Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged the need for coordinated national action to reduce the heavy burden sickle cell disease places on families and the country’s healthcare system, stressing that access to care must be a right for all Ghanaians.
Speaking at a public engagement on health and social protection, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said many families affected by sickle cell disease continue to struggle with high treatment costs, limited access to specialised care, and the absence of sustainable support systems.
She described sickle cell disease as a growing national challenge rather than a marginal health issue, noting that Ghana’s increasing population makes the need for decisive action even more pressing.
“We must strengthen our resolve to confront this challenge directly,” she said, adding that sound economic management is essential to create fiscal space for expanded health and social protection programmes.
According to the Vice President, the government remains committed to impact-driven governance that prioritises inclusivity and builds development from the grassroots.
She said decentralisation of healthcare services is critical to closing the gap between urban and rural communities.
“Access to healthcare must not depend on where a person lives,” she stated. “Every Ghanaian deserves the same chance at quality care.”
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also assured families living with sickle cell disease that the government is determined to work closely with stakeholders to strengthen prevention, improve early diagnosis, and provide long-term support for affected households.
She said compassion, sustainability, and collaboration must guide the national response, as the government seeks to remove barriers to care and improve the quality of life for people living with the condition.
The Vice President’s message reinforced the administration’s pledge to ensure that no Ghanaian is left behind and that families affected by sickle cell disease receive the support they need to live healthier and more dignified lives.
Source: myxyzonline.com
