Ministry of Health representatives, alongside key stakeholders
The Ministry of Health (MoH), alongside key stakeholders, marked Rare Disease Day 2025 on February 28, 2025.
The event aimed to raise awareness and advocate for improved healthcare access for individuals living with rare diseases in Ghana.
The Director of Allied Health at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, speaking on behalf of the Chief Director, Alhaji Hafiz Adam, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable healthcare for all citizens, particularly those affected by rare diseases.
“Today, we stand together to acknowledge the challenges faced by individuals living with rare diseases and to pledge our commitment to addressing these issues,” he stated.
“As a nation, we must work together to ensure that every person, regardless of their medical condition, is granted the same level of dignity and access to healthcare. It is our responsibility to provide the necessary support, resources, and care to those living with rare diseases,” the Minister emphasized.
He commended the efforts of the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative (RDGI), a non-governmental advocacy organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by rare diseases.
Since its establishment in 2019, RDGI has played a vital role in raising awareness and working closely with healthcare providers to improve diagnosis, treatment, and care.
“The Rare Disease Ghana Initiative has been instrumental in bringing attention to the needs of affected individuals and families. Their advocacy is helping to bridge the gap in healthcare accessibility for people with rare diseases,” he acknowledged.
The Ministry of Health assured that steps are being taken to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure that people living with rare diseases receive the necessary medical services.
Efforts include integrating rare disease management into Ghana’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Roadmap, aligning with the theme of ‘Leaving No One Behind.’
“We recognize that there is still much work to be done, but I assure you that the government is committed to addressing the challenges faced by persons living with rare diseases,” the Minister stated.
He urged all stakeholders, including health partners, private sector players, civil society organizations, and non-governmental organizations, to collaborate with the government to enhance healthcare for those affected.
“We must work together to create a world where everyone, regardless of their medical condition, has access to proper diagnosis, treatment, and care,” he said.
Samuel Agyei Wiafe, the Executive Director of Rare Disease Ghana Initiative, added, “I believe that if these strategies are adopted, they will move Ghana towards achieving sustainable development goals, specifically concerning poverty. We also want to move Ghana toward achieving universal health coverage.
“We know these diseases are rare and that the investments required are significant, but the small steps we take will at least create hope. I believe that this meeting is contributing to that, and we want to be able to continue these efforts.”
Professor Ebenezer Vincent Badoe of the University of Ghana Medical School called for broader education on rare diseases to sensitize the community.
Globally, over 300 million people suffer from rare diseases, many of which are genetic and predominantly affect children. Unfortunately, due to limited awareness and resources, diagnosis and treatment remain inadequate in many parts of the world, including Ghana.
AM/KA
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