The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Rotary International Foundation, Mark Daniel Maloney, has reaffirmed the organisation's global mission to foster humanitarian service during his three-day visit to Ghana.

With polio eradication high on Rotary’s agenda, Maloney emphasized that combating the disease remains the top priority for Rotary International and its partners worldwide.

“Polio eradication is the number one priority in our programmes,” he told journalists at a press briefing in Accra on January 20, 2025.

Ghana’s polio-free status since 2015 and Africa’s declaration as free of wild poliovirus in 2020 are significant achievements, but variant cases have been reported, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.

During his tour, Maloney is set to engage with key stakeholders, including the United States Ambassador to Ghana and representatives of the PolioPlus programme. These discussions aim to strengthen collaborative efforts to eliminate polio and address other pressing health challenges.

Maloney’s visit to Ghana is part of a worldwide tour showcasing Rotary’s commitment to addressing critical global issues, including maternal and child health, disease prevention, water and sanitation, and environmental sustainability.

Accompanied by his wife, Gay, Maloney will visit several Rotary-funded projects, including a cleft lip and palate initiative at Ridge Hospital in Accra. This programme exemplifies Rotary’s dedication to creating life-changing impact through partnerships and community-driven solutions.

Over the last five years, the Rotary Foundation has invested $6.3 million in global grant projects across Ghana, funding initiatives in disease prevention, economic development, and water and sanitation. Additionally, a concluded strategic partnership with USAID provided sustainable water and sanitation services to over 80,000 people in Ghana, 171 schools, and 11 healthcare facilities.

“Rotary Clubs in Ghana have partnered with clubs globally to achieve these impactful projects. It’s inspiring to witness the dedication of Rotarians and Rotaractors in driving positive change in their communities,” Maloney added.

Rotary District 9104 Governor Florence Maame Hagan highlighted an ambitious fundraising target of $500 million for the 2024-25 Rotary year to support local projects. As part of this initiative, a raffle offering participants a chance to win a car is being promoted, with tickets priced at GH₵10.

AM/KA

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