Editorial
Herbal medicine producers must build capacity
Dear Editor,
IN recent times, herbal medicines, which used to be what most of our older folks relied on to cure their diseases seems to be losing their relevance.
This has been due to the emergence of orthodox medicines.
Although some are of the view that orthodox medicines are more effective than herbal medicines, I believe herbal medicines could still be relied upon.
What has also contributed to the dwindling fortunes of herbal medicines is the poor standards.
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has been doing its best to ensure that herbal medicines produced locally met the standards required as well as their approval by the Authority.
Furthermore, traditional and herbal medicine producers in the country have also complained about the lack of support from the government in promoting their products.
In my opinion, I think it is about time traditional and herbal medicine producers produce on a large scale to meet the growing demands of their markets, especially those that have been approved by the FDA.
What I have realised is that they don’t produce enough because they lack the resources.
Also, I think those that produce similar products can collaborate and produce on a large scale to meet the growing demand.
With that, health facilities can have access to these medicines in large quantities to complement the orthodox medicines that are available.
Once they are able to do this, the government will also take them more seriously and provide them with the needed support to produce on a large scale to boost the sector.
Cletus Amedeka,
Volta region
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
