The EU has provided GHC 1.6 million in aid to combat the cholera outbreak in Ghana, affecting 36 districts. The funds will support the Ghana Red Cross in critical relief efforts addressing hygiene and sanitation issues. An estimated 150,000 people in high-risk areas will benefit from this intervention, which is part of the larger humanitarian strategy of the EU.
The European Union (EU) has allocated GHC 1.6 million (€100,000) to assist communities in Ghana impacted by a cholera outbreak that started in October 2024. This funding will support the Ghana Red Cross Society (GRCS) in implementing vital interventions such as providing chlorine for water disinfection, handwashing devices, and public health education initiatives.
As of December, the Ghana Health Service reported 4,850 suspected cholera cases and 35 fatalities, despite vaccination efforts. The outbreak is largely attributed to poor hygiene conditions, inadequate sanitation, and exacerbated drainage issues due to heavy rainfall. Relief efforts will focus on especially vulnerable areas including displacement camps and informal settlements.
The EU’s funding is projected to assist approximately 150,000 individuals at high risk of cholera due to limited access to safe water and sanitation resources. The Ghana Red Cross has actively engaged with communities to prevent the further spread of the disease by providing essential sanitation supplies.
This funding is part of a broader humanitarian strategy, contributing to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Notably, the EU has established a €14.5 million agreement with the IFRC to address small-scale disaster emergencies without necessitating an international appeal.
Recognized as a leading provider of humanitarian assistance, the EU operates through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations to support victims of conflict and natural disasters worldwide. Additionally, the EU is investing €40 million to enhance Ghana’s vaccine manufacturing capacity as part of the Global Gateway initiative.
In summary, the EU’s humanitarian funding aims to alleviate the cholera outbreak impact in Ghana, targeting high-risk communities. Through collaboration with the Ghana Red Cross, essential relief measures will be implemented to improve sanitation and public health. This initiative reflects the EU’s commitment to providing extensive humanitarian aid and supporting local healthcare infrastructure development.
Original Source: gna.org.gh
