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Breaking Silence: Ghana Mourns the Passing of Trailblazer Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings

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  The nation is today reflecting on the immense legacy of  Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings , who passed away on Wednesday, October 23, 2025, in Accra at the age of 76. The death of the former First Lady and pioneering politician marks the end of an era defined by her fierce advocacy for women's empowerment and her crucial role in Ghana’s political landscape. A Life of Firsts and Fierce Advocacy Born in Cape Coast on November 17, 1948, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings was a figure of undeniable influence.   Her public life spanned decades, primarily as the wife of the late President Jerry John Rawlings, serving two separate tenures as First Lady of Ghana: first briefly in 1979, and then continuously from 1981 to 2001. Her most enduring legacy is the establishment and leadership of the  31st December Women's Movement (31st DWM)  in 1982.   This grassroots Non-Governmental Organization became a powerful force, focused on mobilizing women across the country to partici...

Pathways for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) to Practise Medicine in Canada

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Quick Summary: International Medical Graduates (IMGs) have multiple routes to practise medicine in Canada, ranging from the CaRMS residency match, to Practice-Ready Assessment (PRA) programmes, to specialist certification pathways for those trained abroad. Doctors from certain advanced jurisdictions may also have streamlined routes. Each option comes with unique requirements and opportunities depending on training background and province. Canada has a growing need for physicians, yet many internationally trained doctors face challenges in joining the workforce. Fortunately, several structured pathways exist to help IMGs transition into medical practice. Here are the main routes available: 1.  The CaRMS Route (Residency Training) CaRMS (Canadian Resident Matching Service) is the most common pathway. IMGs apply for residency positions alongside Canadian medical graduates. Applicants must pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination Part I (MCCQE...

Understanding Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency

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Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency might sound like a complex medical term, but understanding it is crucial, especially for those affected by this condition.  As a medical doctor, my goal is to break down this condition in a way that's easy to grasp, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what it means, how it affects the body, and what you can do if you or someone you know is diagnosed with it.  What is Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD)?  Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme found in all cells, including red blood cells. Enzymes are proteins that help speed up chemical reactions in the body. G6PD plays a vital role in protecting red blood cells from damage. It does this by helping to produce molecules that protect the cells from harmful substances called reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can cause oxidative stress. In simple terms, G6PD acts like a shield for red blood cells, ensuring they function properly and stay intact while t...

The Silent Epidemic: Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease from a Public Health Perspective

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Quick Summary : Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing public health challenge, affecting millions globally. This article delves into the causes, impacts, and strategies for managing and preventing CKD, highlighting its significance in public health.  Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is an often overlooked but critical public health issue affecting millions of people worldwide. As a progressive condition, CKD can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and, if left untreated, can lead to severe health complications, including kidney failure. Understanding CKD from a public health perspective is essential for raising awareness, improving prevention, and managing this silent epidemic.    What is Chronic Kidney Disease?   Chronic Kidney Disease is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. This can result in a dangerous build-up of waste products, leading to various health problems. CKD is classifi...

Supreme Court Sets July 17 for Ruling on Anti-LGBTQI+ Bill interlocutory injunctions

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Quick Summary The Supreme Court has scheduled July 17, 2024, to deliver rulings on lawsuits filed by Broadcast Journalist Richard Dela Sky and Researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi challenging the constitutionality of Ghana's Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Mr. Sky seeks a declaration that the bill breaches constitutional provisions and violates human rights, while Dr. Odoi seeks a restraining order to prevent the bill's transmission to President Akufo-Addo. The Chief Justice announced that separate rulings will be delivered following arguments from both sides. Full Article The Supreme Court of Ghana has set July 17, 2024, as the date to deliver rulings on two lawsuits challenging the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill passed by Parliament. Broadcast Journalist Richard Dela Sky and Researcher Dr. Amanda Odoi are the plaintiffs in these cases, each presenting distinct concerns regarding the bill's legality and implications. Mr. Richard Dela Sky is chal...

Oppong Nkrumah Launches Ghana Hydrological Fund to Combat Flooding Issues

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Quick Summary: Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, inaugurates the Ghana Hydrological Fund during the Built Environment National Conference on Housing and Hydrology (BENCHH) 2024. With an initial allocation of GHS 1.5 million, the fund aims to address Ghana’s perennial flooding challenges by financing critical projects like drainage construction and dredging. The Minister underscores the fund's role in improving water management and calls for collaborative efforts from stakeholders and development partners to ensure its success. Full Article: Ghana has taken a decisive step towards tackling its longstanding housing and flooding challenges with the launch of the Ghana Hydrological Fund during the Built Environment National Conference on Housing and Hydrology (BENCHH) 2024. The three-day conference, held at Labadi Beach Hotel, commenced with an opening address by Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, who emphasized the urgent need for sustainable solut...

Hajia4Reall’s Legal Team Satisfied with Court Verdict, Despite Extended Sentence

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Quick Summary Hajia4Reall's legal team has expressed satisfaction with a U.S. court verdict that sentenced her to one year and one day in prison, following her guilty plea to conspiracy charges involving fraudulent activities. Despite advocating for a shorter sentence, her attorneys appreciate the court's decision, contrasting it with the government's initial request for a much longer incarceration period. Full Article Hajia4Reall, the Ghanaian socialite, has received a one-year and one-day prison sentence from a U.S. court, to the satisfaction of her legal team, Fast Law PLC. The verdict was handed down in the case of U.S. v. Mona Montrage, 22 cr 617 (JPO), on Friday, June 28. Initially, her defense attorneys had sought a three-month sentence, but the court imposed a longer term, aligning closer with their plea than the government's recommendation of 37 to 46 months of imprisonment. In a statement following the sentencing, Fast Law PLC expressed their contentment with ...