Ghana has made remarkable progress in reducing preterm-related deaths, achieving a significant decline from 31 per cent in 2017 to 17 per cent between 2022 and now.

According to the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey, this improvement is attributed to enhanced training for healthcare workers and upgraded health infrastructure.

To build on this success, the African Foundation for Premature and Natal Care, in collaboration with the Accra College of Medicine, has launched the "Purple for Prematurity" campaign.

This initiative seeks to raise awareness and promote better long-term health and quality of life for preterm infants and sick newborns.

The campaign's theme, "Increase Investment in Healthcare to Improve Access to Quality Care for Babies Born Too Soon: A Strategic Approach to Achieving SDG 3 in Ghana," underscored the need for greater investment in healthcare to meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Paediatrician, Dr Nana Okai Brako highlighted a key challenge, stating, "The National Health Insurance Scheme's inability to cover all aspects of premature care is a pressing concern that needs to be addressed."

Obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Naa Armah stressed the importance of parental education.

"It is crucial for caregivers to learn more about improved methods of caring for premature babies," she said.

Selina Bentoom, a mother of a now 9-year-old preterm child, shared her personal experience, saying, "I strongly urge expectant mothers to visit the hospital regularly and communicate their observations during pregnancy to facilitate early assistance. Every moment counts for premature babies."