Serene Insurance brings X’mas to Psychiatric Hospital
Story: Eugene Kwasi NYARKO
The Accra Psychiatric Hospital came alive on Wednesday as Serene Insurance Company Limited held its 2nd Annual Service of Nine Lessons and Carols on the hospital’s premises.
The event, organized in collaboration with the hospital staff, patients, and the Northern Accra Diocesan Choir, featured carols, scripture readings, and a festive atmosphere that united everyone in the true spirit of the Christmas season.
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Serene Insurance made a substantial donation of essential items worth GH₵100,000 to the hospital. The donated items are expected to ease the hospital’s financial burdens in providing quality care for its patients, many of whom are indigent and have no external support.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Kwadwo Marfo Obeng, Director of the Accra Psychiatric Hospital, expressed profound gratitude for the consistent support received from Serene Insurance throughout the year. He highlighted the staff’s remarkable sacrifice of contributing 1% of their salaries to sustain quarterly donations, which have immensely benefited the hospital.
“Medication alone is not enough for recovery,” Dr. Marfo Obeng said. “Patients need love and care, and Serene Insurance has provided that. Their donations and their presence today, filled with music and dancing, offer our patients hope and a sense of belonging in a society that often stigmatizes them.”
The CEO of Serene Insurance, Mrs. Mercy Naa Koshie Boampong stressed the importance of compassion, kindness, in addressing mental health issues as part of the company’s CSR drive.
“Music has a powerful healing effect, and this carol service is part of our commitment to transforming lives. Beyond donations, we are fostering connections that can positively impact mental health and reduce stigma.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Mr. Eric Seddy Kutortse, Executive Chairman of the First Sky Group, who underscored the company’s long-term commitment to improving the lives of patients at the facility. “We aim to make this engagement an annual tradition to remind everyone of the importance of mental health and to promote a community of care and support,” he said.
The hospital, which faces significant financial challenges, treats hundreds of patients, many of whom cannot pay for their care. Serene Insurance’s quarterly contributions have provided consistent relief. However, Dr. Marfo Obeng appealed to other corporate entities to emulate Serene Insurance’s model and support the facility.
“The Accra Psychiatric Hospital is central to mental health care in Ghana, yet its infrastructure remains outdated and stigmatizing. If more organizations step in, we can make it a welcoming place for anyone seeking mental health support,” Dr. Marfo Obeng noted. The ceremony ended on a joyful note with performances by the Northern Accra Diocesan Choir and an atmosphere filled with laughter, hope, and goodwill. Both patients and staff left the event with renewed spirits, underscoring the transformative power of kindness and community support.
