An initiative called the National Media Vaccine Network has been launched in Accra to promote vaccine uptake throughout Ghana.
The initiative comprises of over 50 journalists from all regions in the country, supported by organizations such as the Ghana Health Service and the World Health Organization.
Its objective is to counter misinformation about vaccines and emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated. The network is led by the African Media and Malaria Research Network (AMMREN) Executive Secretary, Dr Charity Binka, and Dr Emmanuel Addipa-Adapoe, a senior medical officer at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.
The National Media Vaccine Network was launched during the closing ceremony of a two-day training workshop for over 50 journalists from all 16 regions of Ghana.
The workshop aimed to provide journalists with the necessary knowledge to effectively report and improve vaccine uptake in Ghana. It was organised by the African Media and Malaria Research Network from April 15-16, 2024, under the theme "Vaccine Uptake in Ghana: The Role of the Media."
Dr Charity Binka, Executive Secretary of the African Media and Malaria Research Network, highlighted the critical role vaccines play in preventing infections and reducing associated morbidity and mortality rates.
She added that the network has prioritized efforts to raise awareness, increase accessibility, and foster trust in vaccination initiatives among Ghanaian communities. Dr Binka emphasized the importance of collaboration between the media and public health organizations in promoting vaccine uptake.
Dr Michael Adjei, a representative from the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized the pivotal role that journalists play in ensuring people have access to accurate, up-to-date information about health issues, especially vaccines.
He noted that misinformation and mistrust continue to pose significant challenges, and journalists can help overcome vaccine hesitancy and promote a culture of immunization throughout the country through powerful storytelling.
Joel Abekuliya, the Head of the Family Communication Health Promotion division of the Ghana Health Service, assured AMMREN of the GHS's commitment to ensuring widespread access to vaccines and promoting informed decision-making among the public.