The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) has officially commissioned a Wellness Centre aimed at promoting preventive healthcare and enhancing the overall well-being of its staff. The initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Regional Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), seeks to address the increasing risks of lifestyle-related illnesses among the working population.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, expressed her delight at the establishment of the Centre and commended the Regional Health Directorate and its partners for their commitment in bringing the project to fruition. She emphasized that the Centre is not just a physical space, but a meaningful investment in the region’s human resource—the staff who drive development at various levels across the region.
She noted that the daily pressures of work, commuting, and personal responsibilities can gradually impact individual health, leaving many vulnerable to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. She described these illnesses as “silent killers,” often developing without obvious signs until they lead to severe complications.
“The work we do at the RCC is critical. To serve effectively, we must stay healthy—physically, mentally and emotionally,” the Regional Minister stated. She added that the Wellness Centre will help shift focus from treating illness to preventing it, providing services such as regular health screenings, counselling, health education, and timely medical referrals.
The Regional Minister, Hon. Ocloo encouraged staff to take personal responsibility for their health and make full use of the Centre’s services. She urged workers to pay attention to early warning signs and avoid waiting until conditions worsen before seeking medical attention. “Your health is your wealth,” she reminded.
On his part, the Regional Director of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Robert Amesiya, commended the GARCC for demonstrating exemplary leadership by prioritizing staff wellbeing. He highlighted that the establishment of the Centre aligns with the Ministry of Health’s broader vision of ensuring that all Ghanaians attain the highest possible level of health.
Dr. Amesiya noted that integrating wellness services within workplaces is an effective strategy in combating the rising burden of NCDs among the working population. He encouraged other public and private institutions to emulate the GARCC’s initiative.
He further advised staff to fully utilize the Centre for regular medical screenings, counselling, and lifestyle improvement programmes designed to support healthier living and improve productivity.
The commissioning of the Wellness Centre marks a major step in promoting a healthy and productive workforce within the Greater Accra Region, reinforcing the Council’s commitment to staff welfare and improved public service.