In Ghana’s Shama District, the rice fields of Whin Valley hold immense agricultural potential, providing food and livelihoods to the local community and beyond. But beneath this fertile land, a hidden story unfolds.
Three Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the University of Toronto set out to explore how local farming practices and nearby #Galamsey (illegal mining) activities may be impacting soil and community health.
Heavy Risks follows the three researchers; Emmanuella Avornyoh, Emmanuel Opkoku-Mensah and Martin Bartels as they conduct a preliminary quantitative risk assessment (PQRA), measuring heavy metal levels in the soil and laying the groundwork for deeper research on the potential health risks for farmers and residents.
Through stunning landscapes and candid conversations with local farmers, this documentary captures a journey about soil health, sustainability, and the community’s well-being.
Watch Heavy Risk
Background
The three Ghanaian researchers featured in this video are pursuing master’s degrees in public health at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health, with support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
As part of their commitment to driving change in their home countries, the Scholars participate in impactful fieldwork and internships, applying their knowledge to address real-world challenges.
This project is part of the Africa Health Collaborative’s broader initiative, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, to transform healthcare systems across Africa through partnerships.
More News & Events
Skip scroller content
#IWD2026: Give to Gain—The Ripple Effect of Investing in Women Leaders in Global Health
Read about how fellows from the Women in Global Health Leadership Fellowship are leading and strengthening health systems across Africa.
FemSTEM Africa 2026: Kickoff Event & Panel
Join Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) & U of T on Tuesday, March 31 as we kickoff the FemSTEM Africa 2026 event series!
Program Manager, Africa Health Collaborative
Apply for the Program Manager role at the Africa Health Collaborative. Closing date is March 20, 2026.
Apply for the Introduction to Public Policy Summer Course by Ashesi University
This opportunity is open to alumni and graduating students from our Africa Health Collaborative partner universities.
Towards Integrated, Person-Centered Primary Health Care in South Africa
Join policy makers, health implementers, NGOs, civil society actors, and academic leaders to learn from one of South Africa’s foremost health system leaders about building stronger and more responsive primary health care systems.
From Clinics to Communities: Rethinking Maternal and Newborn Health in Africa
Dr. Henry Kilonzo explores evidence-based lessons from Kenya and Ethiopia about redesigning health systems for safe motherhood.
Building Inclusive Health Systems for People in Contact with the Criminal Justice System in Africa
Join this webinar to explore how Africa can build inclusive health systems that protect the dignity, safety, and well‑being of people who come into contact with the criminal justice system.
Dignity, Data, and Disruption in Africa’s Health Systems: A Young Leader’s Reflection
John Nyagaka, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar and AHC Young Leaders Table Chair, reflects on his transformative experience at the 2025 Annual Convening.
What Works: Improving Maternal and Newborn Health in Kenya and Ethiopia
Join this webinar to explore how community-led systems and digital innovations, in partnership with local leaders, are scaling sustainable healthcare impact and delivering life-saving care for mothers and their newborns.
Apply for the AIMS Master’s in Mathematical Epidemiology (MathEpi) Scholarship
Apply for the 2025 AIMS MathEpi Master’s program. Fully funded scholarships for African students in statistics and public health. Deadline: March 15.