Accra: The Ahafo Ano South-West District Assembly in the Ashanti Region is embarking on significant initiatives to improve healthcare delivery in its most underserved communities. The assembly is focusing on increasing access to quality healthcare services, particularly in remote areas of the district.
According to Ghana News Agency, the assembly is in the process of negotiating the acquisition of a private maternity home located in Bonkwaso. The plan is to upgrade this facility into a comprehensive health centre equipped with a laboratory, a Physician Assistant, qualified nurses, and other essential health workers. This upgrade aims to bolster healthcare services for Bonkwaso and surrounding villages.
Mr. Abubakar Sedik, the District Chief Executive, led a technical team to inspect the facility at Bonkwaso Number one, emphasizing that all necessary logistics for the facility's smooth operation will be provided following its acquisition. He highlighted that the central government mandates each district to construct at least two CHIP compounds annually with their share of the District Assemblies' Common Fund (DACF). The acquisition and upgrade of the Bonkwaso facility will contribute to meeting this requirement, with plans to construct a second facility at Afreseni.
Mr. Sedik also expressed the assembly's commitment to renovating a nurses' quarters attached to the facility for staff use. He urged the community to remain united and cooperate with the assembly to facilitate the provision of more social amenities.
Mr. Michael Kwakye, the District Disease Control Officer, praised the assembly's initiative, stating that it would significantly aid the Health Directorate in executing its responsibilities effectively. He noted that the directorate covers two zones, Abasua and Bonkwaso, which have extensive catchment areas. This often leads to complex referral cases, particularly maternity cases, to Mankranso Government Hospital, which is distant from rural communities.
Mr. Francis Kwaw, Assemblyman for the area, expressed gratitude to the District Chief Executive and the government for addressing the community's needs.
