As part of activities to mark World Leprosy Day, which is observed on January 28 every year, the Weija Leprosarium has held a fundraising ceremony to solicit funds to build a kitchen, a dining hall and a storage facility for the leprosarium.
The facility, which is estimated at about One million Ghana cedis, is to help the leprosarium provide at least one daily meal for the cured lepers. Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who cut the sod for the construction of the project, reiterated the need to end stigmatisation of lepers. He said the government through the District Assemblies Common Fund, will this year equip all leprosariums across the country. He entreated the public to show love to cured lepers.
Leprosy is a neglected tropical disease which occurs in more than 120 countries, with more than 200 000 new cases reported every year. According to the World Health Organisation, the aim of observing World Leprosy Day is to address the social and psychological aspects of leprosy, alongside the medical efforts to eliminate the disease. It also calls for a world where leprosy is no longer a source of stigma but rather an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and respect for all individuals.
Vice President Bawumia said that over the past five years, the government has assisted in the treatment of leprosy in Ghana. He said that although this has led to a reduction in reported leprosy cases, more needs to be done. He announced some measures to further support all Leprosariums across the country through the District Assemblies Common Fund.
Programs Manager in charge of leprosy, Ghana Health Service in charge of lepers, Dr Benedict Quao called for early detection of the disease. He announced that the Ghana Health Service is in the process of finalising the incorporation of leprosy treatment into the National Health Insurance Scheme.
In a remark, Rev. Father Andrew Campbell expressed gratitude to all patrons, especially the Vice President for his support over the years. He indicated that the construction of the kitchen will go a long way towards making the leprosarium a happy place for cured lepers. He noted that stigmatisation still remains a major challenge, stressing the need for all to embrace cured lepers and lend a hand of support.
‘Beat Leprosy’ is the focus of this year’s World Leprosy Day to beat the stigma associated with the disease as well as create awareness about it. Present at this year’s World Leprosy Day include Chief Justice, Georgina Theodora Wood; Kwabena Agyapong and the Chief Executive of the Coastal Development Authority, Jerry Ahmed Shiab.
