Ghana

Mother and Baby Care in Kumasi (2007-present)

Kumasi is the second largest city in Ghana. The HIV prevalence in Kumasi is estimated at approximately double that of the national figure. Approximately half of the pediatric HIV patients are co-infected with tuberculosis, and only 10% of pregnant women attending the ante-natal clinic agree to an AIDS test. In addition, there is a critical problem of malnutrition, especially in the case of children. The hospitals in the city are extremely busy and overcrowded, and lack sufficient diagnostic tools. They also face insurmountable infection control problems.

In order to tackle these issues, JDC-IDP is partnering with MASHAV (the Center for International Cooperation; Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs) to assist in setting up much needed Mother and Baby Units in Kumasi. This program is part of the UN Millennium Cities Health Initiative. Following a fact-finding mission, a program has been designed to improve training and increase capacity building for Kumasi health professionals. This includes training programs for local physicians and nurses on the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases common in Ghana and on taking care of sick newborns. A further workshop will tackle the importance of collaboration among healthcare sectors, post graduate education of healthcare personnel in the primary care setting, and methods for health education in the community. Nurses from Kumasi will also be hosted by Ben Gurion University to build the necessary skills for their work in neonatal care units. JDC is assisting with the expenses incurred by local staff on the training programs.