May 13, 2024 – Senegal Newswire

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre Welcomes New Deputy CEO Amid Strategic Transformations

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has recently welcomed Dr. Björn Zoéga as its Deputy CEO, an appointment that underscores its commitment to promoting and fostering healthcare excellence. Dr. Zoéga, renowned for his extensive experience in healthcare management and policy, joins a dedicated team as the hospital continues to drive key strategic initiatives.

KFSH&RC, a leader in medical research and clinical services, continues to attract global expertise to bolster its vision of healthcare excellence. With Dr. Zoéga’s involvement, the hospital is advancing a digital transformation strategy designed to improve operational efficiency and enhance patient care. His expertise in fostering international collaborations, evidenced by his former role as president of the European University Hospital Alliance (EUHA) and through initiatives like JOIN4ATMP aimed at advancing access to innovative therapies, further aligns KFSH&RC’s services with global healthcare trends.

Key projects at KFSH&RC include the deployment of advanced digital technologies to streamline the patient care process, the adoption of innovative care models, and the upgrading of facility amenities. These strategic efforts aim to improve access to medical services and facilitate better communication, reflecting KFSH&RC’s dedication to setting new standards in healthcare.

Dr. Zoéga’s previous contributions at Karolinska University Hospital, which is ranked the second best in Europe and seventh globally by Newsweek’s 2024 World’s Best Hospitals, where he nurtured a culture of continuous learning and collaboration among healthcare professionals, align well with KFSH&RC’s objectives. His role in fostering programs like EUCARE and facilitating the Europe-wide exchange of intensive care nurses during crises has significantly enhanced staff development and supported his previous hospital’s goal of attracting top talent—a principle mirrored in KFSH&RC’s transformation journey. With Dr. Zoéga contributing to leadership, KFSH&RC is poised to further its role as a pivotal player in shaping the future of healthcare in Saudi Arabia.

About King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre:

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre stands among the global leaders in providing specialized healthcare, driving innovation, and serving as an advanced medical research and education hub. Through strategic partnerships with prominent local, regional, and international institutions, the hospital is dedicated to advancing medical technologies and elevating healthcare standards worldwide.

The hospital has secured its position as the leading brand in the healthcare sector across the Kingdom and the Middle East, marking its second consecutive year as the most valuable healthcare brand. It ranks 9th within the Kingdom and 28th in the Middle East. The hospital distinguishes itself as the sole hospital globally to break into the top 10 brands in its country, as highlighted in two reports by “Brand Finance” on the 50 most valuable brands in Saudi Arabia and the 150 most valuable brands in the Middle East in 2024.

Due to the transformation programs and the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, launched by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister – may God protect him – to enhance the Kingdom’s leadership in the global healthcare sector, KFSH&RC has emerged as a leading Academic Medical Centre in the Middle East and Africa. It maintained its 20th rank globally for the second consecutive year in 2024, according to “Brand Finance.” Additionally, it has been ranked among the top 250 hospitals globally in 2024 by the American magazine “Newsweek.”

For further information, please contact:

Mr. Essam AlZahrani, Acting Head of Media Affairs, 0555254429

Mr. Abdullah Alown, Media Coordination Officer, 0556294232

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/83d04605-9a75-41cb-8947-81c858209621

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Impulse Dynamics Surpasses 10,000 Patients Benefiting From CCM® Therapy for Heart Failure

Milestone Highlights Transformative Symptom Management for Patients Living with Heart Failure

Marlton, NJ, May 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Impulse Dynamics, a global medical device company dedicated to improving the lives of people with heart failure (HF), announced today that it has reached a worldwide milestone by surpassing 10,000 patients having received the Optimizer^®system for the treatment of moderate HF. This milestone highlights the benefit and importance of this therapy in helping patients live a full life with HF.

“I noticed positive changes since the procedure, such as not feeling cold or numb, I could walk every day and everywhere, did my regular chores and shopping, and shared activities like swimming with my daughter,” said Tracey, who received her CCM^® device in 2023. “I’m no longer huffing, puffing, or gasping for air,” said Joe, another HF patient who received his CCM device in 2022. “I’m reborn ─ a whole new person ─ no longer incapacitated. My life has changed so much that we’re considering taking a trip. And my wife is ecstatic because I have my life back, and we have ours again.”

“We are deeply motivated by the patients who benefit from CCM therapy. Their progress inspires us to continuously enhance our technology, aiming to improve the lives of those suffering from heart failure,” said David Prutchi, Chief Technology Officer for Impulse Dynamics, who has worked on the development of CCM therapy since its inception.

David had the opportunity to meet one of these patients, Raynita, who was implanted with an Optimizer device this year. Raynita saw immediate improvement after starting CCM therapy and gave the following remarks on the experience: “I feel like a different person. I can do things I haven’t done in years. I am attending my granddaughter’s college graduation!”

CCM is available in 44 countries, and the technology has continued to advance, based on the needs of patients and physicians. The latest generation of the proprietary CCM technology is the Optimizer Smart Mini, which offers a rechargeable battery with 20-year battery life and a smaller size designed to make the implant procedure faster and easier for patients and physicians.

“We are committed to ongoing innovation in this important therapy that has such a clear clinical need around the world,” said Jason Spees, CEO of Impulse Dynamics. “We are also getting closer to significantly impacting the implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) market with successful enrollment in our INTEGRA-D clinical trial on the CCM-D^® HF System, which is the first-of-its-kind technology, combining the lifesaving benefits of an ICD with HF symptom relief through CCM therapy in one device.”

The patients statements in this Press Release represent the testimonials of their individual outcomes and may not be typical for all patients.

About the Optimizer and CCM Therapy

The Optimizer Smart Mini system delivers CCM therapy — the company’s proprietary technology — to the heart, providing an important treatment option for the millions of patients suffering from heart failure. CCM therapy is designed to significantly improve heart contraction, allowing more oxygen-rich blood to be pushed out through the body.[1] CCM therapy is indicated to improve 6-minute hall walk, quality of life, and functional status of NYHA Class III HF patients who remain symptomatic despite guideline directed medical therapy, are not indicated for CRT, and have a left ventricular ejection fraction ranging from 25 to 45 percent.

CCM is the brand name for cardiac contractility modulation—the non-excitatory electrical pulses delivered by the implantable Optimizer device to improve heart contraction. CCM therapy sends unique electrical pulses to the heart cells during the absolute refractory period. In doing so, CCM helps the heart contract more forcibly. Impulse Dynamics has completed numerous clinical studies, including several randomized controlled trials, the results of which appeared in more than 100 articles from leading medical journals.

About Impulse Dynamics

Impulse Dynamics is dedicated to advancing the treatment of heart failure for patients and the healthcare providers who care for them. The company pioneered its proprietary CCM therapy, which uses the Optimizer technology platform to improve quality of life in HF patients. CCM therapy is delivered through the Optimizer system, which includes an implantable pulse generator (IPG) implanted in a minimally invasive procedure and approved for commercial use in the United States and 44 countries worldwide. More than 10,000 patients have received the therapy as part of clinical trials and real-world use, where it is proven to be safe and effective for heart failure patients with debilitating symptoms who otherwise have few effective options available to them. To learn more, visit www.ImpulseDynamics.com, or follow the company on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as ‘‘may,’’ ‘‘will,’’ ‘‘should,’’ ‘‘expect,’’ ‘‘plan,’’ ‘‘anticipate,’’ ‘‘could,’’ ‘‘intend,’’ ‘‘target,’’ ‘‘project,’’ ‘‘contemplate,’’ ‘‘believe,’’ ‘‘estimate,’’ ‘‘predict,’’ ‘‘potential’’ or ‘‘continue’’ or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning potential benefits of CCM therapy. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Other important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those contemplated in this press release include, without limitation: the company’s future research and development costs, capital requirements and the company’s needs for additional financing; commercial success and market acceptance of CCM therapy; the company’s ability to achieve and maintain adequate levels of coverage or reimbursement for Optimizer systems or any future products the company may seek to commercialize; competitive companies and technologies in the industry; the company’s ability to expand its indications and develop and commercialize additional products and enhancements to its current products; the company’s business model and strategic plans for its products, technologies and business, including its implementation thereof; the company’s ability to expand, manage and maintain its direct sales and marketing organization; the company’s ability to commercialize or obtain regulatory approvals for CCM therapy and its products, or the effect of delays in commercializing or obtaining regulatory approvals; FDA or other U.S. or foreign regulatory actions affecting us or the healthcare industry generally, including healthcare reform measures in the United States and international markets; the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals; and the company’s ability to establish and maintain intellectual property protection for CCM therapy and products or avoid claims of infringement. The company does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements and expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the company’s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.

[1] European Journal of Heart Failure (2021) doi:10.1002/ejhf.2202

Attachment

David and Raynita

Scott Way, Executive Vice President, General Counsel
Impulse Dynamics
856-434-7906
sway@impulsedynamics.com

Rohan More, Global Vice President, Marketing
Impulse Dynamics
856-642-9933
rmore@impulsedynamics.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9116301

Le KFSH&RC s’efforce d’être un pionnier dans la valorisation optimale des dépenses de santé

Le Dr Al Fayyadh à l’Université de Harvard : « Nous nous reposons sur la technologie pour relever les enjeux de santé à l’échelle mondiale »

RIYAD, Arabie saoudite, 12 mai 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Le Dr Majid Al Fayyadh, directeur de l’hôpital spécialisé et centre de recherche King Faisal, ou KFSH&RC pour King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, a rejoint la conférence Gulf Creatives 2024, organisée à Harvard. L’organisation de cet événement est assurée par The Diwan, un collectif dirigé par des étudiants diplômés de la célèbre université. Dans son discours, le Dr Al Fayyadh a présenté la trajectoire du KFSH&RC depuis sa création à Riyad il y a presque cinquante ans, mettant en avant comment il est parvenu à réduire considérablement la nécessité de se rendre à l’étranger pour les patients en quête de soins médicaux. L’hôpital spécialisé et centre de recherche King Faisal est aujourd’hui un prestataire de santé de premier ordre qui propose des solutions de pointe pour le traitement des maladies cardiaques, des tumeurs, des greffes d’organes et des troubles génétiques.

Le Dr Al Fayyadh a également évoqué la transformation de l’établissement en une fondation indépendante à but non lucratif. Cette démarche, a-t-il indiqué, s’inscrit dans la vision stratégique de l’hôpital à devenir un leader mondial de l’innovation au service de la santé, en focalisant les efforts sur l’excellence, l’innovation et les investissements dans la technologie de pointe pour relever les enjeux de santé à l’échelle mondiale.

« Les instances leader du royaume ont établi un objectif clair pour le KFSH&RC, sous mandat d’un décret royal faisant converger l’hôpital en une fondation indépendante en genre propre, et à but non lucratif » explique Son Excellence le Dr Al Fayyadh.

A souligné par ailleurs que cette transformation vise à relever les normes internationales applicables aux soins de santé au profit de plus d’indépendance et de flexibilité. Cette évolution statutaire permettra au KFSH&RC d’optimiser les services existants, de poursuivre de nouvelles opportunités et d’axer ses ressources sur des initiatives jouant en faveur de la santé et du bien-être humain au sein du royaume et à l’échelle internationale. En fin de compte, cette initiative renforce l’engagement du KFSH&RC envers l’excellence centrée sur le patient.

Le Dr Al Fayyadh a observé que le KFSH&RC se considère comme un leader de la valorisation optimale des dépenses de santé, en adoptant des pratiques fondées sur des preuves aux fins de garantir les meilleurs résultats pour les patients. Il cherche à rester à l’avant-garde de l’innovation mondiale en matière de santé en pilotant des initiatives conçues pour accroître l’équité en matière de santé et l’accès aux soins dans le monde entier. À cet effet, l’hôpital poursuivra ses investissements dans des installations médicales de pointe, des outils de diagnostic avancés et des technologies de traitement de pointe. En s’appuyant sur les progrès réalisés dans des domaines tels que la thérapie cellulaire CAR T, les opérations chirurgicales robotisées, les greffes d’organes et la médecine personnalisée, l’institution aspire atteindre une compétitivité mondiale. Elle y parviendra d’autant mieux en privilégiant l’embauche d’un personnel exceptionnel, en poursuivant des percées dignes d’un prix Nobel et en renforçant les collaborations internationales stratégiques.

Le Dr Al Fayyadh a participé à une table ronde et y a souligné l’évolution du paysage de la santé et les résultats positifs issus de la transformation permanente des soins aux patients apportés par le KFSH&RC. Il a également abordé les enjeux actuels et les développements de demain qui se dessinent au sein du secteur de la santé, en insistant sur les effets prononcés des innovations de l’hôpital sur l’évolution de la santé mondiale. Enfin, le Dr Al Fayyadh a mis en lumière l’efficacité propre aux desseins de transformation de l’hôpital au double regard des objectifs du programme royal de transformation du secteur de la santé et du projet « Saudi Vision 2030 ».

Le KFSH&RC est reconnu parmi les principales institutions du monde à fournir des soins de santé spécialisés, à incarner l’innovation et à faire acte de centre de recherche médicale et d’éducation avancé. L’hôpital se consacre au développement de technologies médicales et au relèvement du niveau des soins de santé dans le monde entier, en forgeant des partenariats avec des institutions locales, régionales et internationales de premier plan pour atteindre les meilleures pratiques dans les domaines cliniques, de recherche et d’éducation.

Pour la deuxième année consécutive, le KFSH&RC a été consacré au titre de la première institution du royaume et se classe à la 20e position du classement mondial distinguant les 250 principaux centres médicaux universitaires du monde. Son empreinte est également reconnue au titre de la marque de santé la plus valorisée du royaume et du Moyen-Orient en 2024, selon Brand Finance, et le magazine Newsweek l’a classé parmi les 250 meilleurs hôpitaux du monde.

À propos de l’hôpital spécialisé et centre de recherche King Faisal :

Le King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre fait partie des leaders mondiaux en matière de soins de santé spécialisés, et d’innovation, servant de centre de formation et de recherche médicale avancée. Grâce à des partenariats stratégiques avec d’éminents établissements locaux, régionaux et internationaux, l’hôpital se consacre à l’avancement des technologies médicales et à l’élévation des normes de soins de santé dans le monde entier.

L’hôpital a conforté sa position de leader du secteur de la santé en Arabie saoudite et au Moyen-Orient, en se voyant décerner pour la deuxième année consécutive le titre de marque de santé la plus valorisée. Il se classe 9e du royaume et 28e au Moyen-Orient. L’hôpital se distingue en étant le seul hôpital du monde à figurer au top 10 des marques de son pays, comme le soulignent deux rapports de « Brand Finance » consacrés aux 50 meilleures marques d’Arabie saoudite et aux 150 meilleures marques du Moyen-Orient en 2024, respectivement.

En raison des programmes de transformation et du projet royal « Saudi Vision 2030 » initié par Son Altesse Royale le Prince Héritier et Premier Ministre – que Dieu le préserve – pour renforcer le leadership du royaume dans le secteur de la santé mondiale, le KFSH&RC est devenu un centre médical universitaire de première importance dans la région MENA. En 2024, il s’est classé au 20e rang mondial pour la deuxième année consécutive selon « Brand Finance », et s’est également distingué parmi les 250 meilleurs hôpitaux du monde selon le magazine américain « Newsweek » cette même année.

Pour tout complément d’information, veuillez contacter :

M. Essam AlZahrani, Responsable des affaires médiatiques, 0555254429

M. Abdullah Alown, Coordinateur médias, 0556294232

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KFSH&RC Dedicado a Ser Pioneiro na Maximização do Valor dos Gastos com Saúde

Dr. Al Fayyadh em Harvard: Utilizamos a Tecnologia para Enfrentar os Desafios Globais de Saúde

RIADE, Arábia Saudita, May 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — O Dr. Majid Al Fayyadh, CEO do King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) participa da Gulf Creatives Conference (GCC) at Harvard 2024. O evento, GCC at Harvard, é organizado pela The Diwan, uma organização dirigida por estudantes de pós-graduação da Universidade de Harvard. No seu discurso, o Dr. Al Fayyadh exibiu a jornada do KFSH&RC desde a sua criação em Riade há quase cinco décadas, mostrando como o hospital reduziu significativamente a necessidade de os pacientes viajarem para outros países para obterem cuidados médicos. O KFSH&RC passou a ser um prestador de serviços de saúde terciário de primeira linha e hoje oferece tratamentos de ponta para doenças cardíacas, tumores, transplante de órgãos e distúrbios genéticos.

O Dr. Al Fayyadh discutiu a transformação do KFSH&RC em uma fundação independente e sem fins lucrativos. Essa iniciativa, segundo ele, está alinhada com a visão estratégica da organização de se tornar líder global em inovação em saúde, enfatizando a excelência, inovação e investimento em tecnologia de ponta para enfrentar os desafios globais de saúde.

“A liderança saudita delineou uma visão clara para o KFSH&RC, estipulada por um decreto real de transição do hospital para uma fundação independente Sui Generis, sem fins lucrativos”, disse Sua Excelência, o Dr. Al Fayyadh.

Ele destacou ainda que essa transformação busca elevar os padrões globais de saúde por meio da maior independência e flexibilidade. Essa mudança permitirá que o KSFH&RC otimize os serviços existentes, busque novas oportunidades e direcione recursos para iniciativas que promovam a saúde e o bem-estar humanos dentro do Reino e no exterior. Em última análise, essa transição confirma a dedicação do KFSH&RC para com a excelência centrada no paciente.

O Dr. Al Fayyadh apontou que o KFSH&RC se vê como líder na maximização do valor dos gastos com saúde, aderindo a práticas baseadas em evidências para garantir ótimos resultados para os pacientes. O hospital busca permanecer na vanguarda da inovação global em saúde, com iniciativas destinadas a aumentar a equidade e o acesso à saúde em todo o mundo. Para conseguir isso, o KFSH&RC continuará a investir em instalações médicas de ponta, equipamentos avançados de diagnóstico, e tecnologias de tratamento de última geração. Com base no progresso existente em áreas como terapia com células CAR T, cirurgias robóticas, transplantes de órgãos e medicina personalizada, a instituição visa alcançar competitividade global. Isso será ainda mais apoiado pela promoção de uma força de trabalho excepcional, pela busca de avanços a nível do Prêmio Nobel e pelo fortalecimento de colaborações internacionais estratégicas.

O Dr. Al Fayyadh participou de um painel de discussão com foco no cenário em evolução do setor de saúde e nos resultados positivos da transformação contínua do KFSH&RC no atendimento ao paciente. Ele também abordou os desafios atuais e antecipou desenvolvimentos futuros no setor de saúde, enfatizando o profundo impacto das inovações do hospital no avanço global da saúde. Além disso, o Dr. Al Fayyadh destacou o papel eficaz das iniciativas transformadoras do hospital no alinhamento com os objetivos do Programa de Transformação do Setor de Saúde e da Saudi Vision 2030.

O KFSH&RC é reconhecido como uma das principais instituições mundiais pelo seu cuidado de saúde especializado, incentivo à inovação, sendo um hub avançado de pesquisa e educação médica avançada. Ele se dedica ao desenvolvimento de tecnologias médicas e aprimoramento dos padrões de cuidados em todo o mundo por meio de parcerias com as principais instituições locais, regionais e internacionais, para oferecer um serviço de classe mundial nos campos clínico, de pesquisa e educacional.

Pelo segundo ano consecutivo, o KFSH&RC manteve seu status de instituição líder no Reino, ocupando o 20º lugar mundial entre os 250 melhores centros médicos acadêmicos do mundo. Também foi reconhecido como a marca de saúde mais valiosa do Reino e do Oriente Médio em 2024, de acordo com a Brand Finance, e foi classificado entre os 250 melhores hospitais do mundo pela Newsweek Magazine.

Sobre o King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre :

O King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre é dos líderes globais de prestação de cuidados de saúde especializados, condução de inovação, e um hubs avançado de pesquisa e educação médica. Por meio de parcerias estratégicas com proeminentes instituições locais, regionais e internacionais, o hospital se dedica ao avanço de tecnologias médicas e elevação dos padrões de cuidado da saúde em todo o mundo.

O hospital conquistou sua posição como marca líder no setor de saúde em todo o Reino e Oriente Médio, marcando seu segundo ano consecutivo como a marca de saúde mais valiosa. Ele ocupa o 9º lugar no Reino e o 28º no Oriente Médio. O hospital se distingue como o único hospital do mundo a ser listado entre as 10 principais marcas do seu país, de acordo com dois relatórios da “Brand Finance” sobre as 50 marcas mais valiosas da Arábia Saudita e as 150 marcas mais valiosas do Oriente Médio em 2024.

Devido aos programas de transformação e à Vision 2030 do Reino, lançados por Sua Alteza Real o Príncipe Herdeiro e pelo Primeiro-Ministro – que Deus o proteja – para aumentar a liderança do Reino no setor global de saúde, o KFSH&RC surgiu como um dos principais Centros Médicos Acadêmicos do Oriente Médio e da África. Ele permaneceu em 20º lugar no mundo pelo segundo ano consecutivo em 2024, de acordo com o “Brand Finance”. Além disso, ele foi classificado entre os melhores hospitais do mundo em 2024 pela revista americana “Newsweek”.

Para mais informações, contate:

Sr. Essam AlZahrani, Dirigente Interino de Assuntos de Mídia, 0555254429

Sr. Abdullah Alown, Editor Sênior de Mídia, 0556294232

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Invest in young people now for long-term benefits – Entrepreneur

Mrs Ibukun Awosika, a Motivational Speaker and an Entrepreneur, has stressed the need to invest in younger people now to ensure a long-term benefit for the Church and nation was necessary and important.

Awosika stated this in Abuja at the Woman to Woman (W2W) Conference organised by the House on the Rock, the Refuge, Church, Abuja on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference with the theme, ‘Planted to Flourish’, is organised by the Church to also mark the 2024 Women’s Day.

Awosika emphasised the importance of shaping young minds early enough to avoid future challenges.

She pointed out that investing in people not only ensures their long-term value but also benefits nations, communities, and the church.

She equally stressed the need to maximise the talent of women as they were strategic assets for societal development.

Dwelling on the theme ‘Planted to Flourish’, the Lead Pastor of the Church, Mr Uche Aigbe highlighted the significance of women in life, even as he emphasised t
heir crucial role as helpmates created by God.

Acknowledging their contributions, the lead pastor urged them to continue fulfilling God’s purpose.

He then expressed gratitude for women, recognizing their efforts in making life fulfilling and vibrant.

He urged women to continue to be what What Gdd has created them to be and fulfil God’s purpose and mandate in the world.

‘God created man and woman, and women have a very important role to play in life. God created a woman as a helpmate to the man, which means women are important,’ he said.

Also speaking, the President of Woman to Woman Ministry of the Church, Abuja, Dr Chichi Aigbe, encouraged women to support their husbands and stay rooted in faith.

She explained the role of women as helpmates to their husbands, urging them to support their spouses through challenges and difficult times.

She highlighted women’s resilience, likening them to palm trees that could find water even in the desert.

Encouraging them to hold onto their faith, she emphasised that
God is the only one who can help them through any challenge in life.

She stressed the importance of staying connected to God and His word, especially in difficult times.

On her part, the Team Lead of GROW, an arm of Woman to Woman Ministry, Doreen Mogaji outlined their efforts to support women-owned small businesses and aid the community.

The initiative, part of House on the Rock church in Abuja, focuses on giving back to the community and engaging church members in charitable activities.

They provide support to small businesses, particularly those owned by women, by offering equipment and seed grants.

Additionally, they engage in community outreach, including feeding programs and clothing donations.

The initiative also offers counselling services to families facing crises, emphasising the importance of building a solid foundation based on scriptural teachings

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Former MP-Alabira Ibrahim enskined as Sakpe-Naa

Ya-Na Abukari has selected and enskinned a former Member of Parliament for Mion, Alabira Ibrahim as the Chief of Sakpe at a colourful ceremony at the Gbewaa Palace.

He was appointed after the promotion of the Chief of Sakpe to Tijo, as the Tijo Naa.

The new Sakpe,-Naa Alabira I is an Evaluation Specialist and the Head of Monitoring and Evaluation at Ghana Agriculture Sector Investment Project (GASIP).

Sakpe- Naa thanked the Ya-Na and the royal court for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to use his experience to work to support the vision of the Ya-Na for a united Dagbon in peace and prosperity.

Sakpe-Naa called on all citizens of Dagbon, home and abroad, to avail themselves to achieve the greater Dagbon agenda to make the Kingdom regain her past glory as the greatest Kingdom in Ghana.

Source: Ghana News Agency

International Help of Missionaries to provide mechanised borehole for Konor-Kofe

International Help of Missionaries (IHM) Inc, a New York-based Foundation has promised to construct a mechanised borehole water for the people of Konor Kofe, to salvage their water problems.

The residents of the farming community in the Agortime -Ziope District of the Volta Region presently share water with cattle.

At a meeting at Kono-Kofe to brief community members on the project approval and roles they should play during its execution, Mr Fred Hagan, the Project Lead Person assured the people that their letter seeking support from IHM for their water challenges had been approved for execution.

Mr Hagan urged the community to own the project by lending their massive support to ensure its early completion within the maximum period of two months.

Mr Semenyo Kuenyehia, an opinion leader of the community, on behalf of the people, pledged their full support for the project.

He said they had suffered for too long in accessing portable water, so they deemed the intervention as a saviour.

The Foundation in Oc
tober 2023 commissioned a similar project at Adzonkor, another farming community in the Agortime -Ziope District.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Female judges key to eradication of negative cultural practices- President

President Akufo-Addo has pointed out the pivotal role that female judges play in eliminating undesirable cultural practices, particularly among women and girls, that impede their development.

He said the experience of female judges places them in a prime position to lend distinct perspectives and strengths to the cause of Justice and equity.

‘Women judges across Africa and the globe bring unique viewpoints and strengths to the judiciary. Their experiences, often mirroring the societal challenges we seek to overcome, equip them uniquely to advocate for justice and fairness.

The President was speaking at the opening of the 18th International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) Conference in Accra on Monday.

The three-day conference aims to capitalize on previous successes and take advantage of the IAWJ’s unique position in bringing together judicial officers from around the world to discuss matters of mutual importance.

it is on the theme ‘Combating Negative Cultural Practices in Contemporary Times – The Ro
le of Women Judges.’

President Akufo-Addo noted that having women at all levels of the judicial system across the continent not only increases respect for the judiciary but also fosters confidence in the justice delivery system.

He said the theme of the conference was a call to every member of the judicial system, particularly women judges, to ‘leverage our collective legal acumen to dismantle barriers to justice.’

The President noted that negative cultural practices were not just an affront to the victims but were ‘a blemish on our collective human conscience.’

‘As judges and upholders of the law, you have the power to redefine norms and set precedents that protect the vulnerable and marginalised.

‘In dealing with issues like gender-based violence, child marriage, widowhood rites and female genital mutilation – practices steeped in deep-rooted cultural norms – your voices and rulings can resonate deeply, driving societal transformation.

‘It is imperative to acknowledge that the fight against these prac
tices is not confined to the courtrooms. Education, awareness, and collaborative governance are critical. We must engage traditional leaders, educators, and communities to recalibrate mindsets and attitudes. It is in our schools, homes, and community gatherings where the foundational beliefs of our next generation are formed,’ he said.

President Akufo-Addo urged female judges to uphold the ideals of fairness, equality, and justice in all their decisions to combat detrimental cultural traditions.

‘Let them (judgements) be a beacon for those in the shadows of fear and oppression. Remember, each decision you make not only affects the individual in your courtroom but also sets a tone for what we, as a society, deem acceptable.

‘As we look towards the future, let us envision a continent where the law does not only punish but also educates and reforms. A future where our daughters will be judged not by their compliance with outdated customs, but by their potential to lead and innovate. In this grand vision, wome
n judges stand not just as enforcers of the law, but also as architects of societal change,’ he charged.

The IAWJ is a non-profit non-governmental organization founded in 1991 whose members are judges from around the world.

It supports and empowers its global network of women judges to advance gender equality, end discriminatory laws, and promote human rights for all.

Source: Ghana News Agency

Mother’s Day: Access to potable water tops challenges mothers face

Some mothers in rural communities in the Wa West District say access to safe and clean water for domestic use in their communities has been a major challenge.

The mothers who expressed their frustrations in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) on Mother’s Day, said the difficulty in accessing potable water did not only affect their economic activities but also their children’s upkeep.

Mother’s Day is celebrated annually to honour mothers and maternal figures in society and to recognise the significance of maternal love.

The GNA sought to find out what the major challenge of mothers in rural communities was in the discharge of their motherly love, not only to their children but also to their husbands.

Madam Martha Lawrence, a resident of Chogsia, a community in the Meteo Electoral Area, told the GNA that women in that community go through an ordeal to get water for their households.

She said they spent much time at the borehole queuing for water, which in turn affected their economic activity as
women in that community were predominately farmers.

At the Tendoma community also in the Wa West District, Madam Gifty Teonzuinyelle, a resident, said the inadequate sources of potable water in the community had negatively impacted her marital life.

‘I cannot give birth again because of the issue of water access. I wake up at dawn, leave my husband in bed and look for water.

I do not have enough time for my husband; I spend all my time searching for water. We are going through a lot in this community because of water,’ she lamented.

The situation was not different in the Welleteon community also in the Wa West District where Madam Baloyir Ba-Inebe, a resident, said there was only one borehole in that community and women had to wake up as early as 0400 hours to queue for water.

She said the situation sometimes resulted in misunderstanding, not only between husbands and their wives at home but also between the women at the borehole.

‘There is always too much pressure on the borehole. As early as 04:00 hou
rs, people will be at the borehole pumping, and they will pump the borehole into the night,’ Madam Ba-Inebe added.

The mothers told the GNA that they were unable to engage in any meaningful economic venture because they spent much of their productive hours searching for water.

Meanwhile, access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene has been recognised by the UN as the most basic human need for improved health and well-being.

Goal 6 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which Ghana was a signatory to, sought to ensure access to water and sanitation for all by 2030.

According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), about 3 per cent of people in rural areas in the Upper West Region relied on unimproved sources of water – dugouts, ponds, lakes, dams, canals, and river/stream.

It meant that for the 3 per cent, accessing safe and clean water for domestic purposes such as cooking and drinking remained a privilege rather than a right.

It was worth notin
g that achieving that Goal, particularly, target 6.1 which states that ‘By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all’, would be a mirage unless the government of Ghana makes considerable progress in improving access to clean and safe water at the rural levels.

Source: Ghana News Agency

A robust human rights protection regime an incentive for investment-Chief Justice?

Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo says the more robust human rights protection within a community, the more attractive it is as an investment destination.

She said the more assertive in efficiency, integrity, and transparency that a justice delivery system was, the more attractive it was as an investment destination for citizens, foreigners, and every vehicle of business creation.

Chief Justice was speaking at the opening of the 18th International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) Africa Regional Conference on the theme: ‘Combating Negative Cultural Practices- The Role of Women Judges.’

She said Judges, therefore, were in prime place to apply the law in a manner that sends a signal of abhorrence of every form of exploitation, including the promotion of human rights and protection of women from harmful cultural and traditional practices.

‘By virtue of the unique position we hold in our society, Judges exert influence that will always be a force for good,’ he added.

The Chief Justice said the nat
ure of the judicial career provided knowledge of the socio-cultural topography of the national environment and the communities in which they work, which was useful raw material for contributing thought to other policymakers on how to combat and eradicate harmful cultural practices.

She said in addition to their various Judiciaries, their voice as a powerful caucus should be strong in the advocacy for the introduction and implementation of policies that promote the rights of women and the vulnerable in society.

‘Our numbers and voice must count for something in shaping the social direction and institutions,’ Chief Justice Torkornoo said.

He said it was noteworthy that steadily, the representation of women on the Ghanaian Bench kept increasing.

Ghana has seen a significant increase in the number of Judges/Magistrates in the Judiciary over the past four years and in 2019, the Judiciary recorded a total of 138 females.

The Chief Justice said by the 2022/2023 Legal Year, this number had appreciated to 218, s
ignifying an increase of approximately 58 per cent within the four years.

She said while there were still more Male Judges/Magistrates than women, this rate of increase was encouraging for gender parity in the coming years.

She said the contribution to the fight against domestic and gender-based violence in Ghana’s

Judiciary led to the establishment of Child-Friendly Gender-Based Violence Courts across the country as a special division of the District Court.

Chief Justice Torkornoo said studies on economic status show that women from families with economic power and women exposed to higher education, were less likely to be subjected to most of these negative cultural practices that persisted on the continent of Africa.

She said many of the named and unnamed cultural practices that affected the health and quality of life of women thrived strongest in poverty and illiteracy.

She urged women Judges to contribute effectively to the need to combat negative cultural practices by keeping in view the intric
ate linkages between all parts of human life.

She said another way in which women Judges could combat harmful cultural practices was the mentoring of women and girls.

She said the Chief Justice’s Mentoring Programme was designed as an educational programme of the Judicial Service for students in Second Cycle Institutions to familiarize themselves with the work of the Judiciary in Ghana.

It serves as a platform for participating students to interact with members of the Bench and the Bar to demystify the legal profession and encourage students to consider future careers in the legal profession.

With the support of the UNFPA, the Programme was expanded in 2016 to include young kayayei who had dropped out of school but still had the ambition of furthering their education.

She said since she assumed Office in June last year, ‘we have further deepened the Mentoring Programme and established Justice Clubs in Senior High Schools, the first two of which I inaugurated a couple of weeks ago.’

The goal is to creat
e a dedicated corps of students in Senior High Schools, who have been mentored and equipped with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities to pass on that knowledge to their colleagues.

It is also to raise the consciousness of young adults in second-cycle institutions regarding the concept of rights, entitlements, and obligations which make for a strong regime in the rule of law.

Source: Ghana News Agency