The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Gender Development Centre (EGDC), has launched the 2024 edition of the Obstetric Fistula Programme.

This initiative aims to tackle the condition affecting many women across Ghana and West Africa, particularly those in rural areas with limited access to healthcare in the country.

The launch, held at the Alisa Hotel on September 6, 2024, was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, and the ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinubonu, Director of Allied Health Sciences at the ministry highlighted the importance of the programme, noting that obstetric fistula is a preventable but devastating condition.

"In Ghana, the burden of this condition is particularly severe in rural and underserved areas, where access to quality maternal healthcare is often limited," he said.

“Women suffering from this condition endure not only physical pain but also social ostracization, often being abandoned by their families and communities.”

The Ghana Health Service developed the Ghana Obstetric Fistula Prevention and Management Strategic Plan (GOFPMSP) 2017-2021 to combat the condition.

This blueprint focuses on three key areas: prevention, treatment, and social reintegration.

However, the 2024 programme will build on past successes while introducing new strategies to scale up efforts, including enhanced community outreach and training for healthcare providers.

One of the critical projects under this initiative is the rehabilitation of the Tamale Fistula Centre. Funded by ECOWAS, the centre is undergoing upgrades to enhance its capacity to provide not only surgical repairs but also psychological and social support services.

"This holistic approach is vital for the full recovery and reintegration of women into their communities," Dr. Awinubonu emphasized.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Gabriel Ganyaglo, representing the Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts.

"Today’s launch marks a new chapter in our journey to eliminate obstetric fistula from Ghana. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to renew their commitment and resources," he said.

ECOWAS presented a cheque of $245,000 in support of women and girls affected by obstetric fistula across West Africa.



AM/EK

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