‘My Healthy Baker’ initiative brings free health screening to 7,750 bakers across Ghana

Olam Agri and Twentyth Consult have launched a health initiative in Ghana. This program, called “My Healthy Baker,” aims to improve hygiene standards in the bakery industry. It is supported by the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and local Municipal Assemblies.

The campaign is currently active in Accra. It targets over 2,500 bakers and bakery workers. The nationwide goal is to reach 7,750 participants. The program offers free health screenings for Hepatitis B, Hemoglobin levels, Typhoid, Worm infestation, and Breast cancer.

Participants will also receive education on personal hygiene and food safety practices. This ensures bakers meet legal and health standards.

Olam Agri officials stated that many bakery workers have never had a health check. They emphasized that this initiative is part of Olam's broader hygiene agenda. It focuses on educating bakers about hygiene standards across Ghana.

The initiative helps bakers obtain food handling certificates. These certificates are legally required for all food vendors in Ghana. Many bakery workers struggle to get or renew these certificates due to limited awareness.

The campaign began earlier this year in the Western Region, covering towns like Takoradi and Aboadze. It has now moved to Greater Accra and will expand to other regions soon.

Health experts conducting screenings found several cases needing follow-up care related to blood pressure and Hepatitis B. Elizabeth Ofosua Danquah from Abokobi Health Centre stressed the importance of regular health checks for women.

She noted that many women experience high blood pressure due to stress from work demands. She suggested workshops on stress management would be beneficial for them.

Participants learned best hygiene practices such as hand washing, using gloves and aprons, and maintaining clean bakery environments. Many bakers praised the initiative for its educational value.

Glady’s Odonkor from Ashaiman Vaalco flat said it provided valuable insights into their work. Ahmadiya Mamudu from Ashaiman Night Market expressed gratitude for thorough screenings offered by Olam Agri.

As the campaign progresses, Olam Agri and Twentyth Consult aim to enhance public health within the baking community through these programs.