The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) is set to institute a national award scheme to celebrate the invaluable contributions of medical doctors across the country. The proposed “Doctors’ Day Awards” will coincide annually with the association’s founding day on 4 January.

Speaking at the GMA Volta and Oti Regions’ Dinner and Awards Night on Saturday, 7 June 2025, General Secretary of the GMA, Dr Richard Selormey, revealed that plans are underway to secure sponsorship and partnerships to bring the vision to life.

He noted that while professions such as farming, teaching, and nursing have dedicated national recognition days, doctors have often been overlooked. “We do our best, but often the only time doctors are noticed is when something goes wrong,” he lamented.

Dr Selormey emphasised that the award scheme would not only honour dedicated practitioners but also serve to boost morale, especially at a time when many doctors are considering leaving the country due to difficult working conditions.

“These are the kinds of initiatives that make people feel their efforts are valued. We urge the government and private sector to support this,” he said.

At the regional level, the GMA’s Volta Division has already taken steps in this direction, recognising individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to healthcare in the Volta and Oti regions. These include philanthropists who have built clinics, renovated hospitals, and paid medical bills for patients.

One of the night’s top honours went to the Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH), which received the Organisational Excellence Award for its impactful work in maternal health, capacity building, and infrastructure in the Volta Region.

Dr Selormey also highlighted the need to celebrate contributors to healthcare delivery to inspire more people to take part.

“We have more beauty pageants and entertainment awards than healthcare awards, even though healthcare directly affects our quality of life,” he said.

Volta Regional Chairman of the GMA, Dr Med Kweku Appiagyei, encouraged doctors to uphold professionalism in their work.

“Let us remember that we are here because of our patients. Let’s do everything possible to improve healthcare in the Volta and Oti regions. When our clients are happy, we are happy too,” he said.

He also urged young doctors and dentists to consider working in the Volta and Oti regions.

“Opportunities await them here. It’s a supportive environment with seniors and mentors ready to guide and shape them,” he said.

2025 GMA Volta Awards – List of Winners

Humanitarian Service: Prof Dr (Med) Yao Kwakume
Community Service: Rotary Club, Ho
Public Health and Community Impact: WHO
Excellence in Health Education: Prof John Evans Atta Mills University of Science and Technology
Excellence in Health Partnerships: MTN Foundation
Innovation in Health Delivery: 1D1D, GMA Volta
Awareness and Advocacy: Volta Health Network
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology: Roche, Ghana
Overall Winner: Korea Foundation for International Healthcare (KOFIH)

Special Recognition Awards
• Community Pharmacy: Trafalgar Gate Pharmacy
• Oti Region Award: Star Oil
• Philanthropy:
o Lions Club
o Mr Akonta Felix Akakpo
o Mr Dzissah Futukpor