Zenridders, the group of Ghanaians gearing up to take on the 1,300-kilometre Accra-Tamale-Accra journey on bicycles, have presented some assorted items to the psychiatric department of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital to mark this year’s World Mental Health Day, October 10, 2023.
The group, led by Michael Amankwa, aka Don Milla, who is the brain behind the upcoming bike challenge, presented boxes of bottled water, packets of fruit juice, personalized mugs and massage vouchers to the depart in support of the work they do for mental health.
Indeed, the 10-day bicycle challenge, slated for November 1 – 11, 2023, dubbed “Success In Motion” is in aid of mental health, hence the choice of the psychiatric department of Korle-Bu for the pre-expedition donation.
This year’s World Mental Health Day is under the theme “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right.” It is in line with the theme that Zenriderrs seeks to lend their support and appreciation to people who provide healthcare to people with mental health challenges.
At Korle-Bu, the Head of the Psychiatry Department, Dr. Delali Fiagbe stated that one in every five Ghanaians have some mental health challenge, but the number of mental healthcare providers in the country is woefully inadequate.
It was in the light of the status quo that Dr. Fiagbe observed that gestures such as what Zenriderrs have done and are also preparing to do, go a long way to complement the effort of the few and overburdened mental health workers.
Leader of Zenriderrs, Michael Amankwa lauded the mental health workers for their hard work and assured them that henceforth their immense contribution to ensuring sanity in society will not go unnoticed.
“You make an immeasurable difference in our world. Your selfless service often goes unnoticed, and it’s time to rewrite that narrative. Your dedication and compassion deserve recognition and praise,” he stated.
Don Milla told the health workers that before, during and after the bike challenge, Zenriderrs will organize various forums for identifiable groups with a specific focus on raising awareness about mental health in collaboration with specialists from Korle-Bu and other mental health institutions.
“This challenge represents a powerful symbol of our commitment to promoting mental health as a universal human right, and we are excited to make this journey with the support of mental health community,” he said.
He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the persons and institutions who continue to make contributions towards the bike expedition. He particularly mentioned Orado Basics, led by the Bernice Okyere Baidoo, Ekumfi Juice, represented by Mr. Kow Sam, Joy News, Ghanaweb, Milife Insurance, FBN Ghana, Asaase Radio, GTV, Citi News, Media General, EIB Network, Daily Graphic, and Samuel Nii Narku Dowuona, Founder/Managing Editor of Techfocus24, among others.
Don Milla also extended a special thanks to all members of the Zen Riders Club and The Mental Catalyst Club and other organizations for showing up to lend their support.
See more pictures below:
