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‘Empower women, build resilient healthcare systems, across Africa’
The First Lady of The Gambia, Mrs Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, and the Chairman of the Executive Board of E. Merck KG and Board of Trustees of the Merck Foundation, Prof. Dr Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, have called for stronger partnerships to, empower women, build resilient healthcare systems and promote responsible health journalism across Africa.
They made the call at the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul.
The event, hosted under the patronage of President Adama Barrow and Mrs Bah-Barrow, brought together First Ladies, health ministers, and stakeholders from more than 50 countries.
Mrs Bah-Barrow urged participants to remain united in strengthening health systems and improving lives, saying health was not merely the absence of illness, but the presence of opportunity.
Mrs Bah-Barrow also emphasised the role of the media in shaping public perception and behaviour, stressing that responsible health reporting saves lives.
“Journalists have the power to inform, educate, and inspire action, but they must be well-equipped to do so ethically and accurately. We have seen how misinformation can cost lives,” she cautioned.
In his remarks, Prof. Dr Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp revealed that since 2012, the Merck Foundation has provided over 2,400 scholarships to healthcare professionals from 52 countries to specialise in 44 critical fields to address Africa’s shortage of medical experts.
“Africa bears 24 per cent of the global disease burden but has only 2.9 per cent healthcare workers per 1,000 people. Through training and education, we are closing that gap,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of Merck Foundation, Dr Rasha Kalej said the foundation was supporting over 1,000 girls under the ‘educating Linda’ programme to finish their high school education and enable them fulfill their dreams.
She said with the support of the First Ladies “we are providing annually 40 scholarships for high performing but underprivileged girls until they finish their education.”
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
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AS Valentine’s Day is marked around the world with flowers, gifts and romantic gestures, a marriage counsellor has encouraged Ghanaians to move beyond the commercial celebration and reflect on the deeper meaning of love rooted in faith.
Speaking to The Spectator, Counsellor Prince Offei, who is also a mental health professional and a Reverend Minister, said Valentine’s Day has strong Christian origins that were often ignored in contemporary celebrations.
He explained that the day was linked to Saint Valentine, a third-century Christian priest who defied Emperor Claudius II’s ban on marriage by secretly officiating weddings for young couples. Saint Valentine was later arrested and executed for his actions.
“Saint Valentine stood for love, commitment and marriage, even at the cost of his life; that legacy is what inspired the celebration of love that we now know as Valentine’s Day,” Counsellor Offei said.
He noted that the celebration remains relevant to Christianity when approached from a spiritual perspective.
“As Christians, Valentine’s Day offers an opportunity to reflect on God’s unconditional love for humanity,” he said, citing 1 John 4:19, which states that love originates from God.
“When love, kindness and generosity are at the centre, the celebration aligns with Christian values.”
Addressing debates over the origins of Valentine’s Day, Counsellor Offei mentioned that the modern observance can be redeemed when believers focus on demonstrating Christ-like love.
“We can use the day to strengthen relationships, share scripture and show love in practical ways,” he said, referencing John 13:34, which urges believers to love one another as Christ loved them.
On how the day should be observed, Counsellor Offei stressed that Valentine’s Day is not limited to romantic relationships.
“For singles, it can be a time to practise self-love and appreciate family and friendships,” he said, adding that for couples who are dating, it is an opportunity to deepen understanding, while married couples can use the day to reconnect and renew their commitment.
He also encouraged acts of service, noting that showing compassion to those in need reflects the true spirit of love.
However, the counsellor expressed concern over the growing association of Valentine’s Day with promiscuity.
“It is worrying when the day is used to justify immoral behaviour,” he said. “Christian teachings emphasise that sexual intimacy is sacred and meant for marriage. When this is ignored and misused, it often leads to emotional and psychological harm,” he added.
Counsellor Offei urged Christians, particularly the youth, to resist societal pressure and remain grounded in faith.
“Young people should remember that true love is rooted in God’s love,” he said. “Social media trends should not define their worth or relationships. Scripture and godly counsel remain the best guides.”
He called on Christians to use Valentine’s Day as a reminder of love that is sacrificial, responsible and reflective of God’s nature.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has congratulated radio journalists and station owners across the country as the world marks World Radio Day 2026, and renewed calls for the passage of the long-pending Broadcasting Bill.
In a statement issued in Accra on February 13, 2026, and signed by its President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the Association joined UNESCO and the international community in celebrating the day under the theme: “AI is a Tool, Not a Voice.”
According to the GJA, the theme highlights the growing use of artificial intelligence in broadcasting but reminds media practitioners that technology cannot replace the human voice.
It said while AI can support radio work, credibility and public trust depend on ethics, professionalism and sound editorial judgment.
The Association described radio as the most accessible and inclusive medium in Ghana. It noted that radio continues to inform, educate and unite people in both urban and rural communities.
It said the medium plays a key role in promoting accountability, encouraging public dialogue and sharing important information on health, education, security, the economy and climate change.
The GJA congratulated radio journalists, presenters, producers, editors, technicians and support staff for their dedication and resilience.
It said their work has helped to sustain one of the most vibrant radio industries in Africa and has strengthened Ghana’s democracy.
It commended private radio station owners, including commercial and community broadcasters, for operating despite financial and regulatory challenges.
The Association said many of them face limited revenue, high operational costs and stiff competition, yet they continue to invest in local content, multilingual programming and job creation.
While celebrating the achievements of the sector, the GJA expressed concern about the lack of a comprehensive Broadcasting Law.
It pointed out that the Broadcasting Bill, which has been pending since 2009, is needed to modernise and properly regulate the industry.
The Association urged the Executive and Parliament to treat the passage of the Bill as a national priority.
It said a well-regulated and independent radio sector is essential for democratic growth and national development.
As the country marks World Radio Day, the GJA encouraged media professionals to uphold high standards of integrity, accuracy and responsibility.
It stressed that even as technology evolves, innovation must not weaken the ethical foundation of journalism.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professionalism and pushing for reforms to strengthen broadcasting in Ghana.
By: Jacob Aggrey
