Minister for Public Enterprises, Joseph Cudjoe has emphasized the government's commitment to adequately resource regulatory institutions, such as the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), to fulfill their mandate without facing challenges.
He views the operations of the FDA as crucial in safeguarding people's well-being, similar to God's role in ensuring protection around the clock.
Speaking at the FDA Annual Stakeholders Meeting to assess the Authority’s 2023 financial and operational performance, Joseph Cudjoe highlighted that over eighty percent (80%) of diseases affecting and causing human deaths are food and drug-related, making FDA's role indispensable.
"We cannot afford to neglect eating or drinking water, activities we engage in daily. A food seller, innocently or even with delight, may unknowingly sell you poison through good customer service. They may not realize that certain spices or ingredients could be health-threatening and potentially fatal," he mentioned.
"It would be nearly impossible for each of us to have personal laboratories or testing equipment at home, work, or carry them everywhere to test what we consume," Cudjoe added.
The minister emphasized the importance of FDA's regulatory activities in protecting consumers and preventing diseases and deaths, underscoring the need for more support for the Authority.
He praised the FDA for its dedication despite salary and staffing constraints, acknowledging its efforts to expand operations to benefit all citizens and keep the country safe.
Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, reiterated her outfit’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate effectively to ensure the overall well-being of the population.
The annual stakeholder meeting aimed to update stakeholders on the FDA's regulatory activities and accomplishments in 2023.
MA/AE
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