UER: Ultramodern Mother & Child Center Commissioned in Kasingo Community
Catholic Health Service Trust – Navrongo Bolgatanga Diocese has commissioned a newly built Mother and Child Center, Administration block and Chapel at St. Clement Health Center in Kasingo in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. Apexnewsgh reports The atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation as distinguished guests, esteemed benefactors, and dear brothers and sisters in Christ gathered to celebrate this significant milestone. Most Rev. Bishop Alfred Agyenta, in his heartfelt speech, expressed profound gratitude to Mr. Scott Mason of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and Deacon Stephen Mutz of St. John Vianney Chapel, USA, for sponsoring the project. “Your kindness and support have made a tangible difference in the lives of many,” he said, acknowledging the impact of sponsors and their generosity. The bishop highlighted the importance of the new health facility, saying, “This health facility will serve as a beacon of hope and healing for the people of Kasingo and beyond.” He emphasized the church’s commitment to serving the physical and spiritual needs of the community and thanked the Catholic Health Service Trust and all those who worked tirelessly to bring the project to fruition. As the congregation gathered to commission the new facility, Bishop Agyenta prayed, “May it be a source of blessing and comfort to all who enter its doors. May it be a place of healing, hope, and joy for generations to come.” With deep gratitude, the bishop concluded, “May God bless you abundantly for your kindness and generosity.” The ceremony marked the beginning of a new era of hope and healing in Kasingo, and all those present looked forward to the positive impact the facility would have on their community. Mr. Peter Akudugu Ayamba, the Health Director, Catholic Health Trust, NABOCADO during his speech revealed the project was made possible through the efforts of Reverend Father Gabriel Atidoo and Rev. Fr. Paul Atinga. This generous donation was a testament to the values of service, solidarity, and stewardship that the Catholic Church upholds. The new facility would provide much-needed care to children and mothers, and its impact would be felt for generations to come. The benefactors’ kindness would be remembered for years to come, and their contribution would have a lasting impact on the lives of many. The parishioners of Mount Carmel Catholic Church and the St. John Vianney Chapel had written their names boldly in the hearts of the people and in the history of the Catholic Health Service Trust. On behalf of the Bishop, the National Health Directorate, and the facility’s partners, a big thank you was extended to the benefactors and their parishioners. The health workers were charged to match the generosity with professionalism, compassionate care, and a deep sense of responsibility. As the facility was formally taken over, a commitment was made to maintaining and utilizing it efficiently, ensuring that it served its intended purpose for generations to come. A prayer was offered, asking the good Lord to bless the benefactors, parishioners, community, and reverend fathers for their kind gesture. May their labor be rewarded, and may the facility be a sanctuary of hope, healing, and human dignity. The Chief of Bongo, Beo Naba Awambila Asabiga, expressed his heartfelt satisfaction during the commissioning of the Mother and Child Center, Administration Block. He began by paying a special tribute to their dear friends from the United States of America, acknowledging their generosity and steadfast support. The Chief highlighted the significant impact the facility had on the people of Kasingo and the surrounding community, citing several benefits. Firstly, the facility had reduced the time and trouble spent accessing healthcare services, allowing people to allocate more time and resources to other important livelihood endeavors. Secondly, the risk of traveling long distances or bad roads for healthcare services had been minimized. Thirdly, maternal and child health would be greatly enhanced, leading to reduced maternal and child mortality rates and increased joy and hope among families. Additionally, the facility had created employment opportunities for community members. In conclusion, the Chief commended the initiative, describing it as a poverty reduction intervention that would have a lasting impact on the community. He expressed hope that their friends would continue to support the facility, enabling it to grow and become a beacon of hope for the people. With gratitude, the Chief looked forward to a bright future, where the facility would continue to serve as a symbol of kindness and generosity. However, the Bongo Member of Parliament Mr. Charles Bawa Dua extended special thanks to the benefactors, the U.S. department partners, and the leader of parishioners of Mount Carmel Catholic Church and the St. John Vianney Chapel, for their generosity in making the facility a reality. He noted that the facility was a testament to the progress made in Kasingo, which had evolved significantly over the years. From having only one developmental project 45 years ago, Kasingo now boasts several roads, electricity, schools, and an ultra-modern health facility. The MP urged the community to take pride in their background and strive to contribute to its growth and development. He thanked the Ghana Police for providing security and assured that the government would work hard to support the facility’s growth. The MP emphasized the importance of maintenance, urging the workers and community to treat the facility with care and respect. The facility, he noted, would not only serve Kasingo but also surrounding communities, and he encouraged everyone to welcome visitors from other areas. With gratitude, the MP thanked the benefactors and stakeholders for their role in making the facility a reality. Meanwhile, as the commissioning ceremony of the Mother and Child Center, Administration Block, came to a close, Mr. Scott Mason and Stephen Mutz, took a moment to express their heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kasingo and Bongo. During their 9-day stay in the district, they were warmly received by the community, and they felt a deep connection with the people. Mr. Mason and Mr. Mutz, representing the leader of the parishioners of Mount Carmel
Ken Ofori-Atta Undergoes Successful Prostate Cancer Surgery
Former Finance Minister of Ghana, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta, has taken a significant step towards recovery after undergoing a robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy to treat prostate cancer at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. The complex surgery, which lasted over four hours, was conducted on Friday, June 13. According to a statement issued by his wife, Prof. Mrs. Angela Ofori-Atta, the doctors are pleased with the outcome of the procedure and have now placed him on a postoperative care regimen. Despite the challenges, Mr. Ofori-Atta remains strong and focused on regaining his health. Prof. Ofori-Atta revealed that the timing of the surgery was tough, coinciding with a red alert issued by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) shortly before the procedure. However, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s resilience and determination have been evident throughout this challenging period. Prof. Ofori-Atta expressed deep gratitude to the many individuals and clergy who have offered their prayers and support during this time. The family has asked for continued prayers and privacy as Mr. Ofori-Atta continues his recovery. As a former Finance Minister, Mr. Ofori-Atta’s health challenge and the ongoing scrutiny from the OSP have drawn national attention. His leadership in several key economic initiatives during his tenure from 2017 to 2024 earned him widespread recognition. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
IGP Praises Police Hospital Staff
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has paid a working visit to the Police Hospital in Accra to express appreciation to the hospital’s leadership and staff for their exceptional service during the recent strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA). The visit comes after the hospital experienced a massive increase in patient attendance as public health facilities were affected by the nationwide industrial action. The Medical Director of the Police Hospital, Commissioner of Police Dr. Otu Nyarko, disclosed that the facility recorded over a 300% increase in patient numbers over the past week. To cope with the situation, the hospital implemented contingency measures, including recalling doctors who were on annual and study leave, to ensure no patient was turned away. The IGP praised the hospital’s management and frontline staff for their commitment and professionalism during the health sector crisis. “Your sense of duty and service in such critical moments is deeply commendable,” Mr. Yohuno said. He encouraged both police and civilian staff at the facility to continue delivering quality healthcare and to treat every patient with urgency and compassion. The IGP also highlighted the timely inauguration of the new Police Hospital in Kumasi, describing it as a significant boost to the police medical system. He reaffirmed the Police Administration’s commitment to resourcing its health facilities across the country to enhance service delivery and ensure readiness for future emergencies. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Calls for Emergency Meeting with Striking Nurses and Midwives
The Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, Mr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, has called for an emergency meeting with the leadership of the striking nurses and midwives. Apexnewsgh reports The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) declared an indefinite strike on June 2, citing the government’s failure to implement the 2024 Collective Agreement. The Association argues that the prolonged delay in enforcing the agreement is detrimental to the welfare of its members and undermines the quality of healthcare delivery nationwide. Mr. Nawaane’s call for an emergency meeting aims to find a resolution to the impasse and address the concerns of the striking nurses and midwives. The meeting would provide a platform for both parties to engage in dialogue and work towards a mutually beneficial solution. With the strike affecting healthcare delivery, finding a resolution is crucial to ensuring the well-being of patients and the healthcare system as a whole. The indefinite strike by the GRNMA has significant implications for the healthcare sector, with patients facing disruptions in medical care. The emergency meeting called by Mr. Nawaane is a step towards resolving the crisis and restoring normalcy to healthcare services. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Ghana Records 531 Suspected MPOX Cases, 79 Confirmed
The Ministry of Health has announced that Ghana has recorded 531 suspected cases of MPOX, with 79 confirmed cases following laboratory testing. Apexnesgh reports In a brief update to the media, the Ministry disclosed that 77 of the confirmed patients are currently undergoing home isolation, receiving care while minimizing the risk of further community transmission. Health authorities have intensified surveillance and response efforts across affected regions, working closely with the Ghana Health Service and local health facilities to monitor, trace contacts, and manage active cases. The Ministry is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease and ensure public safety. The Ministry has urged the public to remain calm and adhere to hygiene and safety protocols, including regular handwashing, avoiding contact with infected individuals, and seeking medical attention when symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes appear. Officials say the situation is under control, and the government is committed to preventing a wider outbreak. The Ministry reassures the public that further updates will be provided as investigations and monitoring continue. With the health and well-being of citizens being a top priority, the government is working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and prevent any potential spread. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Government Directs Roadmap for Nurses’ and Midwives’ Demands
The government has taken a significant step towards resolving the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives by directing the Ministry of Finance and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) to develop a roadmap for implementing the demands of the striking healthcare professionals. Over 128,000 nurses and midwives across Ghana have been on strike since May 28, 2025, due to the government’s delay in implementing their new conditions of service. In a media address at the Jubilee House, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed the government’s commitment to implementing the conditions of service for nurses and midwives. “Government remains committed to the needed engagements that will lead to the approval and implementation of the new Conditions of Service for nurses and midwives,” he stated. The Minister noted that the Ministry of Finance and FWSC will lead the development of a roadmap to ensure a smooth implementation of the process. This move aims to address the concerns of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) and find a mutually beneficial solution. However, the Minister highlighted that the demands by nurses and midwives have not been captured in the 2025 budget and will put the government’s budget in disarray if implemented in its current state. He emphasized that the government is cautious of the serious economic consequences of any unbudgeted expenditure and wants to avoid the economic slippages that caused hardships in the recent past. Akandoh assured that the government is ready to further engage with nurses to implement the Conditions of Service in a manner that does not dislocate the national budget. He has personally engaged with the leadership of the nursing and midwifery Associations to resolve the impasse, demonstrating the government’s commitment to finding a solution. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
GRNMA stands firm amid ongoing strike- says they’re open for talks, not renegotiation
The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has expressed its willingness to engage with the Ministry of Health but insists that it will not return to the negotiation table over matters already agreed upon. Apexnewsgh reports The association’s stance comes amid a nationwide strike that began on June 4, 2025, over the government’s failure to implement the provisions of their 2024 Collective Agreement. GRNMA’s Greater Accra Regional Chairman, Jefferson Asare, made it clear that while the association is open to discussions, it will not accept any attempts to reopen negotiations on matters already finalized. “We are ready to meet. If we receive a letter now, we will move anywhere they want us to go. But for renegotiation, we are not ready,” Mr. Asare stated in an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show. Mr. Asare stressed that among the various groups in the health sector, it is only nurses and midwives whose agreed-upon conditions of service remain unfulfilled. “In the health ecosystem, it is not only nurses who have problems with the conditions of service. But we are the only group whose conditions of service have not been implemented,” he added. The ongoing strike has disrupted healthcare services across the country, prompting calls from stakeholders and the public for a swift resolution. GRNMA maintains that the government must honour its commitments rather than attempt to renegotiate already-settled terms. The association’s firm stance underscores the need for the government to address the concerns of nurses and midwives to restore normalcy to the healthcare system. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Minister of Health Appeals to Nurses and Midwives to Return to Work
The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has made a passionate appeal to members of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) to return to their posts, citing the critical needs of patients across the country. Apexnewsgh reports The Minister’s plea came during a monitoring visit to major health facilities in Accra, including Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, LEKMA Hospital, and Ridge Hospital. During his visit, Minister Akandoh assessed the impact of the ongoing strike on healthcare delivery and noted that the industrial action has clearly affected operations and the quality of care for patients. While some nurses and midwives remain at work, the Minister emphasized the need for all healthcare professionals to return to their duties. “I recognise the genuine concerns of our dedicated nurses and midwives,” Minister Akandoh said. “However, I appeal to them to reflect on the health and lives of vulnerable Ghanaians who depend on their care every day.” He assured health professionals that the government is actively working to address their grievances and resolve the impasse. The Minister emphasized his commitment to continued dialogue, expressing hope for a swift resolution. “I remain open to constructive engagement with all stakeholders, and I am confident we can find a common path forward that protects both the interests of our healthcare workers and the well-being of the public,” he added. The Ministry has reiterated its readiness to work collaboratively with the GRNMA to ensure that pressing challenges are resolved in a manner that strengthens Ghana’s healthcare system. The Minister’s appeal highlights the need for a collaborative solution that prioritizes the health and well-being of patients while addressing the concerns of healthcare professionals. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
Pharmacist Shot and Killed in Bolgatanga
A tragic incident occurred in the Upper East Region’s capital, Bolgatanga, where a pharmacist, Mohammed Zibrim Zia-Ulhak, was shot and killed in his private vehicle. Apexnewsgh reports The incident happened around 10 to 11 p.m. at the Tindonsobligo community on Thursday night. According to sources, Mr. Zia-Ulhak was returning home after closing from work when the incident occurred. Residents in the area suddenly heard gunshots coming from the direction of his vehicle. After a few minutes, they rushed outside to find Mr. Zia-Ulhak dead in his white pickup truck, with bullet holes visible on the windshield and other parts of the vehicle. The perpetrators had already fled the scene. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with many mourning the loss of the pharmacist. The motive behind the shooting is yet to be determined, and an investigation is likely underway to apprehend the culprits. The loss of Mr. Zia-Ulhak has left a void in the community, and his family, friends, and colleagues are grappling with the tragic news. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mpox Outbreak in Western Region of Ghana: 19 Confirmed Cases Reported
The Western Region of Ghana is facing a concerning public health situation, with 19 confirmed cases of Mpox (Monkeypox) reported. According to Ms. Vida Nyarko, a public health nurse at the Effia Kwesimintim Municipal Health Directorate, the Effia Kwesimintim municipality currently accounts for 4 of these cases, with 17 additional samples awaiting investigation. Background of the Mpox Outbreak Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that has been reported in various parts of the world, including Africa, where it is considered endemic in some regions. The first cases of Mpox in Ghana were reported in 2022, with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) confirming several cases across different regions. Symptoms of Mpox Mpox symptoms can vary in severity and typically include: Rash or lesions Fever Swollen lymph nodes Headache and muscle aches Fatigue While there is no specific treatment for Mpox, supportive care can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and proper wound care, can help prevent the spread of the virus. The Effia Kwesimintim Municipal Health Directorate, along with other health authorities, is actively investigating the outbreak and working to identify the source of the virus. Contact tracing and surveillance are also being conducted to monitor the situation and prevent further transmission. Ms. Nyarko emphasized the importance of practising good hygiene, avoiding excessive handshakes, and maintaining a healthy diet to boost the immune system. The public is advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones. The health authorities are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for the public to stay informed and follow the guidance of health authorities. Source: Apexnewsghcom/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen