Donatus Akamugri Atanga urges joint action on public health emergencies

Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga has called for intensified multi-sectoral collaboration to bolster the region's readiness against public health emergencies. Speaking at a regional committee review meeting, the Minister emphasized that the burden of managing disease outbreaks should not rest solely on the shoulders of the Ghana Health Service (GHS). He highlighted the necessity of a unified front involving health professionals, security agencies, local government authorities, and community leaders to proactively address potential threats such as yellow fever and Ebola.

During the review, the Minister underscored the importance of strengthening disease surveillance and early warning systems across the region. He noted that effective communication strategies are essential to preventing the spread of misinformation, which often complicates health crises and hampers official response efforts. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the Regional Coordinating Council aims to create a more resilient framework for emergency preparedness, ensuring that every sector understands its specific role when a health threat arises.

The call for collaboration comes as the region intensifies its review of response protocols for highly infectious diseases. Atanga urged participants to contribute practical, actionable solutions rather than theoretical plans, stressing that the strategic location of the Upper East Region near international borders necessitates a high level of vigilance. He pointed out that security agencies and community leaders are particularly vital in monitoring cross-border movements and reporting suspicious health patterns to the appropriate medical authorities in a timely manner.

In his concluding remarks, the Minister tasked the committee with developing a comprehensive roadmap that integrates the resources and expertise of all involved sectors. He expressed confidence that a well-coordinated approach would not only improve response times during an outbreak but also safeguard the lives and livelihoods of residents throughout the region. The meeting concluded with a commitment from the various stakeholders to enhance information sharing and resource mobilization to ensure the Upper East Region is fully prepared for any future health eventualities.