The Jubilee House burst into colour and reflection on Thursday, November 20, as the Presidency commemorated the 2025 International Men’s Day with a resounding national call to prioritise men’s health, dignity and emotional well-being.
Held under the theme “Healthy Men, Strong Families, Progressive Workplace,” the event brought together senior government officials and staff from the Office of the President to honour the often-unspoken contributions of Ghanaian men to their families, society, and national development.
Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, set the tone with a heartfelt welcome address, stressing the need for a renewed national focus on the well-being of men.
She urged the country to recognise men’s indispensable roles across homes and workplaces and to create environments that allow them to thrive.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah delivered the ceremony’s central message, calling on men to prioritise their health, strengthen family bonds and promote respect at work.
Blending candour with personal reflections, he reminded the audience that self-care is not optional — even for men burdened with heavy responsibilities.
Secretary to the Cabinet, Professor Kwaku Danso-Boafo, deepened the conversation, describing men’s health as a vital pillar of national development.
He highlighted how societal pressures often push men into silence and called for a cultural shift that encourages openness, support, and early intervention.
He also emphasised the crucial role women play as partners in promoting men’s wellbeing.
Chief of Staff at the Office of the Vice President, Alex Segbefia, urged staff to pay closer attention to their overall wellness, insisting that strong families and thriving communities are built on healthy individuals.
Gender Minister Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey stressed that men’s emotional and mental struggles deserve as much attention as their physical health.
She noted that expectations of toughness often worsen men’s burden and reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to supporting all Ghanaians regardless of gender.
Former Finance Minister, Seth Terkper, offered an inspiring message to young people, reminding them that opportunities rarely arrive with labels.
He encouraged them to stay alert, open-minded, and ready to seize unexpected chances for growth.
The event also featured a health education session on prostate health led by Dr John Antwi, who highlighted preventive lifestyle choices and introduced survivors who shared powerful testimonies of resilience.
An interactive segment followed, with men opening up about personal battles, silent struggles and triumphs — moments that gripped the audience and underscored the event’s purpose of creating safe spaces for healing.
The atmosphere was further lifted by energetic live band performances from the CLOGSAG Band.
In a touching gesture, the staff of the Presidency presented a citation to the President, received on his behalf by the Chief of Staff, in appreciation of his efforts to promote the well-being of men within the Presidency and across the country.
About the Author
