Security Agencies Donate GH¢1m to MahamaCares Initiative to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases
Eleven national security agencies under the Ministry of the Interior have collectively donated GH¢1 million to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as the MahamaCares initiative.
This noble endeavor, spearheaded by President John Dramani Mahama, aims to tackle the growing menace of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana.
The ceremonial presentation of the cheque was held at the Jubilee House, with notable attendees including Minister for the Interior Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, Minister of Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, and Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno. Representatives from various donor organizations, such as the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Prisons Service, Narcotics Control Commission, National Disaster Management Organization, and National Identification Authority, were also present.
President Mahama lauded the security agencies for their remarkable gesture, emphasizing that it not only underscores their commitment to national security but also demonstrates their dedication to safeguarding the health and well-being of Ghanaians.
He highlighted the devastating impact of NCDs, which account for approximately 40% of deaths in Ghana, citing kidney failure, cardiovascular diseases, various cancers, and diabetes as examples.
Mahama stressed that the exorbitant cost of diagnosis and treatment often places an immense financial burden on affected families, with even the most affluent individuals susceptible to financial ruin within a year of battling an NCD.
“Even the wealthiest individuals can face financial ruin within a year of battling a non-communicable disease,” he stated, underscoring the need for collective efforts to address this pressing issue.
President Mahama announced that the Cabinet has approved a bill for the Mahama Cares Fund, paving the way for its submission to Parliament. Once passed into law, the fund will be managed by independent trustees, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The initiative will be financed through a combination of sources, including the National Health Insurance Levy, budgetary allocations, corporate donations, and grants from development partners.
Mahama revealed that substantial contributions have already been made to the fund, including his pledge of six months’ salary. He also announced plans for a one-month salary donation initiative among public officials, coordinated by the Office of the Chief of Staff. Beyond treatment, the fund will prioritize public education on preventing NCDs, encouraging Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyles and undergo regular medical check-ups.
Sharing his own family’s health history, President Mahama urged citizens to take proactive steps in managing their well-being.
“My father died of prostate cancer, and my mother from complications of diabetes and hypertension. This is why I must monitor my health closely,” he said, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one’s health.
President Mahama addressed operational challenges facing security agencies, announcing a GH¢1 billion allocation for retooling. He expressed concern over the Ghana National Fire Service’s outdated equipment, appealing to the public to be patient with the service as they strive to deliver their best under difficult circumstances.
The Mahama Cares Fund is set to significantly improve healthcare access for Ghanaians affected by life-threatening NCDs.
