Let us prioritise our health, as it is the most valuable asset we have – Samira Bawumia at the launch of RFHD

The Second Lady of the Republic of Ghana, Samira Bawumia, has called on Ghanaians to prioritise their health needs, as it is the most valuable asset one can have.

Speaking as a special guest of honour at the launch of the 2024 Ghana Rotary Family Health Days (RFHD), held on September 17, 2024, at the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church Hall in Osu, Accra, under the theme ‘Healthy Families, Healthy Communities,’ she lauded Rotary Ghana for its continued efforts to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities, calling on individuals and organizations to support the initiative.

Samira Bawumia highlighted the significance of accessible healthcare as a fundamental human right, especially for those in rural areas.

She noted that since its inception in 2014, the RFHD initiative has reached over 180,000 individuals across Ghana, offering critical health services.

Samira Bawumia encouraged all Ghanaians to participate and take full advantage of the free healthcare services.

“Let us prioritize our health, as it is the most valuable asset we have,” she said, urging both public and private sectors to join in supporting this crucial health initiative.

“This initiative is not just addressing immediate health needs but also helping to prevent future health crises,” she added.

The Rotary Family Health Days, scheduled from September 19 to 21, 2024, are expected to serve approximately 30,000 individuals across 30 communities in five regions: Greater Accra, Ashanti, Volta, Eastern, and Western.

The program provides free health screenings, including HIV, tuberculosis, and diabetes testing, blood pressure checks, and childhood immunizations, among other health-related needs.

This year’s event will also feature mental health education, reflecting the growing importance of mental health awareness in healthcare delivery.

The RFHD program, organized by Rotary District 9104, is an initiative of Rotary’s global health outreach, with partnerships with the Ghana Health Service, USAID, and other local health bodies.

In 2018, the initiative served over 62,000 individuals, far exceeding its target.

Rotary’s commitment to public health aligns with its motto, "Service Above Self," which was echoed by the presence of several high-profile figures at the event, including District Governor Florence Maame Hagan and District Governor Elect Nana Yaa Siriboe.

Rotary members from 44 clubs will participate in the three-day field event, assisting medical staff and technicians from the Ghana Health Service.

In addition to the core services, this year’s RFHD will feature the Narcotics Control Commission, which will conduct education sessions on the harmful effects of drug use, further emphasizing Rotary's dedication to promoting overall well-being in communities.

The initiative was first launched in 2014 and is an annual program providing free health services to underserved communities in Ghana.

AM/KA

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