Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Dr Leslie Issah-Adams Zakariah, Medical Director, Greater Accra Regional Hospital, giving his address
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Ghana Health Experts Advocate for Protective Breastfeeding Policies, Patient Safety, and Holistic Wellness

Ghana's healthcare landscape is seeing a renewed push for robust policy frameworks and specialized patient care, as experts across various sectors call for improvements ranging from breastfeeding support to the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). At a recent Lactation Conference in Kumasi, Dr. Isabella Sagoe-Moses, a former Deputy Director of the Family Health Division at the Ghana Health Service, advocated for government policies that specifically protect breastfeeding mothers in workplaces and healthcare facilities. Emphasizing that breastfeeding is a cornerstone of child survival and family wellbeing, she joined other speakers, including Nanahemaa Adjoa Awindor, in calling for multi-sectoral partnerships to create a more supportive environment for new mothers. Parallel to these maternal health efforts, the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge) has commemorated World Patient Safety Day under the theme "Safe Care for Non-Communicable Diseases." Medical Director Dr. Leslie Issah-Adams Zakariah highlighted several hospital initiatives aimed at mitigating clinical risks, including the expansion of the Client Relationship Unit and the enhancement of laboratory management systems. Supporting these institutional goals, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings encouraged healthcare workers to maintain patient-friendly environments and integrate safety practices into their daily routines to ensure high-quality care for those with chronic conditions. Beyond clinical settings, experts are also emphasizing the importance of preventive health and social development. Registered dietitian Efua Desua Nsiah Normanyo, speaking on Citi FM’s Healthy Living Project, provided practical nutritional advice regarding the consumption of tiger nuts. She urged the public to swallow the fiber after chewing rather than discarding the solid part, noting that this fiber is essential for controlling blood sugar and supporting heart health. These nutritional insights complement broader calls for social wellness, such as those from Kobby Kyei of the BoysLivesMatter Foundation, who advocated for intentional sex education for boys to ensure they are properly groomed for responsible manhood. These diverse initiatives highlight a growing consensus among Ghanaian professionals that public well-being requires a combination of institutional reform, social advocacy, and individual lifestyle changes. From the legislative protections sought for lactating mothers to the call for safer NCD care and better dietary habits, the path forward involves strengthening the bond between healthcare providers and the community. As these experts suggest, fostering a healthier nation depends on creating supportive environments that empower every citizen—from infancy through adulthood—to make informed health and lifestyle choices.

St. Anne’s Hospital Mortuary Crisis: Bodies of Deceased Teachers Stranded as Aging Refrigeration Engines Fail
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St. Anne’s Hospital Mortuary Crisis: Bodies of Deceased Teachers Stranded as Aging Refrigeration Engines Fail

The families of two deceased teachers are currently facing a distressing situation at the St. Anne’s Catholic Hospital mortuary following a total breakdown of the facility’s refrigeration system. The bodies of Abu Seidu and Achempong Amafom Makline remain stuck in a state of limbo as the aging engines powering the cooling units have failed, rendering the storage area unusable for new or existing remains. This equipment failure has sparked significant concern among local residents and officials regarding the hospital's capacity to maintain essential services. ""The circumstances surrounding the two deceased men highlight the urgency of the situation. Abu Seidu’s body was deposited at the morgue by the police following his death, which reportedly occurred under circumstances that triggered a law enforcement investigation. Meanwhile, Achempong Amafom Makline was brought to the facility by officials from the Ghana Education Service (GES) after he passed away shortly after reporting an illness. Both men, who dedicated their lives to education in the region, now find their final arrangements stalled by the facility's mechanical failure. ""Technical reports indicate that the mortuary’s refrigeration engines are approximately 13 years old, significantly surpassing their expected reliable service life. This latest failure is not an isolated incident; the engines have reportedly broken down multiple times throughout 2026 alone. These recurring mechanical issues point to a chronic lack of maintenance or a desperate need for a complete replacement of the hospital's cold storage infrastructure. Despite the recurring nature of these faults, a permanent solution has yet to be implemented by the hospital administration. ""As of late September, hospital management has not provided a formal comment or a public timeline for when the repairs will be completed. This lack of communication has increased the anxiety of the bereaved families who are unable to proceed with funeral preparations. The situation at St. Anne’s underscores the critical need for consistent investment in healthcare and mortuary infrastructure, particularly in regional facilities where equipment failure can lead to severe emotional and logistical burdens for the community."

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Jerry John Yenabi Foundation’s Free Anti-Snake Venom Initiative Saves 99 Lives in Oti Region

The Jerry John Yenabi Foundation has reported that its free anti-snake venom initiative has successfully saved the lives of 99 individuals in the Krachi Nchurmuru District of the Oti Region. This intervention marks a significant milestone for the predominantly farming community, where snakebites pose a frequent and often fatal risk to residents. By providing free access to critical medical supplies, the foundation has addressed a long-standing health gap in an area where poverty and remote locations often hindered life-saving treatment. Jerry John Yenabi, CEO of the foundation, highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that before its implementation, limited access to anti-snake venom frequently led to dangerous delays and avoidable deaths. The foundation's commitment extends beyond the provision of medicine to include a robust focus on public education regarding the dangers of snakebites and the necessity of immediate clinical intervention. Yenabi emphasized that early treatment is the most critical factor in surviving a venomous encounter, particularly for farmers who are most vulnerable due to their daily work environment. Health professionals in the district have supported the foundation’s efforts while reinforcing the need for victims to seek professional medical attention rather than relying on unverified traditional remedies. Experts warn that using unproven treatments can exacerbate the victim's condition and waste the precious time needed for clinical stabilization. The foundation’s ongoing support aims to foster a culture of medical responsiveness, ensuring that residents are not only aware of the risks but have the actual means to survive them through modern medicine. Looking forward, the Jerry John Yenabi Foundation remains dedicated to sustaining its anti-snake venom supply and expanding its outreach programs across the region. This initiative serves as a vital model for private-sector involvement in rural healthcare, demonstrating how targeted philanthropic interventions can alleviate the burden on the national health system and directly improve survival rates in underserved agricultural districts.

WHO and NHIA Leaders Move to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery in Upper East and Bono Regions
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WHO and NHIA Leaders Move to Strengthen Healthcare Delivery in Upper East and Bono Regions

International and national health leaders have ramped up regional engagements to address critical gaps in Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure and administration. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has pledged targeted support for the Upper East Region, while the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) is exploring further decentralization through a proposed claims processing center in the Bono Region. These high-level visits underscore a coordinated effort to improve disease surveillance, financial sustainability, and primary healthcare access across the country. During a visit to the Upper East Region, WHO Representative to Ghana, Dr. Fiona Braka, met with Regional Minister Akamugri Donatus Atanga to identify healthcare priorities for vulnerable populations. Given the region's strategic borders with Burkina Faso and Togo, Dr. Braka emphasized the urgent need for enhanced disease surveillance and cross-border health collaboration. This partnership aims to align with national health initiatives, including the push for Free Primary Health Care and universal health coverage. In response, Minister Atanga urged the WHO to consider the region's specific vulnerabilities, specifically calling for an increase in healthcare personnel and the establishment of more training institutions to bolster local services. In the Bono Region, NHIA CEO Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe paid a courtesy call on the Paramount Chief of the Sunyani Traditional Area, Odeefour Ogyeamansan Boahen Korkor II, to discuss the scheme's regional operations. The Sunyanimanhene commended Dr. Bampoe for the timely payment of claims and recent staff promotions, which have improved service morale. To further expedite administrative processes, the Chief recommended the establishment of a dedicated Claims Processing Centre in Sunyani and offered land to facilitate the project. The discussion also touched on the necessity of protecting the integrity of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and improving overall staff welfare. These developments reflect a strategic shift toward localized healthcare solutions that respond to unique regional challenges. Whether addressing cross-border epidemiological risks in the north or streamlining insurance administration in the middle belt, the collaborative approach between global health bodies, state agencies, and traditional authorities is essential. As these initiatives progress, the primary focus remains on ensuring a resilient, accessible, and decentralised health system for all Ghanaians.

Nana Owiredu Wadie I (right), Founder of Kabaka Foundation, and Daasebre Kwaku Boateng III (2nd from right), Omanhene of New Juaben, after unveiling the plaque to officially hand over the facility in Koforidua INSET: The building
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Kabaka Foundation Inaugurates GH¢1.3 Million Mental Health Unit at Eastern Regional Hospital

The Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua has received a significant boost in its capacity to treat psychiatric conditions following the inauguration of a modern, GH¢1.3 million mental health unit. Funded by the Kabaka Foundation, the 35-bed facility, officially named the Nana Owiredu Wadie I Mental Health Unit, was handed over to health authorities to address the growing demand for specialized mental health and substance abuse services in the region. The project represents a major private-sector intervention in a healthcare sector often characterized by infrastructure deficits. The newly commissioned unit is equipped with comprehensive amenities including dedicated wards, consulting rooms, and recreational areas designed to foster a therapeutic environment for patients. The project was spearheaded by Nana Owiredu Wadie I, the Nkosuohene of Kwahu Nkwatia and founder of the Kabaka Foundation, as part of a philanthropic effort to improve healthcare infrastructure. This intervention comes at a critical time when mental health services in the Eastern Region are under significant pressure due to inadequate space and the lack of specialized resources to manage complex cases. Statistical data shared during the opening ceremony underscored a worrying trend in the region’s mental health landscape. Reported cases have surged from 3,200 in 2016 and are projected to reach 6,264 by the end of 2025. Regional health officials noted that this doubling of cases highlights a mounting crisis, exacerbated by a chronic shortage of mental health professionals and sufficient treatment facilities across the country. The new unit is expected to alleviate some of the congestion at the main hospital and provide a more dignified space for patient recovery. The inauguration of the Nana Owiredu Wadie I Mental Health Unit serves as a call to action for further public-private partnerships in Ghana’s health sector. While the Kabaka Foundation’s contribution provides immediate relief for the Koforidua-based hospital, officials emphasized that sustainable improvements in mental health care will require continued investment in training specialized personnel and the broader integration of mental health into primary care. As the facility begins operations, it stands as a model for how traditional leaders and private foundations can support the government's efforts to provide comprehensive healthcare for all citizens.

UGMC Research Symposium: Experts Call for Strategic Investment to Bridge the Gap Between Laboratory Findings and Patient Care
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UGMC Research Symposium: Experts Call for Strategic Investment to Bridge the Gap Between Laboratory Findings and Patient Care

Leading medical researchers have called for a deliberate and sustained shift toward translating scientific discoveries into practical healthcare solutions in Ghana. Speaking at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) Research Symposium, themed "From Bench to Bedside," experts emphasized that while the nation possesses significant scientific talent, a robust framework is required to ensure that laboratory research results in improved outcomes for patients in clinical settings. The symposium served as a platform to advocate for stronger connections between theoretical research and frontline medical practice. Prof. Charles Hayfron-Benjamin, the Director of the Medical and Scientific Research Centre at UGMC, underscored the necessity of establishing a clear pathway from the lab to the clinic. He noted that Ghana's scientific community is highly capable yet requires more integrated systems and stronger partnerships to move interventions beyond the experimental stage. A critical component of this process, according to Hayfron-Benjamin, is the implementation of rigorous testing and clinical trials to validate new treatments before they are integrated into standard medical practice. He urged scientists to focus on research questions with immediate real-world relevance and called for enhanced government and industry support to facilitate these transitions. Adding to the call for systemic reform, Associate Professor Evelyn Yayra Bonney from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research highlighted the urgent need for government-led investment in health research and capacity development. She warned that without reliable funding, Ghana faces a potential "brain drain," where skilled researchers seek opportunities abroad instead of solving local health challenges. Prof. Bonney pointed out that UGMC’s research center is uniquely positioned within a hospital environment, providing researchers with direct access to patients to identify and solve pressing health issues. She emphasized that successful research outcomes at UGMC should serve as blueprints for practical solutions across all health facilities in the country. The symposium concluded with a unified message: the future of Ghanaian healthcare depends on a synergistic relationship between researchers, the government, and private industry. By fostering an inquisitive research culture and providing the necessary financial and infrastructural support, the speakers believe Ghana can transform its research outputs into life-saving medical interventions. This approach not only promises to modernize the national health system but also ensures that the nation's intellectual capital remains focused on solving local priorities and improving patient care nationwide.

Mahama Administration Pledges Infrastructure Boost as Reports Reveal Only Five Regions Have Mammography Services
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Mahama Administration Pledges Infrastructure Boost as Reports Reveal Only Five Regions Have Mammography Services

Ghana's health sector is facing a critical shortage of diagnostic equipment, with only five of the country's 16 regions currently providing mammography services. To address this significant gap, the government has announced a major investment in mammography and radiotherapy machines under the "Mahama Cares" initiative. Deputy Health Minister Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah revealed these plans during the launch of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, noting that a recent assessment by the Ghana Medical Trust Fund found only five mammography machines and two radiotherapy machines operational within the public health system. The scarcity of equipment has forced healthcare providers in many underserved areas to rely primarily on physical breast examinations, which medical experts warn can miss early-stage cancers that are not yet palpable. Dr. Victor Dedjoe, CEO of Sayo’s Medical Imaging and Diagnostics, emphasized that the lack of access in 11 regions makes early detection nearly impossible for many Ghanaian women. The current infrastructure deficit means that patients often have to travel long distances to the few available centers, leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer health outcomes. In response to these challenges, the "Mahama Cares" initiative is being positioned as a comprehensive support system for women's health. Beyond the procurement of hardware, the initiative is designed to fund clinical research into the specific types of breast cancer most prevalent in Ghana, support specialist training, and subsidize treatment costs for those diagnosed. Prof. Dr. Ayensu-Danquah stated that the goal is to improve access to timely cancer care while ensuring that the financial burden on patients is significantly reduced. While government intervention is underway, private sector innovations are also emerging to bridge the immediate gap. Dr. Dedjoe has introduced a mobile mammography van equipped with advanced 3D imaging and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to reach remote and underserved communities. He has called upon corporate entities and philanthropists to support the expansion of such mobile services to augment the national effort. Simultaneously, health officials continue to urge women to perform regular self-examinations and seek medical attention for any unusual changes, as early detection remains the most critical factor in improving survival rates.

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President Mahama Rejects U.S. Health Compact Over Data Sovereignty and Oversight Concerns

President John Mahama has revealed that Ghana’s Cabinet rejected a proposed health compact from the United States designed to fill the funding gap left by the cessation of USAID operations. Speaking at high-profile sessions in New York, including the Council on Foreign Relations and the UN General Assembly in September 2026, the President explained that the proposal was dismissed because it compromised national sovereignty. The compact was part of a broader U.S. transition from direct aid to negotiated agreements, a shift that has seen a significant reduction in total assistance to the country. According to President Mahama, the rejected agreement contained several clauses that the Ghanaian government found unacceptable. Primary among these were demands for access to sensitive national health data and medical records, which the President insisted must remain under sovereign control. Additionally, the compact required Ghana to increase its own financial contributions while U.S. support dwindled, and it lacked adequate oversight mechanisms for imported medicines. Mahama noted that the Cabinet moved swiftly to dismiss the proposal to protect the nation's regulatory authority and the privacy of its citizens. The President used the platform to emphasize a vision of "health sovereignty," urging for the development of a self-sustaining health system less dependent on foreign aid. He advocated for a stronger infrastructure built on local funding and the domestic production of essential medical supplies. Mahama argued that while Ghana remains open to international cooperation, such partnerships must be grounded in equity, transparency, and mutual respect rather than conditionalities that undermine national dignity. This decision marks a significant moment in Ghana's foreign relations, as the country navigates the economic challenges of a post-USAID funding landscape. By comparing Ghana’s stance to other African nations facing similar external pressures, Mahama highlighted the importance of maintaining regulatory independence. Moving forward, the administration intends to pursue health partnerships that prioritize Ghana's long-term self-reliance and the protection of its medical data, signaling a strategic shift toward a more autonomous national health policy.

KNUST, GMTF explore AI partnership to transform healthcare delivery
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KNUST and Ghana Medical Trust Fund Partner to Transform Healthcare Delivery Through Artificial Intelligence

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has entered into high-level discussions with the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) to explore a landmark partnership centered on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and science-driven innovations. Led by the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor David Asamoah, a KNUST delegation met with GMTF officials to outline a collaborative framework aimed at modernizing Ghana's health sector. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and clinical application, ensuring that scientific breakthroughs are translated into practical tools for healthcare providers. Central to this proposed collaboration is the implementation of pilot programs across selected health facilities. These pilots will deploy AI-driven solutions designed to improve diagnostic accuracy, optimize patient outcomes, and provide real-time decision-making support for healthcare professionals. By testing these technologies in real-world settings, KNUST and GMTF aim to create a scalable model for digital health transformation that can be expanded nationwide to enhance the efficiency of medical service delivery. Beyond clinical applications, the partnership also focuses on the internal operational efficiency of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund itself. The delegation proposed utilizing AI to revolutionize GMTF’s administrative functions, particularly in the areas of data management and the delivery of specialized interventions. By integrating advanced data analytics, the GMTF can better track healthcare needs across the country, ensuring that resources and interventions are allocated more effectively to underserved populations. This strategic alliance aligns with the broader national goal of leveraging technology to improve specialized healthcare delivery. As the GMTF continues to seek partnerships with academic institutions, the collaboration with KNUST represents a significant step toward a more technologically resilient health system. Moving forward, both institutions are expected to formalize the agreement, setting the stage for a new era of evidence-based, AI-enhanced medical practice in Ghana.

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Proposes Paradigm Shift in Healthcare Policy After Engagement with Ghana Medical Association
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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia Proposes Paradigm Shift in Healthcare Policy After Engagement with Ghana Medical Association

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer and presidential candidate for the 2028 elections, has called for a fundamental paradigm shift in Ghana’s healthcare policies. Following a series of consultative meetings with the leadership of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the urgency of rethinking how medical services are delivered and managed. He noted that the insights and proposals provided by the GMA are crucial for transforming the health sector to better serve the Ghanaian populace and ensuring the sustainability of the national medical framework. During the high-level engagement, several systemic challenges were highlighted as primary barriers to effective service delivery. These include the critical issue of professional retention—often referred to as 'brain drain'—and the unequal distribution of doctors across the country, which leaves many rural areas underserved. Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the GMA’s concerns regarding remuneration and the overall welfare of medical staff, identifying these as key factors that influence the migration of skilled professionals and the morale of those who remain in the domestic service. The discussions also focused on the necessity of upgrading healthcare infrastructure and enhancing emergency preparedness. Dr. Bawumia argued that policy formulation must move away from rigid, top-down approaches and instead incorporate the direct experiences and innovative ideas of frontline medical professionals. He stressed that a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders is the only way to address the complexities of modern medicine, advocating for a policy environment that rewards excellence and prioritizes patient outcomes. These consultations form a central part of Dr. Bawumia’s broader strategy to engage with professional bodies as he develops a policy platform ahead of the next general election. By aligning with the GMA, he aims to champion a health agenda that addresses both the material needs of practitioners and the structural deficiencies of the health system. As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of healthcare financing and infrastructure development, the call for a shift in policy highlights a growing political focus on making the nation's medical services more equitable and resilient.

Amos Andoh Leads Advocacy for Sickle Cell Education Reform in Ghana’s School Curriculum
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Amos Andoh Leads Advocacy for Sickle Cell Education Reform in Ghana’s School Curriculum

Amos Andoh, the Founder and Executive Director of the Focus on Sickle Cell Foundation (FoSCel), also known as the FUSO Foundation, is leading a national advocacy campaign to integrate structured sickle cell disease (SCD) education into Ghana’s national school curriculum. Speaking at a press conference at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Andoh emphasized that with approximately 15,000 to 18,000 babies born with the condition annually in Ghana, the country must move beyond general awareness toward practical, life-saving knowledge. He argues that early education on genotype compatibility is essential for empowering young people to make informed decisions regarding relationships and parenthood, which could significantly reduce the disease's prevalence in future generations. To facilitate this educational shift, the foundation has submitted specialized materials to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA) and has engaged with various educational bodies. Recognizing the importance of reaching children at an early age, FoSCel developed age-appropriate visual resources, including comic books, to simplify complex genetic concepts. Andoh, who lives with the SC genotype himself, stressed that knowledge of one's status should not be a late-life discovery but a fundamental part of a student's health literacy. By embedding this information into the formal education system, the foundation seeks to provide a sustainable alternative to the fragmented awareness campaigns currently in place. Beyond the classroom, the advocacy push aims to dismantle the deep-seated stigma and misinformation that often surround sickle cell disease. Andoh highlighted that misconceptions contribute to widespread discrimination, noting that many mistakenly believe the condition is contagious or a terminal sentence that precludes a productive life. He urged society, and particularly employers, to provide equal opportunities for individuals living with SCD, asserting that they are capable of making meaningful contributions to the nation. The campaign encourages a shift in perspective, viewing SCD not just as a medical issue but as a national health and social priority that requires a change in collective mindset. While the foundation continues to advocate for policy reforms and better treatment access, it has commended the National Health Insurance Authority for including certain sickle cell treatments under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). However, Andoh maintains that education remains the most effective tool for long-term prevention. He called for a collaborative national response involving both the health and education sectors to ensure that future generations are better equipped to navigate the challenges of the disease. By combining improved healthcare access with robust preventive education, the foundation hopes to create a support system that fosters understanding and improves the quality of life for all affected families.

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang is pictured delivering a speech at a formal event. She is standing behind a lectern featuring the official seal of the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, wearing a purple and gold patterned traditional outfit with her hair in braids.
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Vice-President Opoku-Agyemang Urges Global Investment and Multi-Sectoral Action to Combat Malnutrition at MNF 2026

Vice-President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has called for intensified global cooperation and sustained investment to tackle the persistent challenges of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. Speaking at the opening of the 7th Global Conference of the Micronutrient Forum (MNF 2026) in Accra, the Vice-President emphasized that poor nutrition remains a significant barrier to human development. The four-day event, held under the theme "Nutrition at the Frontiers of a Changing Environment," brought together over 2,200 participants from more than 100 countries to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable nutrition systems. During her address, Professor Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the severe and long-term implications of malnutrition, particularly for children and women. She noted that inadequate nutrition during early childhood leads to irreversible physical and cognitive developmental issues. Despite ongoing interventions, Ghana continues to face specific public health hurdles, including high rates of anemia among women and adolescents, as well as a lack of dietary diversity in many communities. The Vice-President stressed that addressing these gaps is essential for the nation's broader socio-economic growth and the well-being of its future workforce. To combat these issues, the Vice-President advocated for a robust multi-sectoral approach that integrates nutrition into various public service pillars, including health, education, and agriculture. She specifically pointed to the need for improving the nutritional quality of the Ghana School Feeding Programme and ensuring that nutrition services are fully embedded within the national healthcare system. Professor Opoku-Agyemang also called for the development of more resilient food systems and stronger public institutions capable of maintaining nutritional standards amidst a changing global environment. Closing her remarks, the Vice-President emphasized the critical role of financing, urging for increased domestic and international funding to create sustainable nutrition systems. She expressed Ghana's commitment to sharing its experiences and providing leadership for other low- and middle-income countries. The conference, which runs from September 28 to October 1, 2026, serves as a vital platform for scientific knowledge sharing and the development of coordinated strategies to protect the world's most vulnerable populations from the devastating effects of malnutrition.