The Ministry of Health has announced an enhanced collaboration with the Noor Dubai Foundation to support Ghana’s goal of eliminating onchocerciasis, also known as river blindness, by 2030.
In a Facebook post, the Ministry said the partnership comes at a crucial period when funding challenges are threatening global efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases.
During a meeting with the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Manal Taryam, outlined the organisation’s ongoing and future interventions in Ghana.
According to the Ministry, the Foundation, which operates under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has been active in Ghana since 2009. Its work has primarily focused on providing cataract surgeries in Tamale, with the aim of benefiting up to 5,000 people annually.
The Foundation is now broadening its support beyond eye-care programmes to contribute to Ghana’s efforts to eradicate onchocerciasis. The initiative is reported to have the personal support of the Ruler of Dubai.
The Health Minister directed technical teams from both sides to expedite all processes associated with the partnership, emphasising the importance of meeting timelines to achieve the country’s disease elimination targets.
Mr. Akandoh noted that stronger coordination among stakeholders and the elimination of operational bottlenecks would be essential in expanding nationwide coverage and sustaining progress in the fight against neglected tropical diseases.
He also highlighted Ghana’s achievements in controlling neglected tropical diseases and expressed optimism that, with continued commitment and support from development partners, the country can successfully eliminate river blindness by 2030.
Source: citinews
