The Coalition of Actors for Public Health Advocacy organized a highly successful float in Kumasi as part of their advocacy activities for the HD4HL (Healthy Diets for Healthy Lives) project. The float, which took place on Wednesday, February 14th, aimed to create awareness and promote the development of food-related fiscal policies in Ghana.
The float, listed as Activity 2.4 in the association’s workplan, was organized by a dedicated three-member Local Organizing Committee (LOC) based in Kumasi. Spearheaded by the Ghana Public Health Association (GPHA), a local organizing committee, consisting of Cynthia Pomaa Asante, Rose Amegashie, and Frank Asamoah, worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth execution of the event.
To enhance publicity and create awareness, the GPHA designed and printed various materials, including banners, flyers, and T-shirts. These materials were distributed during the float to engage the public and convey the key messages of the HD4HL project and the policies. The T-shirts, adorned with the project’s four policies, were worn by the approximately 100 participants who took part in the procession.
The float started from the Cultural Center and passed through prominent locations such as Pampaso, Adum, Central Market, Kejetia, Adehyeman, Kumasi Zoo, Komfo Anokye roundabout, and back to the Cultural Center. During the float, the participants held placards and distributed 1000 flyers to the public, further spreading awareness about the project.
The participants in the float were drawn from various institutions, including students from the Kumasi Nursing and Midwifery Training College, staff of Kwadaso SDA Hospital, staff of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Department of Dietetics, members of the Ghana Public Health Association, and staff of the Ghana Health Service. The presence of three policemen from the Ashanti Regional Police command ensured the security of the event, while the National Ambulance Service was on standby to provide medical care if needed.
The success of the float was further amplified by the coverage it received from several media stations. The Ghana News Agency, Graphic Communications, Oyerepa TV and FM, Media General (TV3, Onua TV, and Akoma FM), and Despite Media (UTV, Peace FM, and Hello FM) all reported on the event, helping to reach a wider audience and generate more awareness for the HD4HL project.
