The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has taken a bold stance against the influx of unbranded, uncertified diapers and sanitary pads into the Ghanaian market.
These substandard products—some of which are refurbished and repackaged without any indication of their country of origin—pose a severe health risk to unsuspecting consumers.
At the forefront of this fight is the CEO of the FDA, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, whose unwavering dedication to public health has been evident across successive governments.
With over 20 years of experience at the FDA, serving under both the NDC and NPP, Dr. Darko has remained resolute in combating criminal activities by unscrupulous importers seeking to profit at the expense of Ghanaian lives.
However, her efforts are being undermined by certain interest groups. My investigations have revealed that some elements within CEPS (Customs Excise and Preventive Service), after seizing these harmful products, turn around and auction them back to the same importers.
These importers—many of whom have close ties to politicians—then flood the market with the very products that were deemed unfit for use. This is not just negligence; it is a deliberate act of endangering public safety.
Despite these obstacles, Dr. Darko remains unwavering in her resolve. She is determined to ensure these dangerous sanitary products are destroyed and that those behind their importation face permanent blacklisting. This is the only way to prevent them from continuing their nefarious activities.
Moreover, the argument that Ghana needs these substandard imports does not hold water. Local manufacturers already have the capacity to meet the country’s demand for quality diapers and sanitary pads.
The FDA and the government must take decisive action to empower local industries while cracking down on these rogue importers who prioritise profit over people’s well-being.
There is no doubt that under Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, the FDA has put public safety first, and she will not relent in her efforts, even as these illegal imports continue to resurface. However, this fight is not hers alone. The public must support the FDA by reporting instances of these harmful products being sold on the market.
It is time for the government to stand firm against vested interests and ensure that those responsible for this illegal trade face the full force of the law. Ghanaian consumers deserve safe, high-quality products, not the health hazards that some greedy importers are trying to force on the market.
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