Editorial
If vaccines were “borrowed” so what?
● Some childhood vaccines were delivered recently
Early this week, the Ministry of Health took delivery of some childhood vaccines which had been in short supply for nearly a month.
The shortage had prompted anxiety among parents and health workers who feared it could result in the outbreak of childhood disease like measles, if the young ones were not inoculated in time.
Luckily, there was an intervention with the arrival of some vaccines which the officials assured that they were enough to last six weeks, therefore, parents should not rush for the vaccines.
Following the supply of the vaccines, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa indicated that the consignments were “borrowed” from Nigeria and Cote D’ivore.
Making the so-called revelation in a Facebook post, he stated, among other things, that the government’s failure to admit that the vaccines were received from these neighbouring countries was a sign of ungratefulness.
I must say I respect Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa but I do not find anything useful in his supposed investigations into the source of the vaccines which were procured recently.
Individuals or nations will face one form of challenge or the other, so what is the fuss about calling on a neighbour to provide assistance in times of challenges if they have the means? After all, what are neighbours for?
I guess Nigeria and Cote D’ivore had sought assistance from Ghana in the past so where lies the criticism if they decide to return a similar favour?
Our children did not have vaccines and if the government thought it prudent to procure them through any diplomatic means possible, should we not rather commend the effort?
I believe the sources of the vaccines should not matter, once they were meant to avert a potential health crisis.
Benjamin Adu-Gyamfi,
Pokuase-Accra.
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
