The Heal Komfo Anokye Project, aimed at refurbishing the 70-year-old Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, faces a setback due to the project’s inability to clear certain items from the ports.
A consignment of imported tiles intended for the project remains stuck at the Tema Harbour, incurring demurrage fees.
To clear 10 containers of tiles for the project, an amount exceeding GH¢1.7 million in duties must be paid.
Launched by the Asantehene in collaboration with KATH, the Heal Komfo Anokye project seeks to raise $10 million for the renovation of Blocks A, B, C, and D of the hospital.
This initiative aims to revitalize the nearly dilapidated tertiary facility and serve as a commemorative project for the 25th anniversary of the enstoolment of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
In an attempt to minimize renovation costs and maximize funds raised, the hospital has appealed to the government, through the Ministry of Finance, for a duty waiver on materials and equipment designated for the project.
According to Samuel Adu-Boakye, the project’s Chairman, Professor Otchere Addai-Mensah, KATH’s Chief Executive Officer, has written to the Minister of Finance, seeking a waiver through the Chief Director, to facilitate the clearance of all renovation goods from the port.
However, he said for almost two months after the letter was sent, “We are yet to even receive an acknowledgement from the ministry to know that something is being done about the request.”