AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine, organized a mini-clinic in Boete, a suburb of Obuasi, to commemorate World Sickle Cell Day.
The event aimed to provide free healthcare services to the residents and raise awareness about sickle cell disease.
The theme for this year's World Sickle Cell Day is “Building and Strengthening Global Sickle Cell Communities, Formalizing Newborn Screening and Knowing Your Sickle Cell Disease Status.”
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder characterized by abnormal red blood cells that can cause blockages in blood vessels, leading to various health complications.
The AGA Health Foundation, supported by the mining firm, set up a medical team equipped with human resources, equipment, and medication.
Participants were diagnosed with various ailments, provided with prescribed medications, and referred to the AGA Health Foundation for further treatment if needed.
The community clinic is part of AngloGold Ashanti's 10-year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) aimed at improving the lives of people in host communities.
Mr Emmanuel Baidoo, Senior Manager-Sustainability of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, emphasized the company's commitment to building resilient and self-sustaining communities through various initiatives, including healthcare interventions.
Dr Justine Dakora, Principal Medical Officer, Occupational Health of AGA Health Foundation, urged Ghanaians to stop stigmatizing individuals with sickle cell conditions and instead show them love and support.
He advised young people entering into relationships to prioritize checking each other's genotypes to ensure a better understanding of potential risks.
Dr Enock Addo Sarkodie, a Pediatrician Specialist at AGA Children Hospital, highlighted the genetic nature of sickle cell disease and emphasized the importance of being cautious when choosing life partners.
He also mentioned the potential for a cure through a procedure called “Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant,” although it is currently not widely available in Ghana and can be expensive.
The mini-clinic provided an opportunity for thousands of residents to check their health status and undergo screenings for various ailments, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.