The Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, has emphasised the need to prioritise men's health, family and workplace harmony as key to national progress.
Speaking at an event at the presidency to mark this year’s International Men’s Day last Thursday, he encouraged men to make exercise a habit so as to stay healthy.
The Chief of Staff also advocated open and respectful conversations to strengthen family bonds.
Mr Debrah stressed the need for mutual respect in the workplace to drive collective success.
He further shared personal life experiences that dovetailed into the theme of the event.
Day
Dubbed, Impactful Conversations, Open Forum on Mens’s Struggles and Prostate Cancer Education, the event was organised by the Office of the President to mark this year’s International Men’s Day.
It was held on the theme: “Healthy Men, Strong Families, Progressive Workplace.”
International Men's Day is a global awareness day celebrated every November 19 to celebrate worldwide the positive value men bring to their families and communities.
The event brought together senior government officials and staff of the presidency, who were all united in honouring the vital role men play in shaping families, institutions and the nation’s collective future.
It was an interactive session and an open for men to share their personal journeys, stories of resilience, vulnerability and silent battles.
In a heartfelt gesture, staff of the presidency presented a citation to the President, expressing their profound appreciation for his tireless efforts in promoting the well-being of men who worked at the Office of the President and the nation at large.
The Chief of Staff received the citation on behalf of the President.
Renew
The Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, in a welcome address, called for renewed national commitment to men’s wellbeing.
She emphasised that men played a vital role in shaping families, workplaces the nation, and that
their health and well-being were crucial to progress.
Ms Bampoe Addo also highlighted the importance of recognising and celebrating men's contributions, prioritising their health and creating a supportive environment for them to thrive.
The Secretary to Cabinet, Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo, in a keynote address, stated that men's health was a critical aspect of national development, and it was essential for men to prioritise their well-being for the benefit of themselves, their families and the nation.
He said societal expectations often led men to suffer in silence, but it was crucial for them to speak openly about their struggles and seek help when needed.
Prof. Danso-Boafo also acknowledged the importance of women's encouragement and partnership in promoting men's health, and urged everyone to work together to create a society with healthier, happier men.
The Chief of Staff at the Office of the Vice-President, Alex Segbefia, urged men to pay attention to their wellness as it was the foundation on which strong families, progressive workplaces and thriving communities were built.
The Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, said society often overlooked struggles men faced, adding that men's mental health and emotional well-being were just as crucial as their physical health, and that societal expectations could sometimes exacerbate their emotional and social burdens.
She said the ministry was committed to supporting the well-being of all individuals, regardless of gender and encouraged men to speak out and seek help when needed.
Other activities
The event also featured a meaningful health educative session on prostrate health.
Dr John Antwi of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital gave the education, which centred on the preventive measures such as avoiding alcohol and smoking.
He further introduced some survivors of prostrate cancer who took turns to share their survival stories.
