In a heartwarming move that has reignited hope for many women suffering from obstetric fistula in Northern Ghana, Qatar Charity Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and the United Nations Population Fund, has officially launched the construction of a state-of-the-art Fistula Holding Home at the Yendi Government Hospital. The sod-cutting ceremony, held in Yendi, marked the beginning of a significant project aimed at transforming maternal healthcare in the region and restoring dignity to women afflicted by this devastating condition.
Obstetric fistula, a severe and often life-altering medical condition, occurs when prolonged or obstructed labour causes a tear between the birth canal and either the bladder or rectum, resulting in uncontrollable leakage of urine or faeces. Beyond the physical suffering, it inflicts deep emotional and social scars, often leading to stigma and social exclusion. The new facility, when completed, is expected to serve as a beacon of hope for these women, offering not just medical treatment but a safe haven for psychological recovery and social reintegration.
Ben Appaiagyai, a representative of the hospital’s Health Information Office, stressed the need for strong collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the project’s success. Alhaji Alhassan Sulemana Gonje, Chairman of the Yendi Government Hospital Board, also highlighted the growing need for specialised fistula care, describing the initiative as both timely and vital to the dignity of women in the region. He noted that without such a facility, managing fistula cases had been a persistent challenge that affected countless lives.
Dr Marion Okoh, Director of Family Health, spoke passionately about the immense burden fistula places on women and their families. She shared how sufferers often face isolation due to the uncontrollable nature of the condition, and stressed the need for holistic care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery. Her words echoed the sentiments of many healthcare professionals advocating for more inclusive and sensitive maternal healthcare systems.
Hasan Owda, Country Director of Qatar Charity Ghana, reaffirmed his organisation’s unwavering dedication to supporting vulnerable populations through impactful healthcare solutions. He thanked all partnering institutions for their commitment, promising to ensure that the facility is delivered on time and meets international standards of care. UNFPA’s Country Representative, Dr Wilfred Ochan, added that the project aligns perfectly with the agency’s mission to promote maternal health and eliminate obstetric fistula. He applauded the work of the Partnership for Elimination of Fistula in Ghana (PEFIG), whose continued efforts have helped mobilise resources for such transformative interventions.
Northern Regional Minister John Ali Adolf, represented the government and expressed full support for the initiative. He praised the stakeholders for their shared vision and sacrifice, calling the project a bold step toward ending fistula and improving healthcare delivery in Northern Ghana. So far, 22 fistula surgeries have already been successfully conducted at the Yendi Government Hospital, with an additional nine treated at the Tamale West Hospital in 2024.
This initiative not only promises healing but also offers women the chance to rebuild their lives with dignity, hope, and renewed purpose.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0