Former Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, is set to unveil a book titled “Fellow Ghanaians: Telling Ghana’s COVID-19 Story – A Journey of Fear, Facts, Faith, and Fortune,” chronicling Ghana’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The book launch, to be graced by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in Accra on March 20, 2024, aims to provide insights and strategies for managing future health crises.

With a foreword by President Akufo-Addo, the 370-page publication delves into Ghana’s comprehensive approach to tackling the pandemic. Dr. Okoe-Boye, currently serving as the Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority and nominated Minister of Health pending Parliamentary approval, announced the upcoming launch during a courtesy visit to Lt. General Thomas Oppong-Preprah, the new Chief of the Defence Staff of the Ghana Armed Forces, at Burma Camp.

Dr. Okoe-Boye emphasized the significance of documenting Ghana’s COVID-19 experience for posterity, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the military in providing essential support during the crisis. He also revealed his personal connection to the military, including his contribution to the construction of a two-story administrative block named after his mother, Mary Adjetey, at the 48 Field Engineers School of the Ghana Armed Forces.

Lt. General Oppong-Preprah commended Dr. Okoe-Boye’s efforts during the pandemic and advocated for enhanced military readiness for future outbreaks. He proposed the establishment of a specialized Bio-Medical Unit within the military to ensure prompt responses to future health emergencies, affirming the military’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Health in this endeavor.

As Ghana prepares to reflect on its COVID-19 journey, Dr. Okoe-Boye’s book offers valuable insights and lessons for navigating future public health challenges, underscoring the importance of collective action and preparedness in safeguarding the nation’s health and well-being.