News
Loneliness increases risk of stroke, others —kills over 100 every hour
A World Health Organisation (WHO) report has linked loneliness to over 100 deaths every hour, totalling more than 871,000 global fatalities each year.
The WHO Commission on Social Connection revealed in its report that one in six people globally experience loneliness, with significant consequences for physical and mental health, well-being, and economic productivity.
WHO defines social connection as the ways people interact with others; loneliness as the painful feeling resulting from a gap between desired and actual connections; and social isolation as a lack of sufficient social ties.
Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation, noted that despite the limitless opportunities for connection in today’s world, increasing numbers of people feel isolated and alone.
He warned that beyond individual impacts, unaddressed loneliness and social isolation could cost societies billions through health care, education, and employment losses.
The report highlights that loneliness affects people of all ages, particularly youth and those in low- and middle-income countries.
Among individuals aged 13–29, between 17–21 per cent reported feeling lonely, with the highest rates among teenagers.
In low-income countries, about 24 per cent reported loneliness—double the 11 per cent in high-income countries.
She stressed that policies must embed social connection across sectors such as digital access, health, education, and employment.
Ms Mpemba noted that the root causes of loneliness and isolation were varied, including poor health, low income, limited education, living alone, inadequate infrastructure, weak public policy, and digital influences.
The report also cautions about the mental health risks associated with excessive screen time and negative online experiences, particularly for youth.
It further outlines the health and economic consequences: social connection reduces inflammation, supports mental health, lowers the risk of major diseases, and can prevent premature death.
It also enhances community safety and prosperity. In contrast, loneliness and isolation increase the risk of stroke, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, depression, and early mortality.
At the societal level, the report indicated that loneliness weakened social cohesion and incurred high costs in lost productivity and health care.
It said communities with strong social ties tended to be more resilient and responsive to crises.
Moreover, the WHO affirmed that solutions existed at national, community, and individual levels—from awareness campaigns and policy reforms to building inclusive social infrastructure such as parks, libraries, and community centres, alongside mental health support.
It called on individuals to act—check in on a friend, be fully engaged in conversations without digital distractions, connect with neighbours, participate in community groups, or offer their time through volunteering. —GNA
MTN Ghana has hosted more than 200 students from various educational institutions in Accra for an engaging, hands-on technology immersion at MTN House, bringing classroom theory to life and fueling interest in STEM and digital innovation.
Students from Ashesi University, Ghana International School, Cradle Star Academy, and Kinderland School explored MTN Ghana’s rich history, core values, customer-focused innovations, and digital transformation agenda.
They were introduced to the company’s sustainability and social impact initiatives, spanning education, youth empowerment and community development. A key highlight of the visits was a tour of MTN Ghana’s Network Operations Centre (NOC) and data centres.
The students gained first-hand exposure to the advanced technology, systems, and expertise powering seamless connectivity for millions daily – offering a rare look into how MTN ensures network performance, security, and resilience.
Speaking on the initiative, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, Adwoa Wiafe, noted, “Hosting students at MTN House reflects our commitment to shaping Ghana’s digital future. As we deliver our Ambition 2030 strategy, we are deepening investments in youth development through programmes like the Bright Scholarship, the MTN Digital Skills Academy, and collaborations on the One Million Coders Programme and the Girls in ICT initiative led by the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation.”
Paschal Paaga, Manager for IT Projects Implementation, emphasised the importance of experiential learning.
‘’By opening our doors, we are helping to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We want young people to see the real-world impact of technology and be inspired to pursue careers in STEM.”
For many participants, the experience was transformative. Maame Sapomaa, a Level 300 Information Systems student from Ashesi University, shared, “The visit was incredibly inspiring. Everything we have learned in the classroom came to life, and we were exposed to new concepts beyond our studies. It has motivated me even more to pursue a career in technology.”
As MTN Ghana advances its Ambition 2030 vision, the company remains committed to driving digital inclusion, platform-led innovation, and building strategic partnerships that support Ghana’s long-term socio-economic development.
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has expressed sorrow over the death of two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates in a road accident in the Upper West Region.
The deceased are Taufi Ibrahim and Abdul Khalid, both students at Chiana Roman Catholic Junior High School.
“Management of the Ghana Education Service has received with profound sorrow the tragic news of the untimely demise of two Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) candidates, Taufi Ibrahim and Abdul Khalid, students of Chiana Roman Catholic Junior High School in the Upper West Region,” a statement issued by Mr Daniel Fenyi, Head of Public Relations, GES, said.
It said preliminary reports indicated that the students died in a road traffic accident on Sunday, May 3, while travelling to Wa ahead of the commencement of the examination.
“We are deeply saddened that these young lives, full of promise and potential, have been cut short under such distressing circumstances.
“Management and staff of GES, and the entire education community, extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the school, their classmates, and all who have been affected by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.”
The statement said Management of the GES would continue to liaise with the appropriate authorities to ascertain full details of the incident and consider measures to prevent similar occurrences. –GNA
