President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has disclosed that he has been living with Parkinson’s disease for the past eight years.

He noted that he had earlier indicated at the beginning of the year that he was living with a movement disorder, but has now publicly confirmed that the diagnosis is Parkinson’s disease.

In a Facebook post shared on January 8, Franklin Cudjoe said he has received strong support from medical professionals in Ghana as well as close acquaintances who have helped him access treatment abroad.

“At the beginning of this year, I did mention that I was living with a movement disorder. Well, folks it is Parkinsons. I had been living with it for the past eight years. My doctors in Ghana, neurologists in fact, ( MAnd we have very few of them in Ghana ) have been very supportive.”

“Through the generous support of very close acquaintances, I have also been seeking medical care abroad. Parkinsons has no cure but it won’t kill you. It can only be managed with expensive medication and lifestyle adjustment (diet and physical exercises especially). Many thanks to all who have shown concern.

The CEO noted that he intends to use his experience to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease and continue supporting advocacy and patient support efforts in Ghana.

“I am determined to raise awareness and contunue to support the Parkinsons support group in Ghana.

Once again please avoid prolonged exposure to chemicals and please go for clinical assessment once you notice changes in your physical movements. It may also be hereditary, although research shows that is less than 10%”

Franklin Cudjoe is the founding president IMANI Africa, officially known as the IMANI Centre for Policy and Education, which is an independent, non-profit policy think tank based in Accra.

The organisation was established in 2004 and is known for its policy research, advocacy, and public education initiatives.