Accra, 23rd October 2025
As part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month and its 30th anniversary celebrations, the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) organized a Breast Cancer Awareness and Screening Session for staff under the theme “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” reaffirming its commitment to promoting health and wellness in the workplace.
Held in partnership with the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH), the event formed part of the Authority’s broader health initiative to encourage regular medical checkups and the early detection of life-threatening conditions—especially among women. It provided a safe and interactive environment for staff to learn about breast cancer prevention, early warning signs, and healthy lifestyle practices.
In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the GFZA, Dr. Mary Awusi, described the initiative as deeply meaningful, reflecting the Authority’s ongoing dedication to staff well-being. “Health is truly our greatest asset. Without it, we cannot perform effectively or contribute meaningfully to our organisational goals,” she said.
Dr. Awusi, the first female CEO of the Authority, further emphasized that “awareness is more than knowledge; it is the decision to act early and responsibly about one’s health.”
She highlighted global and national statistics showing that breast cancer is now the most common cancer worldwide, stressing that early detection saves lives, with more than 90% of cases treatable when diagnosed early.
The session featured a detailed presentation by Dr. Yaa Akyaa Boateng, Senior Specialist Family Physician at IMaH, who educated participants on the causes and risk factors of breast cancer, including age, genetics, obesity, and certain lifestyle habits.
She debunked common myths about the disease and demonstrated practical self-examination techniques, encouraging monthly self-checks and regular professional screenings, especially for women over 40. Following the presentation, staff benefited from free on-site breast screening conducted by the IMaH medical team.
Participants expressed deep appreciation to management for the initiative, which underscored the Authority’s strong culture of care, prevention, and holistic well-being. The Authority continues to champion initiatives that promote not only productivity but also the overall well-being of its workforce. By fostering awareness and providing access to preventive health services, the Authority reinforced its belief that every story is unique, and every journey matters.