Alexander Afriyie. Accra, Ghana – The Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. DaCosta Aboagye, has firmly dismissed allegations published by the Day Break newspaper, which claimed that he has abandoned his post for frequent international travels. The publication, dated Thursday, August 29, suggested that Dr. Aboagye’s absences were hindering the health sector’s ability to make crucial management decisions.
In a detailed response, Dr. Aboagye categorically refuted these claims, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to his duties and the protocols governing his travels. He clarified that all his international engagements are meticulously planned and adhere to the required procedures.
Dr. Aboagye stressed that his travels are not arbitrary but are part of a strategic effort to attract investment into Ghana’s health sector. “As CEO, I cannot just wake up and say that I’m going somewhere; you have to follow due process,” he stated. He highlighted that his presentations and engagements abroad are aimed at drawing international attention and investment to Ghana, particularly focusing on the ‘Preventive Promotive Approach’ that the NHIA is using to combat noncommunicable diseases.
The NHIA boss underscored the importance of his foreign engagements in promoting Ghana’s health sector. “I’m attracting international investment into the country by the presentations I’m doing, so it cannot be right that I have just on my own decided to travel. The good work that we are doing in Ghana has generated international attention, he said.
Dr. Aboagye also pointed out his responsibilities as the chair of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). He explained that his duties extend beyond national boundaries, especially in light of the ongoing monkeypox (mpox) outbreak. “I chair the African CDC Board for Disease Control. Now there is monkeypox, so my work actually transcends borders. There is a monkeypox outbreak, so I cannot abandon my work,” he emphasized.
The Day Break newspaper’s article had claimed that Dr. Aboagye’s frequent absences were impeding the health sector’s ability to execute important management choices. However, Dr. Aboagye’s response highlights that his travels are integral to his role and responsibilities, both as NHIA CEO and as chair of the Africa CDC. His engagements are aimed at fostering international collaboration and investment, which are crucial for the advancement of Ghana’s health sector.
Dr. DaCosta Aboagye’s rebuttal to the Day Break newspaper’s claims underscores his dedication to his role and the strategic importance of his international engagements. His efforts to attract investment and promote Ghana’s health initiatives on the global stage are vital components of his leadership. The NHIA CEO remains committed to his duties, ensuring that his work continues to benefit the health sector and the nation as a whole.
