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Enforce policies to protect water bodies- Amb. Samuel Owusu to Govt

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The United Nations (UN) Eminent Peace Ambassador to Ghana, Dr Samuel Ben Owusu has called on the Government to enforce policies that would help protect water bodies in the country.

He observed that numerous water bodies in Ghana have been polluted by human activities such as galamsey, the disposal of refuse, the construction of structures in waterways, and the obstruction of waterways.

The above, he noticed, has become a threat to Ghana’s water, expressing worry that if care is not taken, Ghana may import water or buy water at a very high price in future.

The UN Peace Ambassador gave the warning after his return from the United Nations Global Water Sustainable Conference held in New York.

The United Nations Global Water Sustainable Conference was a three-day event held from March 22nd to March 24th, 2023 in New York

It was aimed at reaffirming the international agreed water-related goals and targets including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Amb. Dr Samuel Owusu represented the West African Mission of the International Association of World Peace Advocate and Ghana respectively.

Read Also: Amb. Samuel Owusu calls on UN to help Ghana achieve sustainable developed water systems

Right when he returned to Ghana, he spoke with the media at the Kotoka International Airport where he expressed worry over the matter.

He observed that most politicians were behind illegal mining directly or indirectly.

For those who engage in activities that pollute water, bodies he warned them to put a stop to it, stating that they will also be affected in future

Meanwhile, as the General Overseer of The Pottersville Church International, Covenant Christian Leadership College, Dr Samuel Ben Owusu said he was going to use his platform to educate the public on the need to protect water in the country.

He also said he would assist the government with ideas and the knowledge gained on innovations at the conference in order to promote a sustainable developed water system in the country.

Watch video below:

Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Porcia Oforiwaa Ofori

Buduburam: Over 1000 residents evicted following court order

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Over a thousand residents of Sun City, a suburb of Buduburam in the Central Region, have been rendered homeless by a litigant in a land dispute.

The residents complained that they were not given sufficient time to vacate the area.

The residents were evicted from their homes by the litigant identified as SNBB under the supervision of a task force and the police. It was such an emotional spectacle.

The affected individuals’ personal possessions were removed from their rooms and locked with new padlocks provided by the plaintiff.

The litigant claims to have prevailed in court against the area’s property owners .

Some stranded residents shared their frustrations with Atinka News.

The DCE for Gomoa East, Hon Solomon Darko Quarm expressed worry and disappointment over the manner of eviction.

He, however, admonished stranded victims to go back to their houses until the right procedure is followed.

Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Samuel Nyamekye Junior

We can’t cook with GHC0.97 anymore – Sch. Feeding caterers tell Gov’t


Caterers of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) want urgent increment in the feeding grant, insisting that the amount being allocated by the Government to prepare daily nutritious meals for pupils is woefully insignificant.


According to them, the GHC1.00 is not enough to purchase food items on the market to prepare quality meals and serve in the right quantity for the children, most of whom come to school on empty stomach.


They disclosed that an amount of GHC0.03 is even deducted from source as tax component from each of the GHC1.00 paid to them [caterers].
This implies that the caterers do not receive exactly the GHC1.00, but GHC0.97 per child per day.


Some of the caterers in the Bono East Region complained bitterly to some officials of the Ghana School Feeding Programme and the World Food Programme who had come to the region for a weeklong joint monitoring to assess the performance of the caterers and the impact of the school feeding programme.


The distraught caterers even though appreciated the Government for the introduction of the school feeding programme and the great impact it is making in the lives of millions of Ghanaian children in the deprived schools, they disclosed how it is sometimes inconveniencing most of them.


“We have tried so much to be quiet over the years hoping that something will be done to increase the feeding grant to at least GHC2.00 or GhC2.50 so that we can meet the cost of food items on the market but to no avail. We are crying and crying but nobody seems to hear us out. Prices of items are being increased almost every day, and so the President must know that we cannot go to the market with the same GHc1.00”.


The caterers asserted that a bag of beans which was sold between GhC250.00 and GhC300.00 last year, now sells between GhC800.00 and GhC950.00. A bowl of gari has also moved from GhC6.00 to GhC25.00, a maxi bag of local rice moved from GhC200.00 to GhC450.00 and prices of cooking oil, meat, fish and vegetables have also gone up astronomically especially in the last 6 months.


They indicated that, even though it is a policy direction for all the caterers to patronize locally produced foodstuffs from the local farmers, almost all the caterers prefer the imported foods because they are far cheaper.


The caterers said that some of them are still managing to cook for the school children because the imported food suppliers are always willing to supply food and other items like tin tomatoes, cooking oil and canned fish to them on credit, unlike the local farmers.


They also raised serious concern about the long delay in the payment of their arrears by the government, which they indicated, put them under unnecessary pressure.

“We are supposed to pre-finance the cooking for just one term and receive payment the following term. But for a long time now, the government always fails to pay us on time; and most at times we do not receive our payment in full. Sometimes instead of 66 cooking days’ arrears, the government can decide to pay us 20, 25 or 30 days and we will have to struggle for a long time before we will receive the remaining payments. And because we have to pay our cooks and suppliers at all cost, we always have to go and borrow from different sources, which put us in an uncomfortable situation”.

In reaction to the concerns raised by the caterers, the GSFP National Coordinator Mrs. Gertrude Quashigah appealed to the caterers to calm down and exercise restraint, noting that everything is being done towards the upwards adjustment of the feeding grant.


She said management of GSFP has been engaging the government for a while now on the issue. According to her, the GSFP has submitted a compelling proposal to the government through the supervisory ministry for an upward adjustment of the feeding grant.


Mrs. Quashigah further revealed that between GHC2.00 and GHC3.00 has been proposed taken into account the prevailing economic trend in the country. She expressed optimism that government would respond positively to the proposal.
She recalled that in 2018 government accepted GSFP’s proposal and increased the feeding grant from GHp.80 to GHC1.00. She therefore assured the caterers and Ghanaians in general that government is genuinely committed to the sustainability of the programme.

Akufo-Addo grants presidential pardon to Abuga Pele over ill-health

The former Member of Parliament for Chiana/Paga, Abuga Pele, has received a presidential pardon.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo granted the presidential pardon to him on grounds of ill-health.

It is reported that last month, Abuga Pele was taken ill at the Nsawam Maximum Security Prison, from where he was transferred to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

He was admitted at the High Dependency Unit (HDU) of the hospital but has since been discharged, the report said.

Abuga Pele, who was an MP for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) was sentenced to a six-year imprisonment by an Accra High Court in 2018.

The court found him guilty of causing financial loss to the state while serving as the National Coordinator of the defunct Ghana Youth Employment and Entrepreneurial Development Agency (GYEEDA).

Source: ghanaweb

Clinical Psychologist Highlights Emotional Impact of Xenophobia on Evacuees

Clinical psychologist Ophelia Boma Azure has highlighted the significant psychological effects experienced by individuals evacuated following xenophobic incidents in South Africa, urging families and communities to provide emotional support during their recovery.

Speaking in an interview on Bullet TV’s Morning Target, she said emotions such as anger, frustration, and humiliation are common reactions among people who have endured traumatic experiences.

“Anger, frustration, and humiliation are key psychological indicators.”

According to Ophelia Boma Azure, evacuees should not feel compelled to repeatedly recount or justify their traumatic experiences, as doing so may worsen emotional distress.

“Evacuees should refrain from over-explaining their trauma.”

She also emphasised the important role families can play in helping returning evacuees recover by creating a supportive and understanding environment.

“Families of evacuees should offer psychological support.”

The psychologist encouraged relatives and loved ones to listen without judgment, respect the privacy of those affected, and encourage professional mental health care where necessary, noting that emotional recovery is an important part of rebuilding lives after traumatic events.

France’s Macron to Join Global Reparations Dialogue in Accra

The Government of Ghana has confirmed that French President, Emmanuel Macron, will participate in the upcoming Next Steps Conference on Reparatory Justice to be hosted in Accra under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama.

The announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in a social media post on Tuesday June 9, 2026, disclosing that President Macron is expected to contribute to discussions on historical injustices suffered by Africans and outline France’s commitment to the global reparatory justice agenda.

According to the minister, the French leader will welcome constructive dialogue on the enduring impact of slavery and colonialism, following the adoption of a Ghana-led United Nations resolution that declared transatlantic enslavement one of the gravest crimes against humanity.

The conference is expected to bring together political leaders, policymakers, academics and advocates from across Africa and the diaspora to advance conversations on reparations, historical accountability and measures to address the long-term consequences of the transatlantic slave trade.

Ghana has in recent years positioned itself at the forefront of international advocacy for reparatory justice, championing efforts aimed at securing recognition, redress and healing for communities affected by centuries of enslavement and colonial exploitation.

The participation of President Macron is expected to add significant weight to the discussions, given France’s historical ties to Africa and ongoing debates over the role of former colonial powers in addressing historical injustices.

Source: Mavis Fantevi

Godwin Ayaba Mahama Rejects Claims Over Voter Status, Reaffirms Commitment to Greater Accra

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Godwin Ayaba Mahama has dismissed reports questioning his voter registration status in the Greater Accra Region, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

In a statement issued on June 8, 2026, Mahama responded to allegations suggesting that he did not vote in the Greater Accra Region during the 2024 General Elections and was therefore not qualified to contest for the position of Greater Accra Regional Secretary should he decide to enter the race.

He firmly rejected the claims, stating that he remains a registered voter in the Domeabra-Obom Constituency, specifically at the Obom Primary Branch, where he has consistently exercised his civic and party responsibilities.

According to Mahama, he has always been registered in the constituency and has neither transferred nor plans to transfer his vote from the Greater Accra Region.

He noted that throughout the years, he has dedicated himself to serving the party through various structures, including the Youth Wing, Organizational Wing, Communication Wing, and campaign teams. He emphasized that his commitment to the party has remained steadfast regardless of whether it was in government or opposition.

Mahama therefore called on delegates, supporters, and the general public to disregard what he described as a coordinated campaign of misinformation aimed at damaging his reputation and creating unnecessary divisions within the party.

Reflecting on his previous regional contest, he said he accepted the outcome in good faith despite not emerging victorious and continued to contribute to the growth and success of the party.

“The encouragement and confidence shown to me by many delegates remain my motivation, and no amount of misinformation will change that,” he stated.

He further urged party members to remain calm, united, and focused on the collective development of the Greater Accra Region. While stopping short of declaring any political ambition, Mahama indicated that his future intentions would be communicated at the appropriate time.

He concluded by reaffirming his dedication to promoting unity, cooperation, and progress within the region and expressed gratitude to supporters for their continued trust and encouragement.

Vincent Kwofie

Some people call our emergency lines just to beg for airtime – Fire Service

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has warned that prank calls to its emergency lines are undermining efforts to save lives and property across the country.

Speaking on Atinka TV’s Ghana Nie – Lifestyle, hosted by Ama Gyenfa Ofosu-Darkwa, the Head of Public Relations, Doll Desmond Ackah, said some individuals misuse the Service’s emergency numbers by requesting airtime or even proposing marriage to call attendants. He said such actions waste valuable time and resources, adding that prank callers could face up to six months in jail.

Mr. Ackah stressed that emergency lines are meant strictly for emergencies and urged the public to use them responsibly. He noted that a single prank call can delay firefighters from responding to a real-life emergency where lives may be at risk.

Some people call our emergency lines just to beg for airtime - Fire Service

The Fire Service also used the opportunity to address public misconceptions about its operations. Mr. Ackah dismissed claims that firefighters arrive at fire scenes without water, insisting that fire engines are always dispatched ready for duty. He explained that opening water tanks to members of the public at fire scenes is often unnecessary and can disrupt firefighting efforts.

He further revealed that firefighting accounts for only a small portion of the Service’s responsibilities, with fire prevention being its core mandate.

The Service is also preparing to rebrand as the Fire and Rescue Service to reflect its broader role in rescue and emergency response operations.

Responding to criticism over firefighters playing games such as ‘dame’ and ‘oware’ during downtime, Mr. Ackah said the activities help officers relax, stay mentally alert and remain prepared for emergencies.

He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to professionalism, preparedness and the protection of lives and property.

Ghana|Atinkaonline.com

Avenor Building Collapse Death Toll Rises to Three as Safety Concerns Mount

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The death toll from the collapse of a four-storey building at Avenor in Accra’s North Kaneshie area has risen to three after one of the two survivors rescued from the rubble succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident.

The Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, confirmed the latest casualty figure, revealing that one of the deceased was the owner of a Mothercare shop operating within the building.

The structure collapsed in the early hours of Sunday June 7, 2026, trapping four people. Rescue teams initially recovered two individuals alive and transported them to hospital for treatment, while two others were pronounced dead at the scene. The subsequent death of one of the injured victims has increased the confirmed death toll to three.

The building, believed to have been constructed between 2020 and 2021, housed both commercial and residential occupants. Among the businesses operating in the facility was a Mothercare retail outlet.

Investigations into the cause of the collapse are ongoing, but early assessments by engineers have raised serious concerns about the building’s structural integrity and compliance with regulations.

Officials from the Ghana Institution of Engineering who inspected the site indicated that the structure may have been erected without the required building permit from the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

Engineers also observed what appeared to be poor-quality concrete, suggesting that the materials used may not have met the minimum standards necessary for a building of that size.

Structural Engineer Emmanuel Aidoo stressed the importance of professional oversight in construction projects, warning that large structures cannot be safely developed without proper engineering input.

“These structures have to be engineered. You can’t just use your mind to construct such buildings. It’ll come back and hunt you,” he cautioned.

Authorities are expected to conduct further technical investigations, including concrete strength tests and detailed structural analyses, before determining the definitive cause of the collapse.

The Avenor tragedy marks the second building collapse recorded in Accra within a week. On June 3, another building collapsed at Adenta New Site, resulting in one death and leaving four others injured.

The back-to-back incidents have renewed public concern over building safety standards in the capital and intensified calls for stricter enforcement of building permit regulations, routine structural inspections, and greater accountability within the construction sector.

As investigations continue, city authorities face mounting pressure to address regulatory lapses and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.

Source: Mavis Fantevi

Sammy Rasta Calls for Greater Recognition and Business Growth for Ghanaian Creatives

Ghanaian movie director Sammy Rasta has expressed concern over the level of recognition and support given to creative professionals in the country, arguing that many talented individuals do not receive the appreciation they deserve.

Speaking in an interview on Atinka TV’s Entertainment Lounge with Roman Fada, he stated:

“Creatives in Ghana do not receive the recognition they truly deserve.”

Sammy Rasta also highlighted the gap between fame and financial or business development within the entertainment industry, noting that popularity does not always translate into sustainable career growth.

“Many artists have become famous, but their business side has not grown at the same pace.”

He stressed the importance of equipping creatives with entrepreneurial skills and business knowledge to help them build lasting careers beyond public recognition.

The filmmaker further reflected on the challenges of dealing with criticism, suggesting that those who offer the harshest judgments are often the least willing or able to provide meaningful support.

“The people least able to help you are often the ones who criticize you the most.”

His remarks underscore the need for stronger support systems, professional development, and greater appreciation for Ghana’s creative industry, while encouraging artists to focus on building sustainable businesses alongside their artistic talents.

Christiana Awuni Reflects on Self-Care and the Importance of Asking for Help

Veteran Ghanaian actress Christiana Awuni has shared personal reflections on the lessons she has learned throughout her life and career, saying she would place greater importance on her own well-being if given another opportunity.

Speaking in an interview on Atinka TV’s Entertainment Lounge with Roman Fada, she admitted that prioritizing the needs of others ahead of her own was one of her biggest regrets.

“One mistake I made was not putting myself first before taking care of others. If given another chance, I would prioritize myself.”

The actress also encouraged people not to suffer in silence when facing challenges, stressing that seeking assistance should never be hindered by fear of criticism or public opinion.

“When you need help, speak up. Don’t let the fear of public criticism stop you.”

Her remarks underscore the importance of self-care, openness, and seeking support during difficult times, while reminding the public that looking after one’s own well-being is essential to being able to help others effectively.

342 Ghanaian Evacuees Return Home from South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks

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A third batch of 342 Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks has arrived safely in Ghana, with government officials assuring them of comprehensive support to aid their reintegration into society.

The evacuees arrived at the airport on Sunday, June 7, 2026, and were received by a delegation led by Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Administration, Hon. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, James Gyakye Quayson, alongside senior officials from various state institutions.

Addressing the returnees, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to helping them rebuild their lives in Ghana. She announced a series of social intervention measures aimed at supporting their resettlement, including employment and skills development opportunities through the National Apprenticeship Programme.

According to her, interested evacuees will be registered by the National Youth Authority under the apprenticeship programme to equip them with employable skills and improve their prospects for economic independence.

She further disclosed that the returnees would be enrolled onto the National Health Insurance Scheme and assisted in obtaining Ghana Cards to facilitate their access to essential public services.

“We have put in place comprehensive assistance packages to support your transition and help you rebuild your lives,” she assured the evacuees, urging them to remain hopeful despite the challenges they had endured.

For his part, James Gyakye Quayson encouraged the returnees to stay optimistic and focus on healing as they begin a new chapter in Ghana. He expressed hope that South Africa would continue to strengthen its relations with the broader African community and stressed the importance of forgiveness in overcoming the trauma caused by the attacks.

The Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister urged the evacuees to channel the determination, resilience and entrepreneurial spirit they demonstrated abroad into building successful lives back home. He noted that the returnees had been registered in a database to facilitate access to government assistance programmes and other opportunities.

Quayson added that several state institutions and private sector organisations were prepared to support the evacuees’ resettlement and economic empowerment. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians everywhere, describing the Ghanaian diaspora as the country’s “17th Region” because of its significant contribution to national development.

The evacuees, in turn, expressed gratitude to the government for facilitating their safe return from South Africa. They pledged to contribute positively to Ghana’s development as they begin rebuilding their lives in the country.

The latest arrival brings the number of Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa higher as government efforts continue to assist citizens affected by the wave of xenophobic attacks in the southern African nation.

Source: Mavis Fantevi

WHO Launches $518 Million Plan to Combat Escalating Ebola Outbreak in Central Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled a $518 million six-month response plan aimed at containing the rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring Uganda.

Announcing the initiative on Friday June 5, 2026, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for urgent financial support and strong political commitment to halt the outbreak, which has become the fourth-largest Ebola epidemic on record.

The joint strategy, developed by the WHO and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), seeks to strengthen outbreak control efforts in affected countries while helping neighbouring nations prepare for potential cases through enhanced surveillance, border screening, and emergency response measures.

“The outbreak is moving fast, and we are still playing catch-up,” Tedros said. “Containing Ebola requires political commitment, sustained financing, and trust in engaging communities.”

Health authorities say the outbreak remained undetected for several weeks, allowing the virus to spread before response measures could be fully implemented.

According to the Africa CDC, the DRC has recorded 381 confirmed Ebola cases and 62 deaths, while Uganda has reported 19 confirmed cases and two fatalities.

The outbreak involves the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or treatment.

“This outbreak is very serious. If you compare it with previous Bundibugyo outbreaks, this is the most severe we have seen,” Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya said.

Kaseya revealed that donors have pledged $315.8 million toward the response effort, significantly below the required funding target. He noted that earlier estimates of $498 million in pledged support were revised after some donors adjusted their commitments.

The Africa CDC officially announced the DRC’s 17th Ebola outbreak on May 15, prompting the WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern shortly afterwards.

Efforts to contain the outbreak have been complicated by testing difficulties. Standard Ebola diagnostic tests initially failed to detect the Bundibugyo strain, resulting in delays in identifying cases and obtaining laboratory results.

“It’s taking several days to a week or more, and that’s frustrating,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse, which is supporting response efforts in Congo’s Ituri Province.

Beyond logistical challenges, health workers have faced resistance from some communities. Reports of attacks on burial teams and treatment centres have further hindered containment efforts.

Highlighting the security concerns, the WHO announced that it had received three armoured vehicles from the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo to support frontline operations.

Health officials warn that without increased funding, stronger community engagement, and improved security, the outbreak could continue to spread across the region.

Source: Mavis Fantevi

KATH Strike: Health Ministry Insists CEO Suspension Was Necessary, Urges Staff Back to Work

The Ministry of Health has described the ongoing strike action by doctors and nurses at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) as unfortunate, insisting that the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, was necessary to uphold accountability and administrative discipline within Ghana’s health sector.

In a press statement issued on Sunday June 7, 2026, the Ministry said the decision to suspend Dr. Baidoo followed what it described as his failure to comply with established administrative procedures regarding the closure of a public health facility.

According to the Ministry, the suspension was prompted by the public announcement of a cessation of admissions at KATH’s Accident and Emergency Centre, a move it said contradicted a directive by President John Dramani Mahama that all public health facilities must continue to provide emergency healthcare services and not turn patients away under any circumstances.

The Ministry stressed that the action taken against Dr. Baidoo was unrelated to any internal arrangements between KATH and the Ashanti Regional Health Directorate. It further clarified that he had only been suspended from his role as Chief Executive Officer and not from his position as a medical officer at the hospital.

“The suspension arose from the public announcement of cessation of admission into the Accident and Emergency unit,” the statement noted, adding that the decision was carefully considered in the interest of patient safety, institutional accountability and adherence to established procedures.

The Ministry maintained that major decisions affecting emergency healthcare delivery, especially at a leading tertiary referral facility such as KATH, must be coordinated with the hospital’s board, the Ministry and other relevant authorities before implementation.

Officials also emphasized that the suspension should not be interpreted as a punishment for efforts to protect patients. Rather, they said, it is an administrative measure aimed at facilitating an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the closure of the emergency unit and determining appropriate remedial actions.

The statement acknowledged longstanding operational challenges facing the Accident and Emergency Centre at KATH and recognized management’s responsibility to ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare workers.

Addressing concerns raised by the striking doctors and nurses, the Ministry urged stakeholders to pursue dialogue and established dispute-resolution mechanisms instead of industrial action.

“The Ministry acknowledges the concerns of staff and emphasizes that dialogue and established dispute resolution channels remain the best path to addressing grievances,” it said.

The Ministry also highlighted several interventions being undertaken to strengthen healthcare delivery nationwide. These include the retooling of major hospitals, the introduction of a National Bed Management System, efforts to operationalize the National Emergency Centre at Burma Camp, completion of selected Agenda 111 hospital projects, and the establishment of cardiac catheterization laboratories at KATH, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and Tamale Teaching Hospital.

Plans are also said to be far advanced for the establishment of a National Accident and Emergency Centre in Accra.

On the Sewua Hospital project, the Ministry indicated that work is progressing steadily and that the facility is expected to be completed before the end of 2026.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Health Service has been directed to implement immediate measures to ensure continued access to emergency healthcare services while engagements with the striking doctors and nurses continue.

The Ministry reiterated that Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has not adopted an adversarial stance towards health professionals and remains committed to working with all stakeholders to improve healthcare delivery.

It ultimately appealed to the striking staff to reconsider their decision and return to work in the interest of patients and the wider public.

Source: Mavis Fantevi