The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has voiced concerns over the slow progress of several hospital projects in Ghana, particularly those in the Ashanti Region.
He has urged for expedited efforts to complete these projects to ensure the health and well-being of the people.
During a meeting with a delegation from the Ministry of Health, led by the sector Minister, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the Asantehene stressed the importance of prioritizing health infrastructure.
He emphasized that although funds may be limited, the government must strive to do its best to ensure that health facilities are completed and operational to serve the needs of the population.
The Asantehene acknowledged recent improvements in the financial sector and recommended that the Ministry of Health collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to secure funding for completing hospital projects across the country, specifically those under the Agenda 111 initiative.
He pointed out that securing the necessary funds and completing these projects on schedule is crucial for enhancing healthcare delivery and ensuring the health and well-being of the people.
Particular concern was expressed over the stalled Sewua Hospital project. The Asantehene noted that despite significant investments in hospital equipment, the facility remains non-operational due to issues such as inadequate power supply and poor road infrastructure.
He warned that if these issues are not addressed promptly, the equipment will become obsolete and wasted.
Highlighting the potential benefits of operationalizing the Sewua Hospital, the Asantehene mentioned that it could alleviate the patient load on the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), aiding the smooth implementation of the ‘Heal the KATH’ project.
He also called for the expedited completion of the KNUST Teaching Hospital and emphasized the importance of ongoing projects at Trede.
In response, Dr. Okoe-Boye praised the Asantehene for his ‘Heal KATH’ initiative, which aims to enhance healthcare delivery. He assured that the government is committed to completing all ongoing health projects in the region.
The Minister also visited KATH to inspect the ongoing construction of the Maternity and Children’s block. To further decongest KATH, Dr. Okoe-Boye suggested that the Ghana Health Service could sign a memorandum of understanding with the Teaching Hospital.
This agreement could include modalities for directing certain care services to facilities like Sewua Hospital, thereby easing the pressure on KATH.