation, particularly among young people. He assured Ghanaians that his government would work tirelessly to ensure quality education remains a top priority while addressing longstanding issues of low-earning incomes within the educational system. "We must commit ourselves to a national dialogue on education—one that ensures our policies reflect the aspirations of the Ghanaian people and the demands of the modern economy," he added. Mahama’s address comes at a time when Ghana continues to grapple with economic challenges and youth unemployment, making his commitment to educational and digital transformation a critical policy focus for his administration. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has painted a grim picture of Ghana’s economy and governance, stating that the nation is in crisis and requires urgent intervention. Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Thursday, the President expressed deep concern over the deteriorating economic conditions, mounting debt, and the scale of mismanagement he has inherited. “Our economy is in dire straits, which is putting it mildly. After an initial assessment of the books, we have discovered that our economic problems are far deeper than previously known,” President Mahama told the packed chamber. “We have inherited a country that is broken on many fronts, with staggering debts and glaring signs of reckless mismanagement of our resources.” According to the President, his administration has devised a comprehensive plan to address the economic crisis and restore growth. He emphasized the need for collective effort from all Ghanaians, assuring that his government is committed to resetting the nation on a path of prosperity. “When I decided to run for president again, I did so knowing the enormity of the task ahead. I was aware that huge challenges awaited me, but nothing could have fully prepared anyone for the reality of how deep our economy and governance structures have sunk,” he stated. Quoting a Ghanaian proverb, he remarked, “Our elders say that a frog’s true length can only be ascertained after it has died. And how right they were.” President Mahama called for national unity and resilience in the face of adversity, assuring that despite the severity of the situation, his government has the expertise and strategy to lead Ghana out of the economic turmoil. “The challenges before us are staggering, but we will overcome them. We will work with every Ghanaian to solve the problems confronting our nation,” he said. His address comes at a time when the nation grapples with high inflation, a depreciating currency, and significant fiscal challenges. President Mahama’s speech signals a call to action, urging all stakeholders to contribute to the national rebuilding effort. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

President John Dramani Mahama has commended Parliament for the prompt vetting and approval of his ministerial nominees, describing the process as unprecedented in the history of the Fourth Republic. Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in Parliament on Thursday, President Mahama lauded lawmakers for their efficiency, emphasizing that their swift action underscores a shared commitment to national service. "I wish to convey my heartfelt gratitude to Parliament for the prompt vetting and approval of my nominees for ministerial positions. This efficiency is unmatched in the history of the Fourth Republic, demonstrating the strides we can make when we come together in our dedication to serve the people of our great country," he stated. The President expressed hope that the same level of urgency would be applied to the approval of his deputy ministerial nominees to enable them to assume office swiftly and support the implementation of his administration’s vision for national transformation. Mahama also reflected on his return to the august House, nearly a decade after his last address to Parliament, acknowledging the weight of the electoral mandate given to him by Ghanaians. With an overwhelming majority in Parliament, the President assured the nation of his government’s commitment to resetting the country’s development trajectory through collaborative governance. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith

In the heart of Ghana, a young student named Ama rises before dawn. Her education journey involves a long trek across dusty paths, a testament to her determination amidst adversity. While Ama and many like her strive for a better future, a stark contrast exists in the nation's corridors of power. High-ranking officials enjoy substantial salaries and many benefits, highlighting a significant disparity in resource allocation. There is a pressing need for fiscal discipline and equitable resource distribution. While senior government officials benefit from luxurious perks, many Ghanaians, including schoolchildren, struggle to meet basic needs. Some students walk long distances to school, while others in Senior High Schools must manage with inadequate meals due to budgetary constraints. Meanwhile, public funds are used to sustain a life of luxury for a select few. Between 2017 and 2023, Ghana allocated approximately GHS114.5 billion to the education sector, with about GHS12.9 billion directed towards Senior High Schools. Despite these investments, challenges persist. In 2023, the education sector received only 12.97% of the national budget, falling below the international benchmark of 15-20%. This shortfall is evident in the daily struggles of students like Ama. In contrast, the compensation packages for some government officials are notably substantial. For instance, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana reportedly earns a monthly salary of approximately GHS195,538.80, excluding various allowances and benefits. Such figures underscore the disparity between the earnings of top officials and the investments in critical public sectors. Several nations offer models of prudent fiscal management. Norway, for example, channels its oil wealth into the Government Pension Fund Global, emphasizing long-term stability over immediate luxury. This approach ensures investments in free quality education and healthcare, benefiting all citizens. Similarly, Rwanda has implemented stringent measures to cut wasteful spending, redirecting funds to essential services like education and healthcare. The recent controversy surrounding the former Managing Director of SIC Insurance Company Limited, Ms Hollistar Duah-Yentumi, further highlights public concerns over government expenditures. Reports revealed that she was receiving an annual salary of GH₵840,000, approximately GH₵70,000 per month, along with numerous benefits, including a fully furnished residence, a company vehicle with a driver, comprehensive healthcare for herself and her family, salaries for house help, gardener, and 30 days of paid vacation. These revelations sparked widespread public outrage, especially considering the country's ongoing economic struggles. A nation's budget should reflect its priorities. Ghana must adopt a transparent and fair approach to resource allocation, ensuring that all citizens benefit equitably from national wealth. Leaders must set an example by curbing unnecessary spending and prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, and innovative ideas that drive national progress. Our leaders must demonstrate a commitment to the people by embracing responsible spending and prioritizing policies that uplift the nation. It is essential to implement strong financial management systems that promote accountability and fiscal discipline. Ghana's future depends on how wisely we manage our resources. It is time for leaders to prioritize the people by ensuring transparency, cutting wasteful spending, and investing in critical sectors that bridge the inequality gap and set the nation toward sustainable development." With mounting concerns over economic hardship and disparities in resource allocation, the call for financial responsibility in governance continues to resonate. Only through equitable spending and transparent policies can Ghana achieve long-term prosperity for all its citizens.     Disclaimer: Views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position of ThinkNewsOnline.com Credit: Roselyn Mawufemor Fiagbe, Policy Analyst

Ernest Adomako, Member of Parliament for Okaikwei South Constituency, has emphasized the need for a thorough review of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy to enhance its effectiveness and sustainability. Speaking on an Accra-based television network ahead of President John Mahama’s first State of the Nation Address today, Adomako acknowledged the significance of the policy but stressed that improvements are necessary to address its challenges. “The Free SHS policy is a great initiative that has helped many families and students, but its implementation has faced several hurdles. That is why President Mahama has promised a comprehensive review to ensure that the policy is more efficient and beneficial for all,” Ernest Adomako stated. He highlighted concerns regarding infrastructure deficits, inadequate teaching resources, and challenges faced by both students and teachers under the current system. According to him, a structured review process involving key stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and educational experts, will ensure that the policy is refined to meet the needs of the education sector. “As a government, we are committed to making sure that education remains accessible and of high quality. However, we must ensure that the implementation process does not compromise standards. The review will not be a partisan approach but a collective effort to strengthen the policy,” he added. Ernest Adomako also reiterated his personal commitment to improving education within his constituency. He revealed that he had already initiated renovation projects in several public schools in collaboration with Ga Mantse Foundation to enhance the learning environment for students. “We have started renovating public schools in Okaikwei South because we recognize that quality education requires not only access but also the right infrastructure and resources. Our priority is to complement government efforts in ensuring that our children receive the best possible education,” he noted. As President Mahama prepares to deliver his first State of the Nation Address, many Ghanaians will be keen to hear his plans for the education sector, particularly regarding the future of the Free SHS policy and its anticipated review. Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith