The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Global Media Foundation, Raphael Godlove Ahenu, has observed that the crucial role of non-profit organisations in the development agenda of Ghana cannot be over-emphasised.

According to him, the numerous humanitarian works of non-profit organisations have contributed immensely to the socio-economic progress of the country, especially in the health sector.

‘‘They have done that through the provision of safe drinking water, construction of school blocks, health facilities, supporting communities with income-generating activities, shaping of government policies, advocating better social interventions, particularly for the vulnerable and marginalized as well as holding governments accountable,’’ Mr. Ahenu added.

Mr. Ahenu who was speaking at the launch of Evelyn Arthur Health Foundation in Accra said humanitarian work has helped communities to identify their opportunities and challenges, to believe in themselves, and look for sustainable answers for real change.

He further explained that ‘‘humanitarian work is very vital in our part of the world because it provides life-saving assistance to people affected by diseases, conflicts, disasters and poverty by reducing the impact of crises on communities, helping recovery and improving preparedness for future emergencies’’.

He commended Evelyn Arthur for her vision to establish the Evelyn Arthur Health Foundation which seeks to provide humanitarian services to the people of Ghana in the area of health, education and youth empowerment with emphasis on young girls and women.

According to the Human Rights Activist, the health sector in Ghana today is facing a lot of challenges which are hindering access to quality health care delivery.

These he noted include, inadequate budgetary allocation by the government, inadequate access to health facilities, poor working conditions, inadequate health personnel and accommodation as well as health equipment among others.

Mr. Ahenu called on the government to ensure all uncompleted health facilities across the country are completed to make quality health care readily accessible by all citizens.

‘‘I also urge the government to equip all health facilities, with emphasis on district hospitals to enhance the provision of quality health care at the local level,’’ he added.

A Public Health Physician of Okanta Memorial Clinic at Ashaiman, Eric Kwatia underscored the importance of preventive health care.

He explained that preventive healthcare can detect certain behaviours, habits, infections and medical problems before they reach the advanced stages and help.

According to him, certain lifestyle choices and habits such as smoking can lead to numerous diseases and conditions which may include infertility, respiratory diseases, cancer or even death.

Mr. Kwatia advised Ghanaians to go for regular check-ups even when they think they are not sick.

He entreated health care providers to avoid treating just symptoms or diseases but also encourage healthy lifestyle choices to help reduce the need for diagnostic services.  

For her part, the Chief Executive Officer of Evelyn Arthur Health Foundation, Evelyn Arthur, said the health development-oriented NGO will work to prevent diseases, promote healthy living and socio-economic development.

‘‘Our work will also focus on the health status of vulnerable and disadvantaged women, children, youth and men in community settings through the adoption of Behavioural Change Communication (BCC) strategy,’’ Ms Arthur stressed.

She called for both technical and financial support from the public, private foundations and corporate institutions to carry out their activities.