By Celestine Avi
Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama has successfully organised the first free health screening programme for members of the Assemblies of God Retired Ministers and Spouses Association in Accra.
The programme, financed by the former First Lady through the Lordina Foundation, fulfils a September 14th pledge to organise a quarterly exercise for retired pastors of the Church and their wives.
Services provided include laboratory tests for blood sugar levels, Hepatitis B, and prostate health. There were also medical consultations with urologists, gynaecologists, dietitians, opticians, and general practitioners.
The foundation provided free medications to those who were required to purchase drugs. Rev. Kwame Sarpong Boateng, a board member of the Lordina Foundation, said the initiative aims to alleviate concerns about the medical welfare of retired ministers and their spouses.
He highlighted some of the Foundation’s charitable initiatives, including regular support and donations to orphanages, widows, and the elderly; construction of maternity and children’s wards in three regions; provision of medical supplies to health facilities; assistance to artisans; and other impactful social projects.
Rev. Sarpong Boateng commended Mrs Mahama for her thoughtfulness and innovative approach to addressing social challenges.
Dr. Padiki Derban, leader of the medical team, applauded the initiative, noting that some members of the association may not be able to afford certain medications due to their high prices, making the initiative a timely and beneficial intervention.
Reverend Professor Kwesi Krereko, the immediate past president of the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, a beneficiary of the programme, said it provides a vital lifeline for retired ministers and their spouses. He believes that the programme will enhance healthcare for the members and extend their lives after active service in the ministry.
The Association’s President, Reverend Dr. Harry Insaidoo, was amazed at the thoroughness of the screening.
“This kind of screening would cost a fortune if we had sought care at a medical facility. The prices for some of the medications provided for free at this event are very high. Receiving all these treatments and medications at no cost is incredibly heartwarming. It is a delight to see one of our own supporting the retired servants of the gospel,” he stated.
Reverend Dr Insaidoo explained that many members who are on pension struggle to afford their medications because of their high costs, making the Lordina Foundation initiative particularly divine.
Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama, who interacted with the medical team and the beneficiaries, expressed excitement about the turnout and hoped that “future events would be even more successful”.
