- NLA donates GH₵100,000 to combat meningitis outbreak
- Upper West Region records 14 deaths, over 70 cases
- Donation to fund antibiotics, contact tracing, and education
The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has made a generous donation of GH₵100,000 to assist in the fight against the outbreak of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) in the Upper West Region.
The cheque was presented by the Director-General of the NLA, Mohammed Abdul Salam, to Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, in a ceremony that highlighted the urgent need for additional support to control the outbreak.
Speaking at the presentation, Mr. Abdul Salam emphasized that the donation is part of the NLA’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility, particularly in times of crisis. He remarked, “This donation of GH₵100,000 should serve as a booster for the health team in the region to get a handle on the situation.”
In response, the Regional Minister expressed his sincere gratitude to the Good Causes Foundation, the charity arm of the NLA, for their timely support. Mr. Puozuing stressed the importance of the donation, stating that the funds would be instrumental in treating the affected individuals and ultimately saving lives.
The Minister also shared concerning details about the current state of the outbreak, revealing that it has so far claimed 14 lives and resulted in over 70 confirmed cases. He noted that the situation has been exacerbated by the fact that many residents in the affected areas do not possess valid National Health Insurance cards.
Mr. Puozuing assured that the donation would be utilized effectively, including the purchase of essential antibiotics for diagnosed patients, the facilitation of contact tracing, and the support of public education and sensitization campaigns throughout the year.
In a further step to tackle the crisis, the Regional Minister announced plans to establish a fund through the Upper West Regional Coordination Council. This fund will allow individuals and organizations who wish to contribute to the ongoing efforts to do so, thus ensuring continued assistance for those affected by the outbreak.
