Agortime Ziope: Frontline health workers in the Agortime Ziope District of Ghana's Volta Region have received training in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). The training, organised by World Vision Ghana through its Agortime Ziope Area Programme, aimed to strengthen safety standards and promote healthier healthcare environments.
According to Ghana News Agency, the training was held in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and brought together over 50 nurses, midwives, community health officers, laboratory technicians, physician assistants, and disease control officers. These participants came from various Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds and health centres across the Agortime Ziope District. The goal was to equip health workers with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills to prevent and control the spread of infections within health facilities and communities.
This initiative is part of World Vision's ongoing commitment to building resilient health systems that prioritise the safety of patients, healthcare providers, and communities. This effort is especially crucial in light of lessons learned during previous public health emergencies like cholera, monkeypox, Ebola, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the opening session, Mr Eric Opoku Agyarko, the Agortime Cluster Programmes Manager, emphasised the importance of IPC in delivering quality healthcare services. He stated, "Infection prevention is not just a health issue; it's a life-saving responsibility. By investing in the capacity of our health workers, we are investing in the well-being of entire communities."
The training was facilitated by staff from the national and regional Ghana Health Service, namely Mrs Joyce Amponsah and Mrs Rejoice Anku, who guided participants through topics such as standard precautions, hand hygiene, appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), waste management, and environmental cleanliness. The sessions included demonstrations and interactive activities to reinforce practical application.
Madam Mabel Offeibea, a midwife at Akewtteh CHPs compound, noted that the training was both timely and enlightening. "Sometimes we take routine precautions for granted, but this session reminded us how critical every step is, from washing hands properly to disposing of medical waste safely," she shared.
Mr Emmanuel Ayaanga Ayaamga, the District Health Director of GHS, expressed gratitude to World Vision Ghana for their continuous support of the health sector. He added that the knowledge gained would be shared with other health workers and volunteers in the district to ensure a wider impact.
World Vision Ghana remains dedicated to supporting local health systems to reduce preventable illnesses and deaths, particularly among children and vulnerable groups.
