Farmers often put their work before their health due to the physically demanding nature of their profession. This neglect can result in undiagnosed health issues, putting their well-being at risk. To address this, the Ghana Nurses Association of Dallas-Fort Worth (GNA-DFW) took a crucial step by offering health screenings to over 150 farmers under the “Happy Tomato Project” at Yapei in the Central Gonja district. This initiative was facilitated by Agromite Limited, with support from the National Service Scheme and Mastercard Foundation.
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The Happy Tomato Project: A Boost for Agriculture
The “Happy Tomato Project,” spearheaded by Agromite Limited, is an ambitious effort to cultivate 200 acres of tomatoes. The goal is to enhance local production and reduce the reliance on tomato imports from neighbouring countries. This project stands as a cornerstone for agriculture in the region. It aligns perfectly with the GNA-DFW’s health outreach program.
Health Screening and Community Education
At Yapei, 14 nurses from the Ghana Nurses Association, led by their President, arrived in Tamale to conduct health screenings and offer valuable health education. The screenings included tests for hypertension, diabetes, and blood pressure, while also emphasising the importance of hydration, a balanced diet, and regular health check-ups.
Mrs. Joana Asafo-Adjei, the Family Health Practitioner in Dallas and Founder of the Ghana Nurses Association, explained that the visit was a result of a request from Agromite Limited to provide medical services for the farmers. She emphasised the benefits of regular health check-ups, particularly after the age of 30, even for individuals without apparent medical issues.
“Regular health checks are vital, even if you don’t have any medical problems. After 30, it’s essential to have your health checked at least once a year,” Mrs. Asafo-Adjei advised. “If you’re on medication, it’s important to return to the doctor for check-ups every 3 to 6 months to ensure that no other health issues, like kidney or cardiovascular problems, are developing.”
The Impact of the Outreach
Mrs. Rosemond Anim Somuah, the Director of Human Resources at Agromite Limited, expressed her gratitude to the GNA-DFW group for their unwavering commitment to the farmers. She emphasised the importance of prioritising health, especially in physically demanding professions like farming, which can make it challenging to take regular breaks and rest.
“We are so grateful to them,” she said. “If this can become a regular outreach, it will make a significant difference in the farmers’ lives. Good health is more valuable than wealth. If you are not healthy, how can you work? We aim to sensitise the farmers to prioritise their health and make sure they take care of themselves.”
Encouraging Regular Health Visits
Mrs. Gloria Opoku Darteh, President of the Ghana Nurses Association of Dallas-Fort Worth, emphasised the significance of regular health check-ups. With 83 nurses and two radiology associates in the Association, she urged the public to prioritise their health by visiting the hospital for physical exams, checking blood sugar and blood pressure levels, and consulting a dentist. She also advised men to seek medical help for prostate health, sexual health, and mental well-being.
“Health screenings can help detect underlying health conditions that may otherwise go unnoticed and prevent long-term health issues,” Mrs. Opoku Darteh noted.
Community Donations and Gratitude
In addition to the health screenings, the group donated bags of rice and cooking oils to the farmers, a gesture that was met with deep appreciation. The farmers were grateful for the support and the much-needed medical attention, further cementing the positive impact of this initiative.
Conclusion: A Step Toward a Healthier Future for Yapei Farmers
The collaboration among the Ghana Nurses Association of Dallas-Fort Worth, Agromite Limited, and the local community exemplifies the power of collective effort in enhancing public health. The “Happy Tomato Project” is not only a step towards agricultural improvement but also an initiative that ensures the farmers’ health is given the attention it deserves. Through this outreach, lives are being saved, and health is being prioritised in a community where it is often overlooked.
