Editorial
Take immediate action to end malnutrition
a development crisis and a public concern that requires immediate attention.
This is because hunger affects birth outcomes, maternal health, and child survival given that deficits in particular micronutrients pose a serious health burden and play a major role in childhood morbidity and death,
It is unfortunate that regional inequities and inadequate government funding for nutrition programmes still persist, despite continuous efforts to address the issue of malnutrition.
According to recent statistics from the 2022 Ghana Demographic Health Survey (GDHS) 18 percent of children under five are stunted, six percent are wasted, and 12 percent are underweight. Nearly half of these children also suffer from anaemia.
The statistics show that we must act immediately to prevent jeopardising the productivity and well-being of future generations.
These figures were revealed at a stakeholder engagement on malnutrition in Ghana which was organised by the Women, Media and Change (WOMEC), a non-governmental organisation (NGO) committed to empowering women and advancing gender equality in partnership with the Coalition of Public Health Actors (CAPHA).
The event served as the formal inauguration of the “Nourish Ghana; Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition Project,” one of WOMEC’s main advocacy efforts. The project’s goal is to increase public awareness of Ghana’s urgent malnutrition problem and its effects on development and health.
It established a forum for discussion aimed at bolstering national policy action on nutrition by promoting greater leadership, funding, and accountability, and particularly incorporating the media in the conversation.
In her statement, Mrs. Charity Binka, the executive director of WOMEC, stated that malnutrition costs Ghana roughly 6.4 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually and that, despite pledges, they are insufficient because the country continues to struggle with malnutrition.
With an emphasis on improving outcomes for women and children, WOMEC hopes the Nourish Ghana Project will address the ongoing problem of malnutrition and promote greater leadership, dedication, creativity, and investment in nutrition programmes.
It is also anticipated that the project will collaborate with lawmakers, policymakers, civil society organisations (CSOs), the media, and local stakeholders to promote long-lasting policy changes and boost funding for nutrition programmes through strategic advocacy, public awareness, and multi-sectoral engagement.
Dear Editor,
I WRITE to draw the attention of NADMO and other related agencies to the recent prediction by the Ghana Meteorological Agency to expect a lot of rains this year, especially in the Southern sector of the country.
GMet issued the forecast to provide an early warning to protect lives and property.
Interestingly, the Southern sector happens to be one of the many trouble spots in the country when the rains start.
It predicted the season to start in March and continue until July or August with above-normal rainfall along the eastern coast and nearby inland areas, including Accra, Tema, Cape Coast, Saltpond, Asamankese, Akim Oda, Koforidua, and Kade.
Knowing the problems faced as a country, concerns have been raised in certain quarters about the aftermath flooding problems in low-lying areas.
These concerns are well placed because flooding has become an annual ritual associated with the season.
My appeal goes to NADMO as well as the district and metropolitan assemblies. They are responsible for activities before and after the season.
As we prepare, they must spearhead the campaign to desilt the drainages in order for water to flow freely.
The citizenry must also show some sense of responsibility by desisting from throwing rubbish into gutters to block the free flow of water.
Noah Musa,
Adabraka
Dear Editor,
I WOULD like to express my views on why some people abuse leaders on social media platforms.
In recent times, social media has become a powerful tool for communication and expression. Unfortunately, many people misuse this freedom by insulting and abusing leaders instead of engaging in constructive criticism.
One major reason for this behaviour is frustration. When citizens feel ignored, unemployed, or affected by poor policies, they sometimes turn their anger toward leaders online.
Another reason is anonymity. Social media allows users to hide behind fake names and profiles, which gives them the confidence to say things they would not dare say in public. This lack of accountability encourages abusive language and disrespectful comments.
Ignorance and misinformation also play a role. Some people abuse leaders based on false news or rumours without verifying facts. This leads to unnecessary attacks that can damage reputations and create tension in society.
While leaders should be held accountable, abuse and insults do not solve problems. Too many people are finding social media platforms as homes to hide and churn out untruths that goes a long way to damage the image and credibility of the victims.
Constructive criticism, dialogue, and lawful channels are better ways to express dissatisfaction. Citizens must remember that respect is essential for national unity and development.
I hope this letter will encourage people to use social media responsibly and promote respectful communication.
Eugene Ampiaw,
Takoradi
