Health authorities in Dormaa West have raised the alarm over a 45% increase in anemia cases among pregnant women, pushing the district into the “red zone” and prompting urgent community-based interventions.
The Dormaa West District Assembly and Health Directorate have launched a food demonstration program using locally available ingredients to educate women on preparing nutritious meals that can help combat anemia and promote healthier families.
The initiative brings together women’s groups from different zones to prepare and share affordable, iron-rich dishes made from local foods. The goal is to reduce anemia prevalence, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and encourage sustainable healthy eating habits.
District Health Director Mr. Kwame Owusu-Amponsah Daniel described the situation as alarming, noting that anemia in pregnancy is a major contributor to stillbirths and neonatal deaths in the district.
“Anemia is a silent killer contributing to stillbirths and neonatal deaths. We cannot sit back — we must act now through education, nutrition and community involvement,” he said.
He also highlighted another critical gap: the district hospital currently lacks an incubator, making it difficult to provide adequate care for premature and low-birth-weight babies, many of whom are referred from neighboring areas.
“We are appealing to the public, philanthropists, organisations and corporate bodies to donate an incubator. It would save many lives, especially for vulnerable newborns,” Mr. Daniel added.
One of the participants, Miss Bernice Mbro, urged fellow women to embrace local foods as a practical solution.
“Let us prioritise using what we have around us to fight anemia. It affects our families, our children and our future. Local foods can make a big difference if we use them properly,” she said.
The food demonstration program is part of broader efforts to address preventable maternal and child health challenges through community action, education and improved nutrition awareness.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, calling for sustained support to ensure long-term impact in reducing anemia and strengthening neonatal care in Dormaa West.
