Parents, beauticians, teachers, out-of-school children, and health professionals in Sheaga, a community in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, have pledged their full support for the upcoming rollout of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
The commitment follows their participation in a Regional Forum on HPV Vaccination and Menstrual Hygiene Management, organized by Curious Minds with support from UNICEF Ghana and partners.
Community members assured that they will serve as ambassadors of change, countering misinformation and misconceptions to ensure the vaccine’s success.
Speaking at the event, Madam Sore Zuuga, a woman in her late 50s, described the sensitization program as “timely and life-changing,” pledging to advocate for the vaccination.
Similarly, Fustina Somah, a mother of two, promised to spread the message before and after the rollout, stressing how vital the vaccine is to combating HPV-related diseases.
For the younger generation, the forum was equally impactful. A 16-year-old schoolgirl shared how her understanding of menstrual hygiene and self-care had been transformed, expressing gratitude for the platform.
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with over 100 strains. While many infections clear on their own, high-risk types can lead to cancers such as cervical, anal, and head and neck cancers, making vaccination critical.
Explaining the initiative, Kingsley Obeng Kyere, Executive Coordinator of Curious Minds, said it aims to strengthen community systems, improve access to information, and generate demand for adolescent health services.
He emphasized that the forum is part of nationwide efforts to raise awareness ahead of the HPV vaccine rollout by the Ghana Health Service in October 2025.
“Our goal is to increase awareness of the dangers of HPV, promote free vaccine availability, encourage parental support, and challenge stigma and misinformation around HPV and menstruation,” Mr. Kyere noted.
George Julius Afful, a nurse with the Ghana Health Service in Talensi, also urged parents and adolescents to embrace the vaccine wholeheartedly.
Adding his voice, Samuel Azuure, Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Education Service in Talensi, pledged that schools would prioritize the campaign to dispel myths and foster trust.
Source: A1radioonline.com | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
