Health – Business Week Ghana https://businessweekghana.com Accurate Relevant Revealing Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:30:45 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://businessweekghana.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/236876004_233005352166311_6788365974847027779_n-150x150.jpeg Health – Business Week Ghana https://businessweekghana.com 32 32 Ghana to ban styrofoam food containers, others from January 2027 over health and environmental concerns – EPA https://businessweekghana.com/ghana-to-ban-styrofoam-food-containers-others-from-january-2027-over-health-and-environmental-concerns-epa/ Thu, 12 Nov 2026 08:00:24 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=74027
By Kofi Ahovi, Antalya- Türkiye

Courtesy Jospong Group

Ghana will prohibit the importation, manufacture, distribution, sale and use of styrofoam food containers and related products from January 1, 2027, as part of efforts to address growing health and environmental concerns associated with single-use plastics.

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) says the ban is intended to reduce pollution, protect public health and encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly alternatives to styrofoam packaging.

The Ashanti Regional Director of EPA, Dr. Jackson Adiyiah Nyantakyi, who outlined the policy and its implementation roadmap, said styrofoam products posed significant environmental challenges because of their chemical composition, durability and inability to biodegrade easily.

Speaking on behalf of the CEO of EPA, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, at a side event at COP 31 in Antalya- Türkiye, he explained that the lightweight nature of the products made them easily dispersed by wind, contributing to littering and drainage blockages across communities.

He said the materials also presented serious challenges for waste management because they were difficult and expensive to recycle.

Because of its lightweight nature, it spreads very easily when it gets into the environment, and people dispose of it anyhow. This contributes to the sanitation and drainage challenges we have in the country,” he said.

Dr. Nyantakyi said the decision followed a directive by President John Dramani Mahama on June 5, 2025, asking the EPA to develop a roadmap towards phasing out styrofoam food containers in Ghana.

He said the policy was also informed by concerns about the potential health effects of chemicals associated with the products, including substances linked to cancer.

According to him, styrofoam materials contain chemical components that could pose health risks, while their breakdown into smaller particles contributes to the growing problem of microplastics in the environment.

He noted that microplastics had been detected in various environmental systems, with scientific research also raising concerns about their presence in the human bloodstream.

Dr. Nyantakyi said the government was therefore prioritising public health and environmental protection in implementing the ban.

The vision is that people should live long. You can make money, but if you do not have the life to enjoy that money, then what is the benefit?” he said, dismissing concerns that the policy was intended to undermine businesses.

Industry engagement

Addressing concerns about the potential impact on businesses and people employed in the styrofoam manufacturing and distribution chain, the EPA said it had begun engaging manufacturers, importers, wholesalers and retailers ahead of the implementation date.

The Authority said the engagements were intended to give industry players sufficient time to clear existing stocks, adjust their operations and explore alternative products before the ban takes effect.

The EPA Director for Greater Accra-East region, Samuel Oteng, who was involved in the implementation process said importers had been advised to stop placing new orders, taking into consideration the estimated two-to-three-month importation cycle.

He mentioned that the EPA was also working with local manufacturers to encourage them to explore other products and business opportunities.

The authority indicated that only a limited number of companies, estimated at about six, were involved in local production of the affected products.

Dr. Nyantakyi explained that the transition would be managed through continued consultations with industry players to minimise disruptions and prevent businesses from being taken by surprise.

Alternative packaging

On alternatives, Dr. Nyantakyi encouraged the public and businesses to return to traditional biodegradable materials, including leaves used for wrapping and serving food.

He also identified plant-based packaging materials and paper containers as possible substitutes for styrofoam products.

He said the availability of environmentally friendly alternatives would be critical to ensuring a smooth transition and encouraging consumers and food vendors to adopt sustainable packaging practices.

The EPA said public education and sensitisation activities had already begun to prepare communities for the change, with particular attention to retailers, market operators, food vendors and consumers.

It expressed confidence that sustained stakeholder engagement would help secure public cooperation and ensure that the ban was implemented effectively from January 2027.

The policy forms part of Ghana’s broader efforts to address plastic pollution, improve sanitation and promote more sustainable approaches to production, consumption and waste management.

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Buying Medicine Is Not Enough: Pharmacist Urges Ghanaians To Take Medication Use More Seriously https://businessweekghana.com/buying-medicine-is-not-enough-pharmacist-urges-ghanaians-to-take-medication-use-more-seriously/ Tue, 03 Nov 2026 16:48:50 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=73857 From rushing to collect prescriptions to stopping medication once symptoms disappear, the way many Ghanaians approach medicines could be undermining their health. Experts has therefore urged the public to pay greater attention to how medicines are prescribed, stored and used, warning that taking medication without understanding the instructions can compromise treatment and create avoidable health risks.

The caution was raised during Episode 21 of the Timekeeping Dialogue Series under the theme ‘’Every Minute Counts- When Time is a live saver’’ which explored everyday Ghanaian attitudes towards time and how that influences healthcare decisions.

Hosted by Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, a communications for change advocate, the session featured Dr Akosua Bandoh, a pharmacist with Bandy Chemists, and Dr Bright Sasu Baabu, Medical Director of Acacia Medical Centre.

Medicine, Timekeeping Dialogue Series
Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, Communications for Change Advocate

According to the experts a key concern was the tendency to treat medicine as a quick solution rather than part of a broader healthcare process. For some patients, the priority is simply to obtain the medication, get home and return to their daily activities. Others discontinue treatment as soon as they feel better, miss doses or fail to seek clarification when instructions are unclear.

Dr. Akosua Bandoh said these habits could affect the effectiveness of treatment, emphasising that medication is only beneficial when used correctly.

She explained that the timing and frequency of medication are carefully determined by factors such as how a drug works, how quickly the body eliminates it and the concentration needed in the bloodstream to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. Consequently, taking medication at irregular intervals, changing prescribed doses or ignoring instructions about food could compromise treatment outcomes.

As a patient, it is your right to ask questions. Please don’t be in a hurry to leave the pharmacy,” she advised.

She encouraged patients to use pharmacy visits as opportunities to understand their treatment, asking questions about dosage, timing, possible side effects and foods or other substances that should be avoided while taking particular medicines.

The pharmacist also highlighted the importance of paying attention to medication expiry dates and storage conditions. She cautioned that some medicines have a shorter usable life after opening or preparation, even when the date printed on the packaging has not been reached.

She advised patients to store medicines in cool, dry places away from direct sunlight and heat, retain them in their original packaging and keep them out of children’s reach. She also warned against combining herbal preparations with prescription medicines without professional guidance, as some combinations could result in harmful interactions.

Dr. Sasu Baabu, on his  part cautioned that the disappearance of symptoms did not always mean an underlying condition has been fully treated.

Feeling better is not the same as being better,” he said, urging patients to follow prescribed treatment and consult their doctors or pharmacists before making changes to their medication.

He noted that prematurely stopping antibiotics, for example, could leave infections incompletely treated and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. Patients who miss doses, he advised, should seek professional guidance rather than independently doubling subsequent doses or changing their treatment schedules.

The Timekeeping Project is a social change and Communications for Development (C4D) advocacy initiative spearheaded by TLC – Transformational Leadership Concepts. The initiative seeks to cultivate a stronger culture of punctuality and respect for time in Ghana by addressing the persistent challenge of lateness and its impact on productivity, accountability, and national development.

Convened by Togbe Kwasinyi Kakakloko Agyeman V, Chief of Adidome, and Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, a Communications for Development advocate, the project brings together traditional leaders, policymakers, professionals, civil society actors, and development practitioners to champion positive behavioural change and promote time consciousness as a catalyst for personal, organizational, and national progress.

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MTN Ghana, partners organise health walk and free screening in Sunyani https://businessweekghana.com/mtn-ghana-partners-organise-health-walk-and-free-screening-in-sunyani/ Mon, 05 Oct 2026 13:41:19 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=73447 MTN Ghana, in partnership with the Sunyani Municipal Health Directorate and Sunyani-based Suncity Radio, organised a health walk and free medical screening in Sunyani as part of activities marking the company’s 30th anniversary.

The exercise, which attracted a large crowd including members of keep-fit clubs and football enthusiasts, was aimed at promoting physical fitness and encouraging residents to undertake regular health checks.

Participants marched through some principal streets of Sunyani to brass band music before converging at the Sunyani Coronation Park for a workout session.

The health walk and screening formed part of MTN Ghana’s community engagement activities to promote healthy lifestyles and strengthen its engagement with communities in its operational areas.

The participants were screened for a range of health conditions, including blood pressure, HIV, eye conditions, ear, nose and throat (ENT) conditions, breast abnormalities and Hepatitis B.

General medical consultations were also provided free of charge.

Participants found to have serious health conditions were referred to specialised health facilities for further assessment and treatment.

The Bono Regional Manager of MTN Ghana, Kofi Owusu, said the screening formed part of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts to support its customers and give back to communities.

He said the exercise was also intended to raise awareness about the importance of regular health checks and healthy lifestyles.

We were expecting at least 500 people to be screened at the end of the exercise,” Owusu said.

As part of efforts to improve customer service and accessibility, he said MTN Ghana had opened a new office branch in Berekum, including shops serving customers in Berekum, Dormaa Ahenkro, Sampa and other parts of the region.

MTN Ghana, the country’s largest telecommunications operator, has been marking its 30th anniversary with a range of community-focused activities, including initiatives aimed at promoting social and economic wellbeing.

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CEANA to pursue cancer centre in Ho, healthcare partnership with Bank of Ghana Hospital https://businessweekghana.com/ceana-to-pursue-cancer-centre-in-ho-healthcare-partnership-with-bank-of-ghana-hospital/ Sun, 27 Sep 2026 08:59:43 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=73320 The Council of Ewe Associations of North America (CEANA) has announced plans to advance the establishment of a modern Cancer Research and Treatment Centre in Ho in partnership with the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS).

The initiative formed part of commitments adopted at the 33rd Annual CEANA Convention held in Bethesda, Maryland, from September 3 to 7, 2026, under the theme “Preserving Culture, Inspiring Generations.”

According to the official communiqué issued by the CEANA Secretariat, the proposed centre is intended to address challenges associated with access to specialised cancer care in Eweland, covering communities in Ghana, Togo and Benin.

“CEANA will pursue the next phases of this project with urgency,” the communiqué stated.

It said the next stages would include structural design, medical partnerships, financing and regulatory processes.

“Every milestone achieved will be communicated to the community, for this project is a covenant of healing,” CEANA said.

Healthcare workforce partnership

CEANA also announced a new partnership with the Bank of Ghana Hospital aimed at facilitating the exchange and deployment of skilled healthcare professionals.

The communiqué said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CEANA and the Bank of Ghana Hospital on September 7, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in Eweland.

Under the partnership, CEANA said diaspora doctors, nurses, specialists and technicians would be mobilised to support healthcare delivery.

CEANA and the Bank of Ghana Hospital will immediately begin outlining the operational framework,” the organisation stated.

It added that further updates would be provided as implementation of the partnership progresses.

Diaspora investment

The convention also placed emphasis on using the economic and professional resources of the Ewe diaspora to support development in Eweland.

Through a series of business forums, delegates examined opportunities for productive investment, professional exchanges and cross-border collaboration.

CEANA said it was moving beyond discussions towards building partnerships that could translate diaspora expertise and resources into economic opportunities.

“CEANA is shifting from conversation to action,” the communiqué stated.

The organisation said it would work towards creating ecosystems that enable Ewe professionals to thrive internationally while contributing to development in their homelands.

Strengthening accountability

Governance and accountability also featured prominently at the convention, with members engaging in discussions on CEANA’s governance structures, project impact and long-term strategy.

The organisation committed to strengthening its accountability mechanisms, including assigning clear responsibility for projects and financial decisions.

Every project and financial decision will have a clearly assigned owner,” CEANA said.

It also committed to institutionalising transparent communication and regular reporting, describing leadership of the organisation as a “sacred trust.”

Focus on cultural preservation

The convention also reaffirmed CEANA’s commitment to preserving Ewe culture and identity.

Cultural activities during the convention included a Masquerade and Cultural Night, Kente Ball, Thanksgiving service and community picnic.

CEANA said future conventions would continue to focus on language preservation, cultural education and artistic expression.

“Culture is the soul of a people,” the organisation said, adding that it would work to safeguard and elevate the Ewe cultural legacy for future generations.

Youth empowerment

Youth participation was another major component of the convention, with CEANA Noviwo organising a parallel programme featuring a career panel, cookout, field day, diaspora brunch and discussions on identity under the theme “Ewe by Day, American by Night.”

The communiqué said young Ewe leaders also played significant roles in planning and executing the convention.

CEANA committed to expanding mentorship, leadership participation and cultural education opportunities for young people.

“Our young people will be empowered to carry the torch of Ewe identity into the future,” the organisation stated.

Looking ahead

The convention brought together members of the Ewe diaspora in North America for discussions on cultural preservation, healthcare, development, investment and youth empowerment.

CEANA expressed appreciation to the Ewe Association of Washington, DC Metro Inc., which hosted the convention, as well as volunteers, speakers, traditional leaders, artists, sponsors, partners and attendees.

The organisation said the commitments reached in Bethesda were intended to serve as concrete actions rather than symbolic declarations.

“As we depart Maryland, we look toward Boston 2027 with renewed unity, compassion, and determination,” the communiqué stated.

The next CEANA convention is scheduled to take place in Boston in 2027.

This version keeps the claims attributed to CEANA and avoids adding details that are not contained in the communiqué.

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JICA, Noguchi Institute, World Health Organisation Strengthen Laboratory Skills and Capacity of Six African Countries https://businessweekghana.com/jica-noguchi-institute-world-health-organisation-strengthen-laboratory-skills-and-capacity-of-six-african-countries/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:02:25 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=72129 The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in partnership with the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) and key partners, through the 2026 Third Country Training Programme, have strengthened the laboratory skills and capacity for infectious disease detection, diagnosis and response among African health professionals from six countries.

The training programme, hosted at NMIMR at the University of Ghana, brought together representatives from JICA, the Embassy of Japan in Ghana, the World Health Organisation (WHO), the University of Ghana, and other stakeholders committed to enhancing health security across the continent.

Eight healthcare professionals from Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo and Zambia participated in the blended eight-week course. The training had an online phase held from April 20 to May 15, 2026, followed by an in-person practical phase at NMIMR’s Advanced Research Laboratories from June 1 to June 26, 2026.

The selected health professionals underwent training in Parasitology, Bacteriology, Virology, Biosafety, Biosecurity and Laboratory Quality Management Systems.

Reiterating  JICA’s commitment to the advancement of healthcare in Ghana and beyond, Mr. Takayuki Uchiyama, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, said: “JICA is committed to strengthening laboratory capacity and biomedical research networks across Africa. The Third Country Training programme was launched in 2019 in response to the West Africa Ebola outbreak. Since then, JICA and NMIMR have trained 80 biomedical scientists from West Africa, Central Africa, and other African countries, contributing to improved diagnostics, surveillance, and regional outbreak response.”

Professor Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Director of NMIMR, praised the partnership with JICA, the Embassy of Japan and WHO, and highlighted the programme’s evolution into a flagship capacity-building initiative addressing COVID-19, Marburg, Lassa fever, Mpox and other emerging threats.

JICA, Noguchi Institute, World Health Organisation Strengthen Laboratory Skills and Capacity of Six African CountriesProfessor Alfred Edwin Yawson, Provost of the College of Health Sciences, commended the sustained partnership and importance of practical skills for outbreak preparedness.

Dr Sally-Anne Ohene, representing the World Health Organisation, emphasised that resilient laboratory systems, underpinned by continuous training, mentorship and collaboration, are essential for timely detection and response to public health emergencies.

Mr. Takuma Teratani, First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan, reaffirmed Japan’s support for strengthening laboratory and surveillance capacity across Africa.

A media statement from JICA Ghana, sourced from its Public Relations Advisor, Mr John Kojo Williams, indicated that since the inception of the JICA–NMIMR Third Country Training Course, 80 health professionals across the continent have been specially trained, thereby strengthening regional capacity in disease surveillance, diagnostics, and research. JICA is committed to doing more, the statement reassured.

The successful completion of this year’s course reinforces the longstanding JICA–NMIMR partnership and shared vision of advancing health security through knowledge exchange, skills development and regional cooperation.

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MTN Ghana’s 30th Anniversary Y’ello Care Campaign Delivers Major Healthcare Boost https://businessweekghana.com/mtn-ghanas-30th-anniversary-yello-care-campaign-delivers-major-healthcare-boost/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 16:52:57 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=71927 As MTN Ghana marks 30 years of connecting and empowering communities across the country, the company is extending its impact to healthcare facilities nationwide. Thousands of patients are expected to benefit from improved healthcare delivery following the refurbishment of 3,888 hospital beds and essential medical equipment under MTN’s 21 Days of Y’ello Care initiative, in partnership with DOSH Foundation, Sika Pɛ Adwuma Co. Ltd and seven hospitals nationwide.

This year’s 21 Days of Y’ello Care project was designed to improve patient comfort, ease pressure on healthcare workers, and support national efforts to address Ghana’s persistent no-bed syndrome.

Refurbished Hospital beds and Accessories

As part of this initiative, MTN employees refurbished faulty hospital-owned medical equipment, including hospital beds, ward screens, drip stands, metallic cabinets, and three-in-one patient chairs. The restored equipment was then handed back to the seven beneficiary hospitals: Achimota Hospital, Maamobi General Hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ho Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, and Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital, extending the lifespan of these critical assets and improving patient care.

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Programme

MTN Ghana employee volunteers also implemented Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programmes in schools across all 16 regions of Ghana to promote good hygiene and healthy learning environments.

A total of 16 basic schools benefited from this initiative. Beneficiary schools in the Greater Accra Region were Osu Presbyterian School and the Dansoman Cluster of Schools. In the regions, beneficiary institutions included Zogbeli Cluster Block A JHS, Damongo Girls Model School, Walewale Catholic School, Sefwi Dwenase Basic School, Kansaworodo Roman Catholic Basic School, RIIS Presbyterian Model School B&C, Bantama Akyinin M/A Basic School, Tanoso Roman Catholic Basic School, Sonsuaso L/A School, Methodist School at Odomase, SDA JHS Techiman, Fiave M/A Basic School, Bolgatanga Preparatory Model School, and Wa Catholic Basic School.

Community Health Screening

Employee volunteers, working alongside healthcare professionals, also conducted health screening exercises in communities and institutions across the country. Beneficiary institutions included the Senior Correctional Centre at Roman Ridge in Accra, Essikado Market, Elmina Fishing Harbour, Bantama Fishing Harbour, Akyem Dwenase Community Centre, Nkroakan Market, Taviefe Community Centre, Kwatire Polyclinic, Kintampo Municipal Hospital, Juaben Municipal Hospital, Sawla District Hospital, Anigazanga Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital in Jirapa, and Damongo Girls Model School.

Speaking at the national handover ceremony at Achimota Hospital on June 26, 2026, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer of MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe, said the initiative reflected the company’s commitment to ensuring that its 30-year presence in Ghana translates into meaningful improvements in people’s lives. “As we planned this year’s Y’ello Care programme, we asked ourselves a simple question: what does 30 years in Ghana truly mean if it does not show up in the lives of the people we serve? That question shaped everything we decided to do,” she said.

Y’ello Care, MTNMadam Wiafe explained that MTN initially set a target of refurbishing 3,000 hospital beds and accessories but exceeded that goal through the dedication of staff volunteers and the expertise of its implementation partner, Sika Pɛ Adwuma Co. Ltd.

We wanted to respond directly to a real need within Ghana’s healthcare system. This initiative was our response to the no-bed syndrome that has frustrated patients, families and healthcare workers for far too long. Today, together with our partner, Sika Pɛ Adwuma Co. Ltd., we have refurbished 3,888 hospital beds and accessories,” she said.

Wiafe noted that beyond refurbishing hospital equipment, this year’s Y’ello Care campaign also promoted preventive healthcare by supporting hygiene education in schools, organising community health outreaches, and assisting patients unable to pay their medical bills.

She disclosed that the MTN employee volunteers with their partners installed 30 handwashing facilities in 16 schools across all 16 regions, reaching more than 15,000 pupils with hygiene education, and organised health outreaches in 16 communities. Through a partnership with the DOSH Foundation, 70 patients received financial support to clear their medical bills and return home, with each beneficiary also enrolled onto a health insurance package valued at GH¢9,000

Receiving the refurbished equipment on behalf of the beneficiary institutions, the Medical Superintendent of Achimota Hospital, Dr. Jackline Anita Sowah, described the intervention as timely and impactful. “The refurbished medical equipment comes at a critical time when demand for quality healthcare services continues to rise. These interventions will significantly improve patient comfort, strengthen service delivery, reduce pressure on our resources, and contribute to addressing the challenge of the no-bed syndrome.”

MTN, Healthcare, Y'ello CareShe thanked MTN Ghana and Sika Pɛ Adwuma Co. Ltd. for selecting Achimota Hospital to host the national handover ceremony, and for extending similar support to six other health facilities across the country. She also extended appreciation of DOSH Foundation for coming to the aid of patients who were unable to pay their medical bills.

The nationwide intervention formed part of MTN Ghana’s 21 Days of Y’ello Care, the company’s flagship employee volunteerism programme. Organised under the theme, “Expand Equitable Health for Every Community”, employees dedicated their time, skills and resources to initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and promoting healthier communities across the country.

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Chamber of Mines, Zijin Golden Ridge Donate Eight-Month Supply of Sanitary Towels to Over 1,000 School Girls in New Abirem https://businessweekghana.com/chamber-of-mines-zijin-golden-ridge-donate-eight-month-supply-of-sanitary-towels-to-over-1000-school-girls-in-new-abirem/ Sat, 04 Jul 2026 13:35:22 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=71876 The Ghana Chamber of Mines, in partnership with Zijin Golden Ridge Limited, has donated an estimated eight-month supply of sanitary towels to 1,036 school girls from 16 basic and senior high schools in the company’s host communities at New Abirem under the Chamber’s annual Purple Peach Project.

The initiative seeks to improve menstrual health management, reduce school absenteeism and ensure that menstruation does not become a barrier to girls’ education.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, explained that the Purple Peach Project was conceived after the Chamber observed that many girls in underserved communities were missing classes during their menstrual periods because they could not afford sanitary products.

He noted that the initiative was established to remove this barrier by providing menstrual hygiene products alongside education on menstrual health.

The Chamber recognised that something as natural as menstruation should never prevent a girl from achieving her dreams. Through the Purple Peach Project, we have committed ourselves to supporting girls every year so they can remain in school with dignity and confidence,” he said.

Nantogmah explained that the programme is implemented on a rotational basis across the host communities of member companies of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, ensuring that girls in different mining communities benefit each year. Previous editions have been held in Accra and the Volta Region, while this year’s project was hosted in the Eastern Region through the support of Zijin Golden Ridge Limited.

Sanitary Towels, Chamber of Mines,  Zijin Golden RidgeIn addition to the donation, beneficiaries participated in a comprehensive menstrual hygiene education session led by health professionals, who provided guidance on menstrual health management, personal hygiene and reproductive health. Organisers said the educational component is designed to dispel myths and stigma surrounding menstruation while equipping girls with the knowledge and confidence to manage their periods safely and hygienically.

To ensure the sustainability of the intervention, Zijin Golden Ridge Limited announced that it will organise periodic menstrual hygiene education programmes in the participating schools to reinforce healthy practices and provide continuous support to the girls.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ing. Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, described the initiative as an investment in the dignity, confidence and future of young girls rather than simply a charitable donation.

He observed that many girls across Ghana continue to miss school because they lack access to menstrual hygiene products and stressed that no child should have to choose between managing her health and pursuing her education.

Dr. Ashigbey noted that the Purple Peach Project reflects the mining industry’s commitment to responsible and sustainable development, highlighting the significant investments made by member companies in education, healthcare, water and sanitation, infrastructure, skills development and economic empowerment within their host communities.

He further stated that the initiative contributes directly to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) by promoting menstrual health, reducing school absenteeism and advancing menstrual dignity.

Dr. Ashigbey encouraged the beneficiaries to remain focused on their education, believe in their abilities and seize every opportunity available to them, emphasising that education remains the surest pathway to transforming lives and communities.

In his welcome remarks, the management of Zijin Golden Ridge Limited reaffirmed the company’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of girls in its host communities, noting that sustainable community development extends beyond infrastructure to safeguarding the dignity, health and confidence of young people.

The company described its partnership with the Ghana Chamber of Mines on the Purple Peach Project as part of its broader commitment to responsible mining and sustainable community development.

The sanitary towels distributed under this year’s Purple Peach Project are expected to last each beneficiary for approximately eight months, providing sustained support that will help ensure that period poverty does not interrupt the girls’ education throughout the academic year.

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Newmont Supports University of Ghana Health Services with Critical Medical Equipment https://businessweekghana.com/newmont-supports-university-of-ghana-health-services-with-critical-medical-equipment/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:08:03 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=71821 Newmont has supported the University of Ghana Health Services at Legon with a donation of essential medical equipment valued at over GHS 290,000, reinforcing its commitment to safety and strengthening healthcare delivery in Ghana.

The equipment was donated following a request from the Internal Medicine Department of the facility, which provides care to a large number of patients, including emergency and critically ill cases. The unit had been facing challenges due to limited medical equipment, affecting workflow efficiency and patient outcomes.

Originally established to serve university staff and their dependents, the University of Ghana Health Services facility has, over time, evolved into a district-level hospital. It now provides care to surrounding communities within Legon and beyond, receiving referrals from as far as the Mampong Hospital in the Eastern Region. This growing demand has further underscored the need for adequate equipment to support quality care.

To help strengthen care delivery, Newmont provided a range of essential equipment, including patient monitors, hospital beds with mattresses, infusion pumps, an ECG machine, suction machines, ward screens, drip stands and bedside cabinets. These resources are expected to enhance patient monitoring, treatment and comfort, while supporting healthcare professionals in delivering quality care.

Newmont, Ghana Health Services, Medical EquipmentReceiving the items on behalf of the facility, Professor Gordon Abeka Nkrumah, Hospital Management Committee Chair, described the support as timely and impactful:

This support came at a very critical time for us. This facility cares for a high volume of patients each month, many of them in urgent and critical conditions. Having access to the right equipment will significantly improve how we monitor, treat and care for our patients. It will also ease the pressure on our staff and help us deliver safer, more effective care. We are truly grateful to Newmont for responding to our need in such a meaningful way.”

Presenting the equipment, David Johnson, Director for External Relations and Communications for Newmont reaffirmed the company’s commitment to health, safety and community wellbeing:

We recognize that one of the key challenges in healthcare delivery is the availability of critical medical equipment. Even the most skilled professionals cannot function effectively without the tools they need. For us at Newmont, responding to this need is how we make a meaningful difference.”

This donation builds on Newmont’s recent contributions to healthcare, including the provision of essential medical equipment to Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, as well as financial support to the Ayawaso North Municipal Health Directorate and the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research to advance health awareness campaigns. It underscores Newmont’s broader commitment to supporting health initiatives and contributing to sustainable development in Ghana. By strengthening healthcare delivery systems, the company continues to play its part in improving lives and building resilient communities.

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Prudential Bank Goes ‘Prevention First’ with Free Health Screening for Staff. https://businessweekghana.com/prudential-bank-goes-prevention-first-with-free-health-screening-for-staff/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:42:32 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=71766 Prudential Bank has rolled out a comprehensive, fully funded health screening exercise for its employees, reinforcing its belief that a healthy workforce is the bedrock of dependable banking.

The initiative, running this month in partnership with Bob Freeman Hospital, an SIC-owned health facility, is part of the Bank’s Wellness Month and reflects a strategic shift from treating issues to catching it early, before it becomes a crisis.

The timing of the screening, deliberately scheduled during June, which is globally recognised as Wellness Month, underlines the Bank’s dedication to preventive care rather than reactive treatment.

Prudential Bank, Health ScreeningSpeaking on the importance of this exercise, Head of Human Resources, Lilian Antwiwaa Asante emphasised that the Bank believes that its people are its greatest asset and that the health of staff is not just a personal matter, but a strategic priority.

“We want every staff member to know their numbers, catch potential issues early and then see how we can all take proactive steps towards healthier lives. That is why we bear the full cost of this exercise.”

She added that the bank is not just “talking” wellness but rather, investing in it.

“This is a tangible expression of what our slogan stands for: dependability.  The is because dependability starts with taking care of our own.”

Prudential Bank, Health ScreeningAccording to Head of Public Relations at the Bank, Bennet Frimpong, this drive is part of a broader wellness strategy that includes mental health awareness, ergonomic workstations, regular wellness tips, amongst others.

He added that as Ghanian businesses increasingly recognise the link between employee health and productivity, Prudential Bank stands out as a key driver in workplace wellness.

“The message is clear: a Bank that cares for its people builds a foundation of trust with staff, with customers and with the community,” he added.

 

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MTN Ghana Employees Step Out In Service To Communities Through 2026 Y’ello Care Campaign https://businessweekghana.com/mtn-ghana-employees-step-out-in-service-to-communities-through-2026-yello-care-campaign/ Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:03:31 +0000 https://businessweekghana.com/?p=71651 As MTN Ghana marks its 30th anniversary and commences its annual employee volunteer programme, 21 Days of Y’ello Care, employees across the country are stepping out in service to communities. From trading their desks for paintbrushes and repair tools to engaging directly with residents through outreach activities, MTN volunteers are helping to improve access to healthcare and restore dignity to patients in underserved communities.

The nationwide campaign, running from June 1 to June 21, 2026, is being implemented under the theme “Expanding Equitable Health for Every Community.” This year’s initiative carries special significance as it forms part of MTN Ghana’s 30th anniversary celebration, underscoring the company’s enduring commitment to creating shared value and giving back to the communities that have supported its journey over the past three decades.

MTN Ghana, Y’ello Care
Angela Mensah-Poku, Chief Enterprise Officer and some MTN Staff working on the hospital beds, chairs at the Achimota Hospital

Across all 16 regions of Ghana, MTN employees are undertaking practical, community-based health interventions designed to touch lives in meaningful ways. These include refurbishing broken hospital beds, supporting health facilities, conducting community health screenings, promoting disease prevention, raising awareness on non-communicable diseases, installing handwashing facilities in selected schools, and training health champions to sustain health education long after the campaign ends.

At hospitals including Maamobi Polyclinic, Achimota Hospital, Koforidua Government Hospital, Ho Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital and Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, MTN employees are sanding rusted bed frames, applying primer and repainting worn hospital beds to bring them back to life for patient use.

For many health facilities, a restored bed is more than repaired equipment; it is a renewed opportunity to admit, treat and care for a patient with dignity. The hospital bed refurbishment initiative forms part of MTN Ghana’s contribution to improving healthcare delivery and helping to ease the burden of the country’s persistent “no bed syndrome,” which continues to place pressure on health facilities and affect the quality of patient care.

Beyond the refurbishment of hospital beds, the campaign also includes community health screenings, public health awareness activities and WASH interventions in selected schools. Together, these efforts are encouraging preventive care, improving hygiene practices and strengthening health awareness in the communities MTN serves.

Speaking on the ongoing campaign, Adwoa Wiafe, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, said the initiative reflects MTN’s belief that meaningful progress happens when institutions work hand in hand with communities to address real challenges and improve lives.

At MTN, we believe that everyone deserves access to dignified and quality healthcare, regardless of where they live. Through 21 Days of Y’ello Care, our employees are demonstrating the power of service, compassion and shared responsibility. Refurbishing hospital beds, supporting health screenings, promoting hygiene and educating communities may appear simple, but these actions directly touch lives and support the delivery of care in very meaningful ways,” she said.

MTN Ghana, Y’ello Care
MTN Staff in a group picture with one of the refurbished beds

She added that MTN Ghana remains committed to using its people, platforms and partnerships to support national development and improve the well-being of communities across the country.

Healthcare is a shared responsibility, and as a business rooted in Ghana, we see it as our duty to contribute to solutions that make life brighter for our communities. We are proud of our employees who continue to show up with passion, empathy and purpose, and we are grateful to our partners and health institutions for working with us to make this campaign impactful,” she added.

Dr. Abdul Razak Quao, Medical Superintendent of Maamobi Polyclinic and Mr. Bernard Fiifi Polley, Hospital Administrator of Achimota Hospital, commended MTN Ghana for its timely intervention in restoring malfunctioning hospital beds that had long posed a challenge to their facilities. They noted that the hospitals had been working to secure funds for the repairs and expressed appreciation that MTN Ghana stepped in at a critical time. According to them, the refurbished beds will significantly improve patient care and help create a more dignified and comforting environment for patients and caregivers.

The 2026 edition of 21 Days of Y’ello Care is expected to conclude with hundreds of hospital beds refurbished and additional beds procured to support healthcare delivery in Ghana.

Through the campaign, MTN Ghana continues to demonstrate its commitment to volunteerism, sustainability and inclusive development, while reinforcing its belief that brighter lives are built when communities are supported with care, dignity and opportunity.

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