In a remarkable display of community collaboration and commitment to global health, the Rotary Club of Obuasi partnered with the AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) Health Foundation Hospital to mark World Polio Day 2025.
The event, held at the AGA Health Foundation premises in Obuasi, brought together health professionals, Rotarians, students, and nursing mothers to raise awareness about the fight against poliomyelitis (polio) and to reinforce the call for a polio-free world.
World Polio Day, observed annually on October 24, serves as a global reminder of the ongoing efforts to eradicate the debilitating disease that once paralyzed hundreds of thousands of children each year.
Raising Awareness and Renewing Commitment
The Obuasi chapter of the Rotary Club—renowned for its dynamic community involvement—collaborated with the AGA Health Foundation to organize educational activities and community outreach programs. Medical experts led interactive sessions on polio prevention, symptoms, and the vital importance of vaccination. They also dispelled common myths and misconceptions about the disease.
Volunteers distributed educational materials and engaged nursing mothers in discussions on maintaining immunization coverage to ensure the virus does not resurface.
Although Ghana remains polio-free, participants stressed the importance of sustained vigilance and robust vaccination campaigns to prevent reintroduction.
Voices of Leadership and Hope
Speaking at the event, Hon. Dr. Maurice Jonas Woode, President of the Rotary Club of Obuasi, emphasized the importance of keeping the fight against polio alive in public consciousness.
“Polio may be out of sight for many, but it must never be out of mind,” he said. “There was a time the world underestimated the disease, and it affected generations born before 1979. Rotary International has since become a key force in eradicating polio—investing over $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to protect nearly 3 billion children across 122 countries.”
Dr. Woode added that the collaboration between Rotary and AGA Health Foundation exemplifies the power of local action in advancing global health goals.
Mrs. Beatrice Oduro, Acting Head of Reproductive and Child Health Services at AGA Health Foundation, echoed his sentiments.
“We are proud to stand with Rotary in this mission,” she noted. “Health education and community engagement are essential pillars in maintaining Ghana’s polio-free status. Every parent must ensure their children receive all recommended immunizations to safeguard their health and future.”
A Symbol of Commitment
The event concluded with a symbolic presentation of gifts to nursing mothers by members of the Rotary Club. Attendees left inspired, reminded that while global polio cases have been reduced by 99.9%, complete eradication demands sustained commitment and vigilance.
As Rotary International continues its worldwide mission to end polio, local chapters like Obuasi play an essential role in maintaining momentum. Together with partners such as the AGA Health Foundation, they continue to illuminate the path toward a future where no child suffers from polio.
Source: modernghana
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