The health care system cannot be strengthened without consciously involving all key stakeholders and Civil Society Organizations in health service delivery.
In line with this, the 13th Annual Health Forum 2019, has been organized by the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in health in the Upper East Region.
It was under the theme: ‘Taking Advantage of ICT to Drive the Achievements of Universal Health Coverage, (UHC) in Ghana’.
The forum brought together Civil Society, (CS) and Non-Governmental Organizations, (NGOs), Heads of Departments, Chiefs, health professionals and the media among others.
The forum was to discuss health care organizations operations of in Ghana such as administrations, management experiences and to make recommendations to government.
Notable among the topics discussed were: e-learning for health improvements and outcomes, neglected tropical diseases, non-communicable maternal and child health, especially food supplements and nutrition, expanded programme on immunization, one health strategy, sustainable development and financing of the health sector.
Speaking to gbcghanaonline, the National Chairmen of GCNH Dr. Gabriel Benarkuu explained that, the Coalition is a Civil Society health, health related NGOs working in the areas of public health, Agriculture and food security, social accountability.
He added that the forum deliberates on critical health issues and related interventions that support government interventions to improve on health outcomes.
The Chairmen of the governing council GCNH Dr Ebenezer Appiah- Denkyerah lauded the coalition, saying that, the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health need to be supported because they have come of age and plays a crucial role, when it comes to health service delivery, simply because they are on the ground and cut across every facets of life.
He said Europe is ahead Africa and Ghana based three things; technology, leadership and the social pattern of life.
The Upper East Regional Chairman of the GCNH Noble Alaskoma Asakiya indicated that, as a civil society organization, they engaged in awareness creation and advocacy the need to take care into their own hands. But beyond that, they also impress upon government to ensure that programmes and policies formulated are pro-poor.
The Upper East Regional Minister’s speech which was read by Andrew Akumbatum to officially open the forum stated that, ICT plays a crucial role in health service strengthening in achieving Universal Health Coverage and was therefore happy for the chosen theme.
Story by filed by : Emmanuel Akayeti
