Ghana Celebrates Historic Graduation of First Community-Based Doula Cohort by HealthConnect One and Uzuri Birth

Historic Doula Graduation in Ghana

On July 28, 2026, a significant milestone was achieved in maternal health care when HealthConnect One and Uzuri Birth celebrated the graduation of Ghana's first Community-Based Doula training cohort. This landmark event took place in Accra and marked a vibrant step forward in strengthening maternal health care not just in Ghana, but throughout the African diaspora.

The graduation ceremony included 15 graduates, consisting of 13 women and 2 men, who travelled from various parts of the country to partake in this intensive program. Some had to journey up to 12 hours, highlighting their dedication to improving maternal care. These individuals underwent months of rigorous classroom instruction coupled with supervised clinical experiences, resulting in the awarding of certificates of completion to 12 graduates and participation certificates to three who joined the program later on.

This program represents HealthConnect One's first international endeavor in community-based doula training, establishing Uzuri Birth as a certified training partner in Accra. Drawing from nearly 40 years of experience, HealthConnect One's training equips graduates to provide compassionate and culturally sensitive support to women and families throughout the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum periods. It fosters stronger collaborations with local midwifery and birthing centers within the Greater Accra region.

Dr. Twylla Dillion, President and CEO of HealthConnect One, expressed the importance of community involvement in the success of such programs. She emphasized that this work should not be viewed as an import but rather as a means of reconnecting traditions that inherently belong to the community. "It is an inheritance, and each graduate is tasked with carrying this legacy back to their communities. By doing so, we can ensure that respectful, community-owned birth support becomes the norm instead of the exception," Dr. Dillion stated.

With notable partnerships established, such as the collaboration with Ogbojo Polyclinic and VRA Hospital, graduates were given hands-on clinical training that spanned crucial areas including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum support. This diverse training ensures they are well-prepared to address the challenges faced by families during the maternal health journey.

The ceremony also saw the presence of international representatives, including Kitoko Petha from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and David Gibbs from the High Commission of Barbados. Each speaker acknowledged the profound impact of this program not only for Ghana but as a beacon of inspiration for other nations across Africa. Emphasizing the importance of community support in navigating childbirth experiences, Gibbs highlighted how critical it is for each family to have access to nurturing guidance during these significant moments.

Facilitated by Ghanaian-Canadian media personality Ivy Prosper, the event also featured remarks from experienced midwife Mama Harriet Kaufman and a heartfelt speech from valedictorian Vanessa Gyan, representing the graduating cohort. The evening concluded with joyous cultural performances, including traditional drumming and a dance showcase by Lokole Danse, further solidifying the community’s spirit of celebration.

HealthConnect One and Uzuri Birth are committed to continuing this important work, with plans for subsequent cohorts and a pathway for training more doulas in Ghana. By fostering a model where community leads, they aim to ensure that every birth, every family, and every community is supported with respect and care. As their motto states, "Where community leads, life follows."

About HealthConnect One

For nearly four decades, HealthConnect One has been a pioneering force in advocating for community-based doula and breastfeeding peer counseling care. They are dedicated to enhancing birth equity for underserved families in the U.S. and now, internationally.

About Uzuri Birth

Uzuri Birth, led by Bobette Ngiedi Lelo, focuses on improving birth outcomes through personalized maternity care, doula education, and building community engagement in Accra, Ghana. They are at the forefront of Ghana's first Community-Based Doula training initiative in collaboration with HealthConnect One.