Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair reaffirms commitment to Polio eradication during Ghana visit
Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair Mark Daniel Maloney has assured that Rotary International remains resolutely committed to eradicating polio in Ghana and across Africa.
Speaking during a press conference in Accra on the first day of his three-day visit on Monday (January 20, 2025), Mr Maloney stated, “Polio eradication is number one priority on our programmes. We’re reluctant to identify what might happen afterwards.”
Although Ghana was declared polio-free in 2015 and the African continent was certified free of wild poliovirus in August 2020, reports of variant cases continue to surface.
During his tour, which ends on January 21, 2025, Mr Maloney will engage with stakeholders, including the United States Ambassador and Polio Plus partners, to strengthen collaborations aimed at eliminating polio. A town hall meeting with Rotarians, community leaders, and stakeholders will be held at the Labadi Beach Hotel to discuss Rotary’s achievements and upcoming projects.
Focus on community development
The visit is also part of Rotary’s broader commitment to humanitarian service. Rotary International supports initiatives in maternal and child health, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, basic education, literacy, peacebuilding, and environmental sustainability.
Mr Maloney, accompanied by his wife, Gay, will tour impactful Rotary-sponsored projects, including the Cleft Lip and Palate initiative at Ridge Hospital in Accra. He will also meet senior government officials to explore partnerships in health, education, and community development.
Rotary Foundation Trustee Ijeoma Pearl Okoro praised the progress made by Rotarians and Rotaractors since Ghana attained district status in 2023, stating, “In less than two years, like joke like joke, there are so many developed gifts.”
Fundraising for future projects
Madam Florence Maame Hagan, Governor of Rotary District 9104, highlighted Rotary Ghana’s ambitious fundraising target of US$500 million for 2024-25 to support district projects. A raffle initiative, with tickets priced at GH₵10, is underway, offering participants the chance to win prizes, including a car.
Rotary in Ghana currently boasts 70 Rotary Clubs and 55 Rotaract Clubs, reflecting the organisation’s growing footprint in the country.
As Mr Maloney’s term as Trustee Chair concludes in June 2025, his visit reinforces Rotary’s enduring commitment to creating positive change. Under the 2024-25 theme, The Magic of Rotary, the organisation aims to inspire its members to make an impact with every project, donation, and new member.