This project addresses the critical issue of misinformation and disinformation in public health, particularly in Ghana. It will empower Community Health Workers (CHWs) and NGOs, and by extension young health trainees who are internet savvy, through targeted training, capacity building, awareness and collaboration to identify, counter, and mitigate the spread of health misinformation.
The project will include capacity building, collaboration with stakeholders, community engagement, advocacy for policy and programs strengthening, and independent fact-checking. Measurable outcomes include increased awareness, strengthened collaboration, and improved dissemination of accurate health information. Activities will include a face-to-face workshop in Greater Accra and the Northern Region of Ghana, social media campaign, an outreach program in some selected health training institutions, and advocacy efforts to build a network of fact-checkers and health misinformation ambassadors across Ghana.
This community impact program is partnership with the Christian Health Association of Ghana, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Public Health Nursing School, Korle Bu, DUBAWA, Fact-Check Ghana, Ghanahealthnest.com.
Funding is provided by the U.S Department of state’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs with Meridian International Center as Implementing Partner.
About the project lead – Kelvin Odonkor
Kelvin Odonkor has worked as a trained mental health nurse for more than a decade and half and is deeply invested in public health interventions and effective health communication. He has been at the frontlines of public health crises in West Africa, notably during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks. Kelvin utilizes innovative media platforms to inform and empower individuals, particularly during health crises, enabling them to make informed decisions. His primary focus lies in crafting compelling and impactful content and strategies for health communication, bridging the divide between healthcare providers and the public.
Currently Kelvin works at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. He has served in different roles with some health and develomental agencies with the recent being Communications Officer at the Christian Health Association of Ghana COVID-19 project, where he curated communications material, disseminating it to media, partners, and donors. Kelvin spearheaded online communications, maintaining the organization’s website and social media platforms, and produced quarterly newsletters. Kelvin occasionally conducts workshops and training on content creation and strategy for health brands. He is the founder and lead of Ghana Health Nest, a premier health news and information outlet in Ghana.
IVLP Exchange Experience
Kelvin was nominated by the US Embassy in Ghana to participate in the IVLP Project Global Public Health Challenges 2023, organized by the U.S. Department of State and Meridian International Center, in partnership with Global Santa Fe, Global Ties Alabama, Global Ties Iowa, Global Ties Kalamazoo, World Affairs Council – Seattle, and World Partnerships, Inc. Kelvin’s exchange experience led to the development of his project. Kelvin is a proud recipient of the 2024 IVLP impact Award.
IVLP Overview
The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program. Since its inception in 1940, the IVLP has brought thousands of current and emerging leaders from around the world to the United States to engage in professional exchanges and foster cross-cultural understanding.
The IVLP is strictly by nomination by the US Embassy.
The IVLP Impact Award was introduced to support alumni of the program in implementing innovative projects that address key challenges within their home countries. The program encourages local and global collaboration to promote peace, security, and prosperity.
