The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reaffirmed its dedication to improving child survival through intensified health promotion, immunization, and nutrition education as part of the 2025 national observance of African Vaccination and Child Health Promotion Week.

A grand durbar held at Jamestown in the Ashiedu Keteke district marked the occasion, where the Acting Director-General of the Service, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, underscored the critical role of community engagement and the promotion of locally available nutritious foods in enhancing child wellbeing. Prof. Akoriyea also called for stronger backing from political and traditional leaders to combat vaccine hesitancy and sustain the gains made in child health across the country.

Dr. Hafiz Adam, Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, who represented the Minister for Health, reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring nationwide vaccine availability. He announced the introduction of the Hepatitis B vaccine for children and urged parents to make regular visits to child welfare clinics a top priority. Dr. Adam emphasized that investments in child health are essential to building a healthier and more prosperous nation.

UNICEF Ghana, a key partner in the initiative, praised the leadership of the GHS and donated 1,000 megaphones and aprons to boost public health education efforts. Dr. Manuel Dewez, Chief of Health and Nutrition at UNICEF, pointed to the high levels of food poverty among Ghanaian children and encouraged families to diversify diets with nutrient-rich foods such as eggs and fruits. He also addressed the widespread myths that hinder proper child feeding practices.

The durbar was chaired by Nii Ayikai III, Paramount Chief of Jamestown, who hailed the event as a crucial step toward securing a brighter future for Ghana’s children. He appealed to families, traditional leaders, and health workers to collaborate in promoting regular attendance at child welfare clinics and improving child health outcomes.

Also in attendance were Hon. Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio constituency, and representatives from key partner organizations including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) Ghana, Rotary International, Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health, Gavi—the Vaccine Alliance, PATH, Hope For Future Generations Ghana, Ghana Red Cross Society, and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).

Credit: Ghana health Service