In the heart of Akwapem Ahwerase in Ghana's Eastern Region, something remarkable is happening. Hundreds of residents are receiving comprehensive healthcare services without traveling hours to distant clinics or worrying about costs. This is the work of Telecel Ghana Foundation, whose Connected Health initiative is bridging the gap between underserved communities and essential medical care.

The Foundation's latest Healthfest event in Ahwerase provided approximately 400 residents with free medical screenings for malaria, Hepatitis B, HIV, and cervical cancer, along with vital wellness education. Expectant mothers received special attention with ultrasound scans and consultations, while community members were able to register for and renew their National Health Insurance Scheme memberships on the spot.

For residents like Comfort, a pregnant mother from Ahwerase, the impact was immediate and profound. She had planned to make the journey to Akropong for medical screening but instead received comprehensive care right in her community. "I was able to register my son on the National Health Insurance Scheme and renew mine," she shared. "I have never attended antenatal care before, so I am grateful I came today for an ultrasound scan, pregnancy card, and free medical checks."

Emily Amponsah, Health Director of Akwapem South, expressed deep appreciation for the partnership. "Delivering healthcare at the community level isn't an easy task, and it's helpful to get support from organisations like Telecel to complement the work of the Ghana Health Service," she noted, highlighting how corporate partnerships can amplify public health efforts.

The Ripple Effect

The numbers tell a powerful story of expanding impact. Throughout 2025, the Foundation's Connected Health pillar has touched lives through three major initiatives. Healthfest has reached 3,430 beneficiaries with comprehensive medical screenings. The Rural Ultrasound programme has provided free services to 1,002 pregnant women in remote areas. Most touching of all, the annual Homecoming initiative has settled medical bills for 187 patients who were stranded in hospitals due to unpaid fees, allowing them to return home to their families.

Beyond immediate medical care, the Foundation has facilitated 2,641 National Health Insurance registrations, renewals, and replacements nationwide, ensuring that families have ongoing access to healthcare services. These registrations represent a foundation for long-term health security, not just one-time interventions.

Rita Agyeiwaa Rockson, Head of Foundation, Sustainability and External Communications at Telecel Ghana, emphasized the organization's unwavering commitment to their mission. "Our Connected Health initiatives have always been about taking essential healthcare directly to underserved communities, where it is needed most," she explained. "From preventive screenings to maternal care and NHIS access, our goal has always been to remove barriers to healthcare and ensure that no one is left behind."

With Healthfest and Rural Ultrasound initiatives organized every two months, the Foundation maintains a consistent presence in communities that might otherwise go months or years without access to basic health services. As they celebrate reaching over 7,000 people in the past year, they're already looking ahead to expanding their reach even further, proving that when organizations invest in community health, everyone benefits.