By Celestine Avi
First Lady Mrs. Lordina Mahama has emphasised the critical importance of early health screening and disease prevention, particularly for vulnerable groups. She made the call during a free health outreach programme jointly organised by her office and the Ghana AIDS Commission, offering medical services to hundreds of community members.
The free health screening event brought together women and youth from across the community, among them hairdressers, tailors, head porters (kayayee), and market women who benefited from a range of essential medical services.
Addressing the participants, Mrs. Mahama explained the purpose of the outreach initiative.
“We are here for a very important reason. For the health of our people, especially young people, women, and vulnerable groups in our communities,” she said.
“We aim to raise awareness, offer free check-ups, provide medical advice and counselling, and help more people take care of their health.”
She noted that many individuals unknowingly live with health conditions, and that such interventions could be life-saving.
“Sometimes, people are living with these conditions and do not even know it. That is why today’s health screening is very important,” she explained.
“It provides an opportunity to get tested free of charge, know about their health, and take the necessary steps to maintain their health.”
Reiterating the power of preventive healthcare, she declared: “Early testing saves lives. Knowing your health status early enables you to start treatment early and prevent serious complications. Testing early can also help us to protect our loved ones.”
Mrs. Lordina Mahama cited HIV as a key example: “For example, when people living with HIV get to know their statuses early, they can receive the right care and support, which will make them live long and healthy lives. But this can only happen if you get tested.”
Participants were offered a comprehensive package of health services including HIV and syphilis testing, breast cancer screening, blood pressure checks, BMI and nutrition counselling and screenings for other conditions. In addition, attendees received training on HIV/AIDS prevention and early antenatal care, especially aimed at preventing mother-to-child transmission.
Turning her attention to the youth, the First Lady offered a heartfelt appeal for more proactive health behaviour:
“I want to address the young people here directly. You are the future of this country. Your energy, your dreams and your well-being matter,” she said.
“However, many young people today are falling ill, sometimes due to a lack of access to the right information, services, or support they need. That must change. And it starts with talking openly to people who can help you, and by having a medical check at least once a year.”
She encouraged all attendees to fully utilise the free services made available:
“Today, you can check your HIV status, your blood pressure and sugar levels, and even be screened for breast cancer, right here at this event, all for free… I therefore encourage you all to take advantage of these services. Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. We are here for you.”
The First Lady also highlighted wider health initiatives under the NDC’s proposed programmes, including the newly launched Ghana Medical Trust Fund—dubbed MahamaCares.
“When this fund is fully operational, it will bring relief to many people suffering from non-communicable diseases,” she said, noting that the fund will support the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses such as heart disease, kidney failure, and cancers.
Mrs. Mahama also referenced the soon-to-be-introduced Free Primary Healthcare Programme.
“It will enhance awareness of the health status of our citizens and contribute to disease prevention,” she noted.
Mrs. Lordina Mahama called for collective commitment to a healthier nation:
“Together, we can create a Ghana where every person knows their health status. Where every pregnant woman gets the care she needs, and where every child is born healthy and free from infection.”
