In a steadfast commitment to eradicate obstetric fistula in Ghana, Access Bank (Ghana) Plc reaffirms its dedication to this crucial cause. Since its inception in 2018, the bank's "Fist Against Fistula" campaign has been a beacon of hope, raising awareness through impactful initiatives such as a 10-kilometre walk across the nation.
Managing Director of Access Bank (Ghana) Plc, Olumide Olatunji, emphasizes the bank's strategic vision, aiming to champion sustainable businesses. He asserts that by investing in the well-being of women affected by fistula, the bank is fostering empowered citizens capable of driving economic development in Ghana and beyond.
At the recent 2024 International Day to End Obstetric Fistula (IDEOF), Oluwaseun David-Akindele, Head of Corporate Communications and Brand Management, highlighted the urgency to eliminate stigma surrounding childbirth-related issues. David-Akindele stressed the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders to advocate against stigma, raise awareness, and secure funding for surgeries.
Obstetric fistula remains a significant challenge, especially for women and girls in remote areas lacking access to essential obstetric care. Globally, an estimated 500,000 women and girls live with fistula, with Ghana recording approximately 1,300 new cases annually, particularly in regions such as Upper East, Upper West, Northern, Central, and Savannah.
Dignitaries including the First Lady of Ghana, Rebecca Akuffo Addo, the Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Ingrid Mollestad, and UNFPA's Country Representative, Dr. Wilfred Ochan, convened at IDEOF to lend their support.
Access Bank's impactful contributions include funding close to 200 fistula repairs, marking it as a leading force in combating the condition. These efforts fall under the bank's Women Empowerment Programme, 'W' initiative, aimed at accelerating fistula repairs and the reintegration of affected women and girls.
The launch of Partnerships to End Obstetric Fistula in Ghana (PEFIG) further solidifies Access Bank's commitment, alongside key partners like UNFPA, the Fistula Task Force, and the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection. Together, they seek to amplify awareness, eliminate stigma, and raise funds to accelerate progress towards the UN's goal of ending obstetric fistula by 2030.
In collaboration with Chango, a crowdfunding platform, Access Bank Ghana will raise funds to support fistula repairs and reintegration efforts. Moreover, the bank calls upon other corporate entities to join in mobilizing domestic resources towards this noble cause.
Access Bank's 'W' initiative remains at the forefront of its financial inclusion agenda, providing tailored products and services to support women in their entrepreneurial endeavors, family well-being, and overall lifestyle goals.
Together, with unwavering determination and collaborative efforts, Access Bank is leading the charge to ensure a future where obstetric fistula is no longer a barrier to women's health and empowerment in Ghana.