General News of Saturday, 4 April 2026

Source: www.ghanaweb.com

Gender Minister visits Accra Psychiatric Hospital over Bulemi case

Dr Naa Momo Lartey (L) speaking with the woman who is receiving treatment Dr Naa Momo Lartey (L) speaking with the woman who is receiving treatment

After intervening in a distressing case in Bulemi within the Weija-Gbawe Municipality, where a woman was reported to be preparing meals for her children using unsafe and unhygienic substances, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, conducted a follow-up wellness visit on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

The visit took place at the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, where the family has been receiving medical and psychological care, to monitor progress made and address new concerns.

The visit forms part of the Minister's efforts to ensure that vulnerable individuals and families receive the care, protection, and support they need.

At the hospital, the Minister engaged the woman, observing her improvement under medical and psychological care since her admission. The Minister also spent time with the woman's two sons, interacting with them in a reassuring manner.

The boys showed encouraging signs of improvement, reflecting the care they are receiving.

The Minister also engaged their father, who was present as part of ongoing efforts to ensure a stable and nurturing pathway for the children going forward.

Beyond the immediate family, the Minister also interacted with other patients and shared words of encouragement.

As part of the visit, the Minister presented relief items and personal essentials to support the woman and her two children.

Speaking during the visit, the Director of the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, Dr Kwadzo Marfo Obeng, commended the Minister for her swift response and continued involvement.

He emphasised the importance of early intervention, sustained care, and strong collaboration between health professionals and social services in managing cases effectively.

Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey reiterated the government's commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing care and social protection services.

The Minister also used the opportunity to engage officers of the Social Welfare Unit at the hospital, stressing the need for coordinated social support systems to help affected individuals and families rebuild their lives beyond institutional care.

She further noted that the Ministry is actively seeking ways to enhance social protection systems, including the ongoing reassessment and expansion of the LEAP programme, to more effectively identify and assist vulnerable individuals in institutional settings, such as those at the Accra Psychiatry Hospital.

The emphasis is on ensuring that no one is excluded from essential social interventions due to their circumstances.

Behind the scenes, careful steps are being taken by the Minister to secure a stable and supportive future for the children, including ongoing monitoring, psychosocial support, and plans to facilitate their reintegration into a safe family environment and return to education.