The Marigold Foundation, a non-governmental organization dedicated to improving the well-being of communities, recently conducted a free medical screening exercise in Dwenho, a suburb of Agona Swedru, benefitting over 800 residents. This outreach program, targeting both young and old, aimed to enhance community health by providing crucial screenings for various conditions and raising awareness about the importance of preventative healthcare. The Foundation’s commitment to accessible healthcare was further underscored by their provision of free medication for all ailments diagnosed during the screening, eliminating the financial barrier that often prevents individuals from seeking necessary treatment. The screenings encompassed a wide range of conditions, including blood pressure, hepatitis B, diabetes, glaucoma, malaria, typhoid, and other prevalent health concerns. This comprehensive approach ensured that residents received a thorough assessment of their health status, empowering them to take proactive steps towards better health management.
Mrs. Justina Marigold Assan, CEO of the Marigold Foundation and former Central Regional Minister, emphasized the vital link between health and economic prosperity. She stressed that good health is a fundamental prerequisite for productive work and a sustainable livelihood, urging individuals to prioritize their well-being. Mrs. Assan expressed concern over the prevailing neglect of health among many Ghanaians, highlighting the prevalence of preventable diseases that often go unaddressed due to a lack of timely medical attention. This proactive screening initiative, therefore, served as a crucial intervention, bringing essential healthcare services directly to the community and encouraging residents to take ownership of their health. The Foundation’s focus on Dwenho and surrounding districts like Agona, Gomoa, and Awutu Senya West underscores their commitment to reaching underserved populations.
The Marigold Foundation’s work in Dwenho is made possible through collaborative partnerships with both international and local organizations. The Rotary Club of Texas, USA, alongside several Ghanaian organizations, provides crucial funding and logistical support, enabling the Foundation to extend its free healthcare services to remote areas. This collaborative approach demonstrates the power of partnerships in addressing critical community needs. The Foundation acknowledges the instrumental role of Daniel Kojo Kratiah, the Assemblyman for the Dwenho Electoral Area, whose advocacy and dedication were pivotal in bringing the screening program to the community. His commitment to the well-being of his constituents highlights the importance of local leadership in driving positive change.
The Marigold Foundation’s efforts extend beyond healthcare, encompassing a holistic approach to community development. The organization is actively involved in supporting education, sanitation initiatives, and the provision of mechanized boreholes for safe drinking water in communities across Agona West and beyond. This multifaceted approach recognizes the interconnectedness of various factors in promoting overall well-being. Mrs. Assan’s call for greater involvement from individuals and institutions, particularly those with resources, reinforces the importance of collective responsibility in uplifting underprivileged and vulnerable populations. By investing in these critical areas, the Foundation aims to create a more sustainable and equitable environment for communities to thrive.
Dr. Jocelyn Maame Esi Darkwa, the Agona West Municipal Director of Health Services, commended the Foundation’s initiative, highlighting its significance in addressing the healthcare needs of the region. She emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups, including blood pressure and blood sugar monitoring, as well as screening for other common illnesses. This proactive approach, she explained, is essential for early detection and prevention of complications, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes. Dr. Darkwa’s hope for the continuation of this initiative reflects the need for sustained efforts to ensure consistent access to healthcare within the community.
Assemblyman Daniel Kratiah expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, particularly given Dwenho’s proximity to a busy market area, which increases the risk of disease transmission. He reinforced the importance of maintaining a clean environment and cautioned residents against improper waste disposal practices, highlighting the direct link between sanitation and public health. His appeal to other NGOs, banks, and corporate institutions to emulate the Marigold Foundation’s model underscores the need for broader community involvement in addressing the healthcare needs of underserved communities. The success of this initiative serves as a compelling example of how collaborative efforts can bring tangible benefits to those who need it most.
