By: Jennifer Nerkie Kenney
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched a nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign aimed at protecting girls aged 9 to 14 years from HPV the leading cause of cervical cancer.
The initiative, targeting 2.4 million girls across the country, was launched under the leadership of the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh, who described it as a major milestone in Ghana’s healthcare system and a crucial step towards equitable healthcare delivery.
According to the Minister, the HPV vaccine, previously available at a high cost, is now free and accessible nationwide as part of Ghana’s routine immunization schedule. “The vaccine offers strong protection when administered before any exposure to HPV,” he said, urging parents and guardians to ensure eligible girls receive it.
Representing the Director-General of the GHS, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of the Public Health Division, emphasized that the campaign symbolizes a national promise to safeguard the lives and futures of girls in Ghana. “This vaccination effort aims to protect the dreams of girls that could otherwise be threatened by cervical cancer,” he noted.
Prof. Smile Dzisi, Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service and chairperson of the launch event, called the campaign a defining moment in protecting the health and future of young girls. She appealed to parents, guardians, and the media to play active roles in promoting vaccination awareness and participation.
The event, which brought together civil society groups, faith-based organizations, and community leaders, underscored national unity in the fight against cervical cancer.
In a powerful show of confidence, Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Grace Ayensu Dankwa, publicly took the vaccine to demonstrate its safety and encourage acceptance among the public.
The campaign is part of Ghana’s broader goal to eliminate cervical cancer one of the most preventable yet deadly diseases affecting women and to ensure a healthier, stronger generation of Ghanaian girls.
