Ghana has successfully integrated radiation technology into its healthcare system to combat infections stemming from improperly sterilised medical equipment. Recognising the limitations of conventional sterilisation methods, particularly for plastic-based items, Ghana established the Radiation Technology Centre with support from the IAEA. This initiative leverages gamma radiation to effectively eliminate microorganisms, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses, ensuring the safety and hygienic quality of medical supplies.
The gamma irradiation process offers several advantages. It is a clean and efficient method that leaves no harmful residue and provides uniform penetration, even through packaged products. This allows sterilised items to be used immediately, without the need for quarantine. The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) now provides crucial irradiation services to hospitals and companies, sterilising a wide range of items, from single-use equipment and surgical clothing to tissue grafts and pharmaceutical products.
Beyond its national impact, the GAEC’s gamma irradiation facility extends its services and training to neighbouring West African countries, fostering regional cooperation and dispelling misconceptions surrounding nuclear technology. This initiative, supported by the IAEA since 1970, has not only enhanced national technical capabilities but has also significantly improved healthcare outcomes for patients across Ghana. By ensuring the availability of safely sterilised medical items, radiation technology has become a cornerstone of Ghana’s efforts to protect its citizens from avoidable sicknesses and promote a healthier future.