By Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu, GNA
Bolgatanga, Oct. 22, GNA – Mr Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister, has called for stronger multi-sector collaboration to boost the region’s preparedness for public health emergencies.
The Minister, who serves as Chairman of the Regional Public Health Emergency Management Committee, emphasized the need for health authorities, security agencies, local government institutions and community leaders to enhance the region’s capacity to respond to public health emergencies.
Mr Atanga made the call at a committee meeting to review preparedness for potential threats, including yellow fever, Ebola and meningitis, and to identify gaps in the region’s surveillance and emergency response systems.
The meeting, which brought together various stakeholders, sought to assess the region’s readiness to manage meningitis as the heat season approached, alongside measures to minimize the risk of transmission of other infectious diseases.
He said effective emergency preparedness required collective action and could not be left to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) alone.
“Public health emergency preparedness is not the responsibility of the Ghana Health Service alone. It requires coordinated action involving our security agencies, local government authorities, educational institutions, traditional and religious leaders, transport operators, the media and civil society organisations,” he said.
Mr Atanga said the involvement of the various stakeholders was crucial to strengthen disease surveillance, share information, educate members of the public, report suspected cases early and ensure effective response to outbreaks.
The Minister cited the region’s geographical proximity to the Upper West Region and Nigeria, as reasons for increased vigilance and proactive measures to protect public health.
He said the committee was expected to review the readiness of health facilities, assess surveillance systems and emergency response mechanisms, and agree on practical interventions to address identified weaknesses.
Mr Atanga also underscored the importance of timely and accurate public information to prevent misinformation, fear and complacency during health emergencies.
“Public education should encourage appropriate preventive measures, early reporting of suspected cases and prompt access to health services,” the Minister said.
He urged members of the committee to provide accurate updates on the preparedness of their respective institutions and contribute practical recommendations to strengthen the region’s response capacity.
Mr Atanga said the deliberations must result in clear action plans, designated responsibilities and effective follow-up to ensure that agreed interventions were implemented.
“Protecting public health requires anticipation, coordination and timely actions,” the Minister added.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Godfred Aaneamenga Polkuu
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]