Ghana launches new policies on Sickle Cell Disease, vaccine independence

GHANA—Ghana has introduced two new national policies to transform healthcare and vaccine production in the country.

The policies launched in Accra are the “National Strategy for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) 2022-2028” and the “National Vaccine Policy (NVP),” both designed to enhance health outcomes and advance self-reliance in vaccine production.

According to the Ghanaian Times, the National Strategy for Sickle Cell Disease sets a five-year roadmap to tackle SCD, which affects about 25% of the Ghanaian population.

By focusing on improving healthcare services, promoting research, and raising public awareness, the strategy seeks to reduce the social stigma often associated with the disease and decrease the disease burden through comprehensive and coordinated care.

Meanwhile, the National Vaccine Policy (NVP) envisions Ghana becoming self-sufficient in vaccine production by 2030.

This ambitious goal reduces reliance on imported vaccines and is particularly important for supporting Ghana’s Expanded Programme for Immunisation (EPI), which includes vaccines for children under five, especially those with SCD.

Both policies are based on principles of equity, strategic partnerships, patient-centered care, innovation, and sustainability.

Minister of Health Dr. Bernard Oko Boye, speaking on behalf of the sector minister, emphasized the need for the new SCD strategy to address the high disease prevalence.

 Dr. Oko Boye highlighted that approximately 15,000 to 20,000 babies are born with SCD in Ghana each year, representing 2% of all live births.

He further noted that without intervention, children born with the disease face high mortality rates, with 50% to 90% dying before their fifth birthday.

Additionally, one in four Ghanaians carries the haemoglobin S or C gene, with the vast majority unaware of their SCD status.

Dr. Oko Boye explained that with this new strategy, the government aims to improve health outcomes for those living with SCD.

The policy includes establishing a robust newborn screening program, enhancing research and surveillance, expanding genetic counseling services, and fostering partnerships for resource mobilization. 

In discussing the National Vaccine Policy, Dr. Oko Boye stressed that achieving vaccine self-reliance will be essential for reducing neonatal and infant mortality.

The NVP will lay the foundation for vaccine development and manufacturing, strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system and improving access to essential vaccines, especially for children with SCD.

WHO Country Representative Dr. Frank Lule praised Ghana’s commitment to both policies, emphasizing that vaccines are one of the most powerful tools in public health.

He noted that the NVP demonstrates Ghana’s dedication to safeguarding the health of its citizens, with WHO standing by to support the implementation of both initiatives.

Dr. Oko Boye concluded by urging citizens to embrace the vision set forth in these policies. He acknowledged that while challenges may arise, collaboration and dedication will be crucial to success.

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