Ark Development Organization(ADO) , a nonprofit group is gearing up to host the “Regional Health Forum on WASH and Skin-NTDs,” a collaborative effort with the Eastern Regional Health Directorate and support from Fundación Anesvad.
The forum scheduled on December 7,2023 is poised to be a crucial platform for stakeholders to engage in substantive dialogue and discussions surrounding the intersection of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices and the impact of Neglected Tropical Diseases affecting the skin (Skin-NTDs).
This initiative underscores the commitment to addressing pressing health issues within the region as more skin NTDs have been discovered by Ark Development Organization.
Since February 23, Ark Development Organization, in partnership with Fundación Anesvad, has been actively involved in the implementation of the “Partnership for the Eradication of Skin-NTDs” project.
This project spans across four districts in the Eastern Region of Ghana, namely Upper Manya Krobo, West Akim, Suhum, and Fanteakwa-North.
The primary objective of this collaborative effort is to elevate the quality of life for individuals grappling with Skin-NTDs.
The strategy involves reinforcing community-based approaches, including swift operational responses to surveillance, testing, treatment, and care for Skin-NTDs.
Additionally, there is a significant focus on creating awareness about these diseases among the general population.
Two-Year Project to Combat Skin-NTDs in Ghana
Emmanuel Kwarfo Mintah, the Executive Director of Ark Development Organization, had earlier explained that the comprehensive two-year project aimed at addressing four prevalent Skin-Neglected Tropical Diseases (Skin-NTDs) in Ghana.
The project specifically targets Buruli Ulcer, Leprosy, Yaws, and Lymphatic Filariasis. The implementation span four districts: Upper Manya Krobo, Suhum, Fanteakwa North, and West Akim.
Mintah emphasized the significance of tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases, which have posed substantial health challenges in Ghana for years.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy for mitigation, elimination, and eradication.
Ark Development Organization is spearheading this effort in collaboration with 4-H Ghana and Youth Aid Initiative.
Explaining the project’s focus, Mintah outlined key objectives, including community education for prevention, enhanced accessibility to healthcare services, improved community water and sanitation, and enhanced planning, management, and monitoring of health systems. The integrated approach aims to combat skin NTDs effectively.
Mintah emphasized community sensitization to dispel myths and misconceptions about skin NTDs, reducing stigmatization.
The project also provide crucial support to patients, ensuring they have access to appropriate medication and treatment.
Other initiatives include training and capacity building for volunteers and beneficiaries, case search and management, empowering unemployed skin-NTD patients with employable skills, and facilitating dialogues on the provision of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
