The initiative, which is a result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between World Vision Ghana and Unilever Ghana’s Pepsodent brand, seeks to improve oral hygiene among children while tackling the persistent burden of oral diseases in the country.

Global statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO) show that oral diseases affect about 3.5 billion people, nearly 45 per cent of the world’s population.

In Ghana, recent studies indicate that even districts with more dental personnel continue to record high levels of gum disease, tooth loss and poor oral hygiene, underscoring the need for stronger preventive measures.

Therefore, the nationwide campaign will focus on early education and community-level interventions to address these gaps. It will feature a series of school and community-based activities, including oral health day celebrations, “brush twice daily” campaigns to reinforce good brushing habits and outreach programmes offering free oral screenings and preventive education.

It also aims to indirectly support over 30,000 community members, including 2,000 families in both northern and southern Ghana.

Under the agreement, World Vision Ghana will spearhead community engagement and behaviour change initiatives, leveraging its grassroots presence and experience in child-focused development programmes. Unilever Ghana, through its Pepsodent portfolio, will provide technical expertise and product support to ensure the campaign’s success.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the National Director of World Vision Ghana, Tinah Mukundah, said the partnership marked a significant step in promoting oral and dental hygiene among children and their families, especially young girls.

“It holds great promise for improving oral and dental hygiene among children and their families. Together, we’re building healthier futures for Ghana’s next generation,” she said.

The partners expressed confidence that the initiative would help instil lifelong oral hygiene habits in children while strengthening public awareness of the importance of preventive dental care.

They added that by scaling up education and providing free screenings, the campaign would contribute to reducing infections and helping children begin life with healthier smiles and brighter futures.