The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS), has called on all Ghanaians, particularly women and caregivers, to prioritize their health and take advantage of available medical services, including vaccination programs.
The appeal was made by Mr. Emmanuel Mettle, NCCE Director for the La Dade-Kotopon Municipality, during the launch of the Annual African Vaccination and Child Health Promotion Week at the Salvation Apostolic Church in La. He emphasized the importance of vaccines in preventing diseases across all age groups and encouraged parents to ensure their children receive essential health services provided by the GHS.
Key Health Interventions for Children
Mr. Mettle highlighted critical child health services, including:
✔ Immunization (protecting against preventable diseases)
✔ Growth monitoring and promotion (tracking child development)
✔ Vitamin A supplementation (boosting immunity and vision)
✔ Nutrition counseling (promoting healthy infant and young child feeding)
✔ Birth registration (ensuring legal identity and access to services)
✔ Family planning services (supporting maternal and child health)
“Vaccines save lives. Every parent must ensure their children receive all recommended immunizations and attend regular health check-ups,” he urged.
The African Vaccination Week (instituted in 2010) and Child Health Promotion Week (since 2004) are observed in April and May to raise awareness about essential health interventions. This year’s theme, “Every Child Deserves a Healthy Future; Invest in Your Child. Attend Weighing Regularly,” underscores the need for consistent health monitoring and parental responsibility in safeguarding children’s well-being.
The NCCE and GHS stressed that health is a shared responsibility, urging community leaders, religious institutions, and families to support public health campaigns. Mr. Mettle also advised against vaccine hesitancy, emphasizing that immunization is a proven, safe, and effective way to prevent outbreaks of deadly diseases.
A Healthy Nation Starts with Healthy Children
The event concluded with a strong call to action:
✔ Parents should attend child welfare clinics regularly
✔ Communities must support vaccination drives
✔ Women should access family planning and maternal health services
✔ All Ghanaians should adopt healthy lifestyles
With collective effort, Ghana can ensure a healthier future for its children and reduce preventable illnesses.