By Samuel SAM
The Northern Regional Director-Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Angelo Dogbe, has solicited support for the Paediatric Unit of Tamale Central Hospital to enhance delivery of quality healthcare.
According to Mr. Dogbe, the unit forms part of the hospital’s clinical service and provides medical care for children – but lacks essential medical equipment and resources to effectively discharge its duties.
He made the appeal on Friday when he led GTA staff to the hospital during National Chocolate Day celebrations to donate chocolates and beverages for patients on admission.
“Our visit today reflects our commitment to showing love and care to our communities, especially our little ones who deserve every bit of joy and comfort,” Mr. Dogbe stated.
He explained that the donation aimed to promote local consumption of chocolate and other cocoa-related products in Ghana.
“As we celebrate National Chocolate Day, we are reminded that chocolate symbolises warmth, love and joy. We are happy to share some quality time with the young heroes in this paediatric unit and provide them with beverages to ensure their welfare,” he said.
Mr. Dogbe further emphasised that Chocolate Day is not merely about enjoying one of Ghana’s finest treasures but also about spreading happiness and supporting one another.
“At GTA, we recognise that tourism is about people, culture and well-being,” he noted.
Highlighting the health benefits of Ghana’s rich cocoa, Mr. Dogbe explained that it boosts heart health, improves brain function and enhances mood, making it particularly essential during challenging times.
“We commend the dedicated doctors and nurses for their selfless service and the parents for their unwavering strength. Our donation today is a small gesture to bring smiles and hope to these brave children,” he added.
Mr. Dogbe also stressed the need for health practitioners and parents to collaborate in providing love and support for children undergoing medical treatment.
He reiterated GTA’s commitment to promoting domestic tourism and cultural heritage to attract more investors, harnessing local resources to create job opportunities.
“This initiative will help reduce poverty and curb youth migration to urban areas in search of menial jobs,” he said.
Head-Paediatric Unit, Tamale Central Hospital, Dr. Lukman Amadu, expressed gratitude to GTA for its continuous support, noting that it has inspired both patients and their families during difficult times.
“Despite the dedication of our staff in ensuring the welfare of patients, resource constraints continue to hamper service delivery. We therefore appeal to government and the public to support us in providing quality healthcare in the metropolis,” Dr. Amadu urged.
