As part of the African Vaccination Week and Child Health Promotion Week, the Ga East Municipal Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in partnership with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has launched a vigorous community sensitisation campaign on the importance of childhood vaccination.
Held on Wednesday, the outreach event focused on educating parents and caregivers about the life-saving benefits of immunisation, while urging them to complete the routine vaccination schedules for children from birth to age five.
Mrs. Jemima Abena Konadu Mensah, Ga East NCCE Director, emphasized that full immunisation is not just a health recommendation, but a child’s right.
“Every child deserves a positive future through proper health investments. Vaccination is a critical step in ensuring that future,” she said.
Speaking on the immunisation timetable, Madam Susana Seglah, a community nurse at the Ga East Municipal Hospital, outlined the essential vaccines administered during infancy, including BCG, polio, hepatitis B, and combination vaccines that protect against pneumonia, tetanus, and diarrhoea.
She reassured the community of the safety of vaccines, noting that any side effects are generally mild and temporary.
“Vaccines build lasting immunity, save families from future health costs, and foster herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations,” she said.
Also addressing the gathering, Mrs. Joanna Ampomah Nkansah, Deputy NCCE Director, called on participants to extend the campaign message beyond their immediate circles.
“Immunisation is a shared responsibility. Let us speak to our neighbours and communities—every child, regardless of where they live, deserves good health,” she said.
This year’s Child Health Promotion Week, marked annually in May, is themed:
“Every Child Deserves a Healthy Future. Invest in Your Child, Attend Weighing Regularly.”
It focuses not only on immunisation, but also on exclusive breastfeeding, mental health, and parental commitment to preventive healthcare services.
The campaign reflects a renewed commitment by the NCCE and GHS to equitable healthcare access, and to reducing preventable childhood illnesses through proactive community involvement.
