Diaspora News of Friday, 9 November 2007

Source: Embassy of Ghana

Ghana's NHIS unique in Africa -Ambassador Bawuah-Edusei

“There is a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel in Health Management in Ghana” declares. Ambassador Bawuah-Edusei, Ghana’s Envoy to the United States making Ghana’s Health Insurance Scheme unique in Africa.

This was made know by the Ambassador in his contribution during “Healthy Living” a program on the Voice of America (VOA), this November 1st 2007.

Ghana, in line with the Abuja declaration on Malaria is working assiduously to eradicate Malaria. This he stressed has given “a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel”, as the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland has come up with a positive cure, giving hope to Africa.

The Healthy Living programme which is viewed by 15 million people a week was hosted by Linord Moudou.

On the issue of HIV/AIDS Ambassador Dr. Bawuah-Edusei said Ghana is working hard on preventive measures through education using the health services as well as Information Services Department vans for outreach programs.

He lauded the comprehensive work and the collaboration of orthodox and traditional healers in the quest to halt the spread of the scourge. He emphasized the success of the National Health Insurance Policy in Ghana, and how it is helping in cost of health delivery.

Dr. Richard Kamwi of Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services in his contribution said awareness programs through their Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has gone a long way to help in the management of the scourge in Namibia.

Health is expensive in Namibia; Dr. Richard Kamwi observed however, Namibia is using multi sectional approach to have the situation under control, as Government cannot do it alone”.