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
2027-2028 Doctor of Public Health Scholarships Open
We are pleased to announce the start of the 2027-2028 Mastercard Foundation graduate scholarship recruitment at the University of Toronto. This doctoral scholarship opportunity is open to recent alumni and graduating students at our Africa Health Collaborative partner universities. These graduate scholarships will be awarded to individuals who have demonstrated academic excellence in associated health-related disciplines […]
Health Innovation as a Pathway to Africa’s Health Sovereignty
Join the next HiAS as Dr. Robert Karanja explores how talent, research, investment, policy, and partnerships can unlock Africa’s potential in digital health, biotechnology, and deep-tech innovation.
Apply for Research Seed Grants from Moi University and the University of Toronto
Apply for the Research Seed Grants by Moi University and the University of Toronto. Eligible researchers can receive up to CAD $5,000 in seed funding to strengthen research capacity, generate new knowledge, and foster long-term institutional collaborations.
Ubuntu Rising: A Youth Leadership Summit for Africa’s Health Future
Ahead of the 18th World Congress on Public Health, Ubuntu Rising will bring together young African health leaders, innovators, and changemakers to co-create a shared agenda for youth leadership, employment, and innovation in health across the continent.
Young Leaders Redefining What Health Work in Africa Means
This International Youth Day, read about how the AHC’s young leaders are challenging traditional ideas and reimagining health work, strengthening health systems, and building the future of healthcare across Africa.
Associate Director, AHC Programs
Apply for this senior leadership role with the Africa Health Collaborative (AHC) to lead regional programs, strengthen partnerships, and advance health leadership, education, and innovation across Africa.
Turning Research into Policies that Improve Health and Wellbeing
Join Dr. Collins Okoyo, Principal Statistician at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), as he shares practical lessons on bridging the gap between research and policy, drawing on over a decade of experience in health data science, epidemiology, and disease modelling.
Addis Ababa University and Moi University Formalize Partnership to Advance Africa’s Health Workforce
Addis Ababa University and Moi University have signed a Memorandum of Agreement under the Africa Health Collaborative, establishing a strategic partnership to strengthen health education, research, innovation, and workforce development. The collaboration will create new opportunities for students, researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs across Africa.
Building Bridges for Safer Births: How Funmi Odushola connects trusted community caregivers with formal healthcare in Nigeria
Safe childbirth often depends on more than access to a health facility—it depends on trust. In Nigeria, Funmi Odushola is helping build bridges between traditional community caregivers and the formal health system to support healthier pregnancies and safer births.
Africa Health Collaborative Annual Convening 2026: Unlocking Africa Through Youth-led Health Innovation
The 2026 Annual Convening will spotlight Africa’s greatest strength—its young people, bringing together young innovators, health leaders, universities, governments, and ecosystem catalysts to explore practical solutions to Africa’s PHC challenges.