The Rotary Club of Accra-Ridge, in line with its commitment to humanitarian service, has successfully concluded its annual two-day medical outreach programme in Kotoso-Kwahu. The initiative aimed to provide essential primary healthcare to residents of Kotoso and surrounding communities, continuing a tradition of support that has made a significant impact on the lives of those in need.
Over the course of the two-day event, which took place on the 22nd and 23rd of September, 2023, residents from Kotoso, Anyinasi, Bonjrasi, Nkwantanie and Bumpatah in the Kwahu East District received free medical consultation, treatment and medication; and for the aged, sugar level checks. The outreach programme addressed a range of health concerns endemic to the area, including malaria, diarrhoea, intestinal worms, schistosomiasis, skin diseases, and various eye conditions.
The Rotary Club of Accra-Ridge collaborated with the District Health Directorate and received support of personnel and medical equipment, ensuring that the event ran smoothly. Mr. Mutala Mohammed Abilene, the District Director of Health, expressed his gratitude for the assistance and support once again in providing essential health services to these impoverished communities. Kotoso and the neighbouring communities situated along the Volta Lake primarily rely on fishing, fishmongering, farming and general trading as their main economic activities. Access to healthcare can be a challenge, particularly for those who struggle to afford medical treatment or lack health insurance.
President of the Rotary Club of Accra-Ridge, Rotarian Hervé Patrick Mang, emphasised the importance of this exercise, saying: “It is important that we cater for the needs of those who may not be able to afford healthcare in these tough times. We were really blown away by the numbers, especially on the second day. Also, the cases we saw could break a heart; but thankfully, with support from our sponsors, we had enough drugs and medication to treat as many as we could. We hope to be back and hopefully, more consistently. The gratitude from the community is so humbling, and we would plan to come back again and again”.
James Dornu Tanihu, the Assembly man for the area, added: “Thank you very much. This came at the right time, when the cost of living is going up due to the country’s current economic situation. Prices of goods and services have gone up, and some could barely afford three square meals a day. Also, with some not having health insurance, it becomes difficult to go to the hospital when they fall sick”.
The residents of Kotoso and its surrounding communities expressed their excitement and gratitude for the Rotary Club’s gesture, hoping for more frequent visits in the future. The Rotary Club of Accra-Ridge also remains committed to its mission of providing humanitarian service and advancing goodwill and peace in the region; and they look forward to continuing their efforts to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need
