Driving change: How a dedicated health officer is transforming rural Ghana
The story of Francis Ayamga bringing healthcare to Ghana's farthest communities
In the remote village of Tengzuk, Ghana, a committed Community Health Officer (CHO) named Francis Ayamga is making a significant impact on the lives of residents. Dedicated to public health, Francis ensures that underserved communities within his jurisdiction have access to vital healthcare services. His diverse work includes conducting home visits, providing school health support, monitoring child growth, and following up with individuals who have missed their health appointments.
Connecting with the Community Through Home Visits
One of Francis's primary responsibilities is to conduct regular home visits throughout the Tengzuk community. During these visits, he introduces himself to residents and checks on their overall health, paying special attention to children under five, pregnant women, and the elderly.
"When I visit these homes, my goal is to truly understand the challenges families are facing when it comes to their health,"
"I want to create a dialogue, to listen and learn, so I can provide the most tailored and effective support possible."
Through these interactions, Francis can identify any concerns related to the growth and development of young children. He carefully reviews each child's health records, assessing their progress and offering personalised counselling to mothers or caregivers. Together, they create an action plan to address any potential issues.
"It's not just about the numbers on the growth chart," Francis says. "It's about understanding the bigger picture—the living conditions, access to nutritious food, and overall family dynamics. Only then can we truly make a difference in the lives of these children."
Expanding Reach with the Help of KOICA
Another crucial aspect of Francis's work is providing school health services. Thanks to the generous support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), he now has a motorbike, which has greatly expanded his ability to reach remote communities that were previously inaccessible.
"Before I had the motorbike, there were so many areas I simply couldn't get to," Francis recalls.
"It was heartbreaking to know there were families out there who needed help, but we just couldn't reach them. Now, with this new transportation, we can access these far-off communities and provide the essential health services they deserve."
When visiting schools, Francis works closely with the school's health teacher, collaborating to assess the environment and identify any potential issues. Once inside the classroom, he engages with students, educating them on important health topics and ensuring their needs are met.
"It's not just about providing medical care," Francis explains. "It's about empowering these children, teaching them the importance of good health and hygiene, and equipping them with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions throughout their lives."