The Diaspora African Forum (DAF) in collaboration with Direct Relief, an international humanitarian organisation, has made a significant donation of medical supplies and essential healthcare items to selected hospitals in Ghana. This initiative aims to support patient care and improve access to essential medical supplies for those who cannot afford them. The donated items include medicines, syringes, personal care products, protective goggles, hydration supplies, humidifiers, and emergency medical response kits.
The donation was channelled through the DAF by the Breast Cancer Institute. Dr Erica Bennett, Head of Mission of the DAF, stated that this initiative is part of efforts to support Ghana's healthcare sector. The items are intended to be distributed to needy patients through selected hospitals that have made significant contributions to community healthcare. Dr Bennett expressed her appreciation to Direct Relief for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the contribution of the Breast Cancer Institute.
The beneficiary health facilities include Bechem Government Hospital in the Ahafo region, Tepa Government Hospital in the Ashanti region, Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital in Mampong, Britannia Medical Centre in Tema, and Mamobi General Hospital in Accra. These hospitals were selected for their role in providing healthcare services to their respective communities. The donated items will be distributed to these hospitals to ensure that patients receive the necessary medical care.
Ms Brenda Powell, a retired registered nurse and Board Member of the DAF, provided further details about the donated items. She explained that the medicines included treatments for various health conditions such as gynaecological conditions, skin infections, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the emergency medical response kits contained items that could be used to provide initial care during emergencies in communities and health facilities.
Ms Powell, who is also the Development Queen Mother of Tutu in the Eastern region, received the items on behalf of the Tetteh Quarshie Memorial Hospital. She assured the donors that the supplies would directly benefit patients. The hospital will share the items with other healthcare facilities to ensure that the benefits of the donation are maximised.
Mr Kingsley Owusu, President of Bechem United Football Club, commended the DAF for its continued philanthropic work and support for healthcare and education. He recalled that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the organisation donated medical supplies that benefited 16 hospitals in the Ashanti region. The partnership between the DAF and local organisations has created opportunities for young Ghanaian footballers to participate in international tournaments and pursue academic opportunities abroad.
The donation has been well-received by the beneficiary hospitals. Ms Jenifer Armanor of Britannia Medical Centre stated that the donated items would significantly support healthcare delivery and improve patient care. The DAF and Direct Relief have demonstrated their commitment to supporting Ghana's healthcare sector, and their efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of many patients.
Key points
- The Diaspora African Forum and Direct Relief have donated medical supplies to selected hospitals in Ghana to support patient care.
- The donated items include medicines, syringes, personal care products, and emergency medical response kits.
- The beneficiary hospitals are expected to distribute the items to needy patients, improving access to essential medical supplies.
