Damongo, Savannah Region – The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has officially inaugurated its Inter-agency Coordinating Committee for Health Promotion (ICC-HP) in the Savannah Region. This new committee aims to significantly enhance health promotion efforts across the region.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Damongo, the regional capital, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, included training for Regional/District Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) Committees and the formal re-inauguration of the Regional ICC-HP. This initiative follows the successful establishment of similar committees in other northern regions of Ghana, demonstrating a commitment to strengthening collaborative health promotion activities.
The Regional ICC-HP brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ghana Health Service, Information Services Department, Environmental Health and Sanitation Department, various media outlets, Non-Governmental Organizations, and a private sector entity. Notable members include Dr. Michael Biredu and Janet Kulah from the Regional Health Directorate, Vincent Agyepong-mensah from the Regional Coordinating Council, Rev. Samuel Mahama Dinkeri from the Local Council of Churches, and Kumatey Gorden representing the media.
Nationally, the ICC-HP is led by Professor Elsie Effah Kaufmann and operates under the Health Promotion Division in Korle-bu. This national structure ensures efficient coordination and execution of health promotion objectives across the country. The ICC-HP was first established in Ghana in 2010 and has received continuous support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Since its inception, the committee has been instrumental in advocating for policies that advance public health and foster a healthier nation.
During the event, Mrs. Mabel Kissiwah Asafo, Acting Director of the Health Promotion Division – GHS, emphasized the crucial role of the ICC-HP in advancing public health initiatives. She urged members to actively contribute to improving the health and well-being of their communities.
Dr. Josephat Ana-almwine Nyuzaghl, Savannah Regional Health Director, underscored the importance of effective communication, particularly during public health emergencies. He highlighted that the training provided during the event would strengthen the region’s ability to respond to emergencies and combat challenges such as vaccine misinformation.
With this collaborative effort among various agencies and stakeholders, the newly inaugurated ICC-HP signifies a united front dedicated to enhancing health promotion initiatives in the Savannah Region and nationwide.
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