Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia has called for an end to the stigmatization against cured lepers and assured the government's commitment to supporting them with their basic needs. His remarks were made during the observation of the 2024 World Leprosy Day at the Weija Leprosarium in Accra.
Addressing attendees, including residents of the leprosarium and stakeholders, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of treating cured lepers with dignity and love, highlighting that there is no risk of transmission after treatment. He urged society to embrace them, emphasizing that contracting the disease was not their fault and that they deserved care and support.
The Vice President outlined government initiatives in the fight against leprosy, including infrastructure development at leprosaria nationwide and support services. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to facilitating national programs to assist marginalized individuals affected by leprosy.
Dr. Bawumia noted improvements in the fight against leprosy over the past seven years, attributing progress to better collaboration with the National Leprosy Program under the Ghana Health Service. Despite gains, he acknowledged that leprosy still exists in Ghana and pledged to do more to eradicate it.
Government interventions mentioned by the Vice President included the redevelopment of projects at Weija Leprosarium, renovations at Ankaful Leprosarium General Hospital, and the establishment of facilities such as laboratories and clinics. He also highlighted the distribution of food and medical supplies to affected individuals across various districts.
During the ceremony, Dr. Bawumia initiated the construction of a kitchen for the Weija Leprosarium, demonstrating the government's tangible support for leprosy patients.
World Leprosy Day, observed annually on the last Sunday of January, aims to raise awareness about the disease. Vice President Bawumia, known for his advocacy against leprosy stigmatization, reaffirmed his commitment by spending the day at the leprosarium, advocating for dignity and support for cured lepers.
