Within weeks of the Ebola hoax dying down, the guys at Health Africa International approached my friends George Weah, Mahamadou Diarra, and I to be part of the initiative in using various forms of communication to promote a Ebola prevention education programme.

In this quote, Michael Essien reflects on his involvement with Health Africa International following the Ebola hoax that gained significant attention. Essien notes that shortly after the hysteria surrounding the hoax began to subside, he and his friends George Weah and Mahamadou Diarra were approached to contribute to an important initiative. This initiative focused on using various forms of communication to promote Ebola prevention education.

Essien emphasizes the importance of education and communication in addressing public health issues, especially in the wake of the fear generated by the Ebola outbreak. The organization recognized the power of celebrities like Essien, Weah, and Diarra to reach a wide audience, and thus enlisted them to help spread vital information about Ebola prevention. This shows how influential figures can use their platform to tackle serious global challenges.

By engaging in the program, Essien and his friends contributed to raising awareness and ensuring that people understood the real risks of Ebola, separating fact from the hoax. Their role was crucial in ensuring that communication about the disease was accurate and helpful, which is particularly important in health crises, where misinformation can spread quickly.

Ultimately, the quote highlights the role of celebrity involvement in global health campaigns and the need for accurate, clear communication during a crisis. Essien's participation, along with his friends, showcases how individuals can use their influence to contribute positively to public health education and prevention efforts in vulnerable communities.