First-Ever Rehabilitation Nursing Seminar in Africa Held at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana
October 28, 2024
October 23-24, 2024 - In collaboration with the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital Directorate of Nursing, the International Rehabilitation Forum (IRF) successfully hosted Africa's first-ever Rehabilitation Nursing Seminar in Kumasi, Ghana. This groundbreaking 2-day seminar brought together nursing staff from diverse specialties, offering foundational training on Rehabilitation Nursing Principles and Practices tailored specifically for the hospital's nursing team.
The program was developed in partnership with local Kumasi-based nurses Josephine Darkwaah and Sarah Asamoah, alongside U.S. Nurse Practitioner and IRF volunteer Lorillie Soleta, and IRF Faculty Dr. Mary Elizabeth Nelson Biersach. Speakers included four nurses, local healthcare providers, and IRF Africa Fellowship Alumni, Drs. Abena Tannor, Kate Kontor, and Kennedy Korakye.
As the first event of its kind in Africa, the seminar highlighted the critical need for specialized rehabilitation nursing to support holistic, high-quality care for patients on their path to recovery. The Interactive sessions focused on strengthening the critical role of nurses within a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team.
The seminar aligns with the World Health Organization’s 2030 initiative to expand access to rehabilitation services and represents a significant step toward building skilled, locally-based rehabilitation teams in Africa.
This landmark initiative represents a significant step toward advancing rehabilitation nursing in Africa, empowering nurses to drive improved patient outcomes and contribute to building sustainable rehabilitation practices across the continent.
IRF extends its heartfelt gratitude to the nursing staff, hospital leaders, and all partners who made this historic event possible. Together, we are shaping a future where every patient receives compassionate, comprehensive care.