Mr Samuel Yao Atidzah, Executive Director of GOSANET Foundation, has described it as an “injustice of the highest order” to deny girls the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, emphasising that it is the surest lifesaving intervention against cervical cancer.
Speaking during a sensitisation session at the Ho Central Mosque, Mr Atidzah said the HPV vaccine is “safe, effective and free,” and strongly protects against infections that can lead to cervical cancer later in life. He appealed to parents and guardians—particularly in Muslim communities—not to deprive girls aged nine to 14 of the opportunity to be vaccinated.
Get more exclusive breaking news updates on our WhatsApp channel .
“I am pleading with all parents and guardians, especially those in Ho and across the Volta Region, to permit their daughters to take the vaccine to secure their future against cervical cancer,” he stated.
Mr Atidzah stressed that cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women in Ghana, with HPV infection as its most common cause. He explained that early vaccination provides the strongest protection.
The nationwide vaccination exercise, organised by the Ghana Health Service (GHS), runs from 7th to 11th October 2025 and targets girls aged nine to 14. After the campaign, the HPV vaccine will be incorporated into Ghana’s routine immunisation schedule for all girls upon turning nine years of age.
As an implementing partner of the Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health, GOSANET Foundation is working with the Ho Municipal Health Directorate to carry out GAVI CDS Year 3 activities in the Ho Municipality.
Mr Atidzah reaffirmed GOSANET’s commitment to supporting immunisation and health education initiatives to protect women and children, urging community, religious, and opinion leaders to educate their congregations and members about the benefits of the HPV vaccine.
