DAILY GUIDE Picks Health AWARD

The Health Legend Foundation, Africa, has awarded DAILY GUIDE for making a mark in the area of health advocacy and general well-being of Ghanaians through the publication of high quality stories and articles on health.

The paper's recognition in the competitive award category as the health advocacy paper of the year adds to the number of awards DAILY GUIDE has won in recent times.

Touted as Ghana's favourite private newspaper, DAILY GUIDE recently won the Best Brand in Private Press at this year’s prestigious Top Quality Brand Awards.

A section of the citation presented by Kwame Dzikunu, executive director of Health Legend Foundation Africa, read, 'Your exceptionality in the provision of the high-quality stories, features and articles on health has made you a giant among your peers and the preferred newspaper for health information in the media industry.'

The citation further read, 'Your application and use of well-researched topics in providing general knowledge on preventive healthcare and wellness has endeared you to many people across the length and breadth of this nation.'

Explaining the criteria for the selection of award winners, Mr Dzikunu mentioned that selection of award winners were based on rigorous procedure coupled with the public's vote.

He said it was time healthcare organisations and professionals were recognised for their sacrificial work instead of being criticised for the little mistakes they do, hence the awards.

'Over the past three years, this organisation has recognised policy makers, health institution and individual who have impacted on the lives of people,' he said.

E. Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, Sun Baohong, who was also an award recipient, appreciated the organisers for fostering the fruitful relationship between China and Ghana.

She said China has over the years supported the country in its health interventions such as training health professionals and providing medical equipment for health institutions.

Dr Linda Van-Otoo, Greater Accra regional health director, in her remarks as the chairperson for the occasion, said as a result of recent agitations by professionals in the health sector, people think doctors or some health workers are insensitive to patients.

She, however, said, 'It is very difficult to save lives and so if you find people who appreciate you it encourages you to do more.'

In all, 21 health institutions, personalities and media organisations were recognised for their immense contribution to healthcare delivery and advocacy in the country.

Dr Koku Awoonor Williams, Upper East regional health director, won the Health Personality of The Year Award and the Ghana Disease Control Programme Department also took home the Star Award, the highest of all the awards.

By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri