By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, April 14, GNA – The Oyemam Autoimmune Foundation has partnered the Ghana Revenue Authority to promote awareness of autoimmune diseases, particularly lupus.
The initiative formed part of the Foundation’s Lupus Awareness Campaign to highlight challenges faced by persons living with autoimmune conditions, especially women.
Madam Emma Halm, Executive Director of the Foundation, described lupus as an “invisible disease” and a “great imitator,” noting that it predominantly affected women during their most productive years.
“Imagine the potential errors a revenue officer could make due to lupus symptoms… valuable revenue can be lost through genuine errors linked to invisible disabilities,” she said.
Madam Halm said symptoms such as brain fog, memory loss and confusion could affect productivity and decision-making, and noted that stigma and workplace discrimination worsened the condition and reduced morale.
“Advocating for lupus awareness is a matter of social justice and women’s empowerment,” she added.
Madam Halm said early diagnosis and access to quality healthcare were critical to protecting the socio-economic contributions of women.
She expressed appreciation to the GRA Ladies for promoting autoimmune awareness within the public sector and noted that collaboration between institutions and civil society could help create inclusive environments for persons living with chronic conditions.
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to making lupus “visible, known and understood” across the country through sustained advocacy and education.
Madam Amma Randolph, Deputy Commissioner, Human Resource at the Ghana Revenue Authority, described the session as “enlightening and thought-provoking,” and said it had broadened awareness of complex health issues affecting women.
Participants were encouraged to foster empathy, build supportive workplace environments and prioritise staff well-being as part of organisational growth.
The event also highlighted the need to recognise lupus as a public health priority, with emphasis on strengthening advocacy and support systems within workplaces.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
