2024 – WORLD POLIO DAY [24TH OCTOBER, 2024]

On 24th October 2024, the Ghana National Polio Plus Committee (GNPPC) united with Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors of Rotary International District 9104, influential media outlets, Ghana Health Service/Expanded Program on Immunization (GHS/EPI), WHO/GPEI, UNICEF, civil society, and corporate sponsors; including First Bank Ghana to mark a memorable World Polio Day in Ghana.

This collaboration reflected a shared, unwavering commitment to eradicate polio in Ghana and worldwide.

Pre-Event Campaign

Events began on 17th October 2024 with a vibrant, week-long social media campaign across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and WhatsApp, aimed at raising awareness on the urgency of polio eradication.

The impactful tagline, “Together, We Will End Polio Now,” was shared in English, French, Hindi, Chinese, and several prominent Ghanaian languages, reaching diverse audiences across the country.

Media Engagement

On the morning of 24th October 2024, GNPPC representatives visited multiple media stations, including TV Africa, TV3, 3FM, and Uniiq FM, to bring attention to ongoing polio eradication efforts. Their discussions highlighted the vital role of Rotary and its partners, inspiring communities and urging collective action.

Championed by our Rotaractors and District PI there were robust and innovative End Polio Now social media campaigns before, during and after World Polio Day.

Also as part of our Advocacy role, we published a one-page full color message in the Daily Graphic on Rotary’s efforts to End Polio Now.

Rotary’s 66th Anniversary in Ghana

In addition to commemorating World Polio Day, 24th October 2024 celebrated 66 remarkable years of Rotary’s service and impact in Ghana, a proud milestone underscoring Rotary’s enduring dedication to making a difference in communities across the country.

End Polio Now Soiree

The highlight of the day was an engaging “End Polio Now Soiree” held at the serene poolside of the Air Force Officers Mess, Burma Camp.

In the evening, Rotarians, Rotaractors, Interactors, distinguished guests, supportive friends, GPEI partners (WHO, UNICEF), GHS/EPI representatives, and the media gathered for an event that was both insightful and celebratory.

Goodwill messages were delivered by RI District 9104 Governor Florence Maame Hagan, representatives from GHS/EPI, WHO/GPEI, and key corporate sponsor, First Bank Ghana.

The GNPPC Chair presented an inspiring progress update, emphasizing the need for continued contributions to the Rotary Foundation’s PolioPlus Fund, vigorous advocacy, participation in Polio Immunization Days, and strengthened government engagement to ultimately end polio in Ghana.

Symbolic and Memorable Moments

In a striking display of unity, attendees dressed in eye-catching red End Polio Now t-shirts joined hands to cut two celebratory cakes honoring both World Polio Day and Rotary’s 66 years of impactful presence in Ghana.

The pinnacle of the evening was a symbolic candlelight moment, creatively adapted to phone torchlights due to strong winds, capturing a powerful and memorable shared commitment to the cause.

With Polio eradication as its top global priority, Rotary continues to forge ahead with passion and dedication. Together, we will End Polio Now!

This year’s World Polio Day was a truly remarkable, engaging, and unforgettable event.