By Savannah Pokuaah Duah
In a heartfelt demonstration of leadership and social impact, Mr. Leonard Edem Cosmos, President of the MoFCOM Scholars Alumni Association of Ghana (MoSAAG), has led the organization in launching a nationwide free health screening initiative, beginning at Tema Station in Accra.
Speaking with Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) Digital platforms, Mr. Cosmos emphasized MoSAAG’s core mission: “We are not just professionals who studied abroad , we are a community committed to giving back. As beneficiaries of the MOFCOM Scholarship from the Government of China, it is our duty to serve the people of Ghana, especially those without access to essential healthcare.”
He explained that the outreach is part of a broader vision: “This program isn’t limited to Accra. We are moving to Takoradi, Kumasi, Tamale, and more. The goal is to reach as many communities as possible before the year ends. It’s not just about health screening , we are building capacity, donating, educating, and making lasting change.”
The screening event was made possible through the efforts of dedicated healthcare professionals working alongside MoSAAG. Services included blood pressure checks, BMI analysis, blood sugar testing, malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis screening, as well as comprehensive eye exams.
Bridget Emefa, a senior staff member and eye care specialist, explained the significance of the eye screenings: “We’re looking out for signs of glaucoma and other eye conditions. If anything suspicious is found, we refer clients to our clinics for further testing and treatment. For minor issues like allergies or dry eyes, we provide medication on-site,” she said. Bridget also stressed the importance of confidentiality and follow-up care, especially for underage participants: “Everything is handled professionally. We follow up with patients who need care, but their information remains private.”
In another station, Latifa Mohammed, a senior health officer, led the team conducting general health screenings. She emphasized the need for early testing and treatment: “We test for a wide range of conditions, including HIV. If someone tests reactive, we don’t jump to conclusions, we refer them for two additional confirmatory tests at a government facility. Treatment is available, and it’s free,” she said. Latifa also addressed the stigma surrounding HIV: “The earlier you know, the better your prognosis. We manage the virus, suppress it to undetectable levels. People can live long, healthy lives with proper care.”
For many Ghanaians, the health screening came as a lifeline. One woman, visibly emotional, shared: “I haven’t been able to go to the hospital in years because I just can’t afford it. Today, I got tested for sugar, pressure, malaria, even my eyes. I’m very grateful to MoSAAG.” Two male participants, both drivers, praised the initiative for its inclusiveness and timing: “Healthcare is expensive. What MoSAAG has done is a huge relief,” one said. “And the fact that they are thinking about drivers, who are always on the road and stressed it means a lot. This is real community support.”
President Leonard Edem Cosmos and his team have promised to continue the outreach in several regions before the end of the year, reinforcing MoSAAG’s mission to make healthcare and development truly accessible to all.
