Okyeame Kwame
THE Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) says it is collaborating with comedians and artistes, who played roles in the ‘Kejetia and Makola’ television programmes, to sensitize the public on how to prevent the stigmatization of persons who have recovered from Covid-19.
Dr Ernest Kwarko, technical advisor to the KMA Covid-19 team, who announced this on Luv FM in Kumasi, said, “We are coming up with measures to kill the stigma. We are using infotainment, drama and short plays to sensitize the public on the need to avoid stigmatization.”
He disclosed this when the KMA Covid-19 team donated assorted food items and sanitary materials to the Ghana AIDS Commission to share to its members.
He said a number of activities had been put in place by KMA and would be spearheaded by celebrities to educate the people about the negative effects of the stigma.
Dr. Ernest Kwarko, who is worried about increasing stigma against persons who have been infected by Covid-19, said, “The recent stigma on Covid-19 is a wakeup call for all of us to rise and fight against the canker.”
He therefore, called for support for the team to educate the public through drama and plays.
“We want the buy-in of the general public especially those who can support us in diverse ways to make the idea a reality.”
Stigmatization remains a huge challenge on the fight against Covid-19, as patients face negative public attitude, with reports of community protests to setting up of isolation centres.