Pharm. Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has expressed its sympathies to the ongoing crisis faced by individuals displaced due to the recent spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams.
The society, in a statement to show its solidarity, said it is actively engaging its members, especially those from the Volta Regional Branch, to collaborate with healthcare professionals, health directorates, and relevant institutions involved in relief efforts to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
The statement signed by its president, Pharm. Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh said, “we are working in close coordination with healthcare professionals and the health directorate to ensure that the victims receive the essential healthcare they need.”
He further noted that it is reaching out to pharmaceutical companies to secure necessary medicines and health products to complement the ongoing relief efforts.
“In addition to medical support, we are providing relief items such as bedding, drinking water, toiletries, detergents, and groceries. These essential items will be distributed through established official channels to benefit the victims,” he said.
The society recommended that the government and parliament take immediate action to establish a National Emergency Relief and Public Health Fund to serve as a sustainable means of support for not only the victims of this current disaster but also for those who may face similar challenges in the future.
“In order to create a stable foundation to support any future disaster or public health emergency, we propose that the existing COVID-19 Fund be considered the initial seed and a component of the proposed National Emergency Relief and Public Health Fund.
It is crucial that this fund remain separate from the consolidated fund and is not subject to any capping. We also encourage a coordinated effort to solicit funds from individuals and corporate entities to augment the financial resources of the fund,” the society said.
The PSGH affirmed its commitment to providing support to those affected by the Akosombo and Kpong dam spillages and any future disasters that may arise.
“We extend our gratitude to all individuals and organizations involved in the relief efforts and express our heartfelt sympathy to the victims in this trying period,” it said.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri