In 2019, a significant event emerged in China, an event that would evolve into a global catastrophe that would impact countless lives worldwide. It was something we never thought would reach the shores of Ghana, considering it originated far away in China in the latter part of 2019. However, it soon began spreading to other countries in 2020, causing fear and panic. Reports of hospitals filling up with sick people became common in early 2020. What made matters worse was the absence of a cure or any scientifically proven medication. Then, in March of that year, the unfortunate event unfolded: the COVID-19 pandemic had found its way into Ghana.
Healthcare workers were called to duty to confront this alarming situation, which was causing anxiety among the public. They worked tirelessly, attending to patients day and night, following treatment protocols, and providing guidance to the public on necessary precautions. Unfortunately, even when they adhered to these protocols, some healthcare workers fell victim to Covid-19. While the daily admission of patients increased, the number of deaths remained relatively low compared to countries in Europe, America, Asia, and the Middle East. The world was racing against time to develop medications before the end of the year.
Hope emerged with the discovery of effective medications. Frontline workers had to reach every corner of the country to administer treatment to the population. Gradually, daily admissions decreased, as did the number of deaths. According to statistics from Worldometer, as of August 2023, Ghana had recorded fewer than 1,500 deaths. Considering that many countries reported more than 10,000 deaths during the same period, this achievement is indeed impressive and merits recognition. Undoubtedly, credit must be given to the frontline healthcare workers.
The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo, duly acknowledged the remarkable efforts of the healthcare professionals who courageously confronted the challenges posed by the pandemic. In recognition of their unwavering dedication, the President instituted an award scheme to honor the men and women of the health sector who played a pivotal role in managing the novel COVID-19 pandemic.
On the 27th of September, 2023, at the Conference Hall of the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, the award ceremony took place. Thirty-three (33) district and municipal directors of the Ghana Health Services, along with some of their dedicated staff, were rightfully honored for their exemplary professionalism in handling the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis.
In a statement made by the Regional Health Director, Doctor Winfred Ofosu, he highlighted the outstanding professionalism exhibited by health workers in the region during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. He underscored that this dedication had led to the presentation of awards to the frontline health and allied workers in the Eastern Region by the President. Dr. Ofosu expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Nana Addo Dankwa for his thoughtful recognition of the essential duties carried out by health workers.
Honorable Seth Kwame Acheampong, the Eastern Regional Minister, commended the unwavering commitment of the frontline Allied Health Workers in ensuring the region, and by extension, the entire country, remained free from the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also emphasized the government’s dedication to improving the healthcare system through initiatives such as the Agenda 111 project, which aims to construct hospitals and provide essential equipment. These efforts are aimed at enhancing the overall living standards of the citizenry.
In a moment of pride and honor, Honorable Seth Kwame Acheampong had the privilege of presenting the awards, signed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, to the deserving one thousand and ninety-nine (1,099) frontline Health and Allied Workers in the Eastern Region.
This ceremony not only recognizes the exceptional contributions of healthcare professionals but also serves as a testament to the collective strength, resilience, and unity of the nation in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that together, we can overcome even the most formidable challenges and emerge stronger as a nation. The dedication and sacrifices of these healthcare heroes have not only saved lives but have also inspired a brighter future for our great country, Ghana.