Sunyani: Mr Alfred Kwabena Amoah, the Bono Regional Commander of the National Ambulance Service (NAS), has made an appeal for new vans to improve the operational efficiency of emergency responses. He highlighted that the region currently possesses 14 vans, but five are out of service due to engine issues. Additionally, Mr Amoah emphasized the need for a permanent regional office to better support their operations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Amoah, in an interview, urged the government and private organizations to provide assistance. The region employs 247 personnel, with 62 stationed at the regional office in Sunyani. The service currently operates from three offices that serve as both the regional and Sunyani Municipal Offices, as well as a Dispatch Centre.
Mr Amoah revealed that the command has secured an acre of land and is seeking help to construct a suitable regional office. He stated, "A regional office and new vans will position the NAS well to attend to emergency situations effectively." The existing vans, acquired in 2020, impose high maintenance costs due to their age and the demands of the job.
He noted, "Our vans have a lifespan of only five years because of the nature of our job, and we need public support." The Berekum East, Dormaa Central, Sunyani Municipalities, and Tain District have been identified as areas in need of new vans. Mr Amoah also mentioned that the service frequently deals with life-threatening situations such as accidents and cardiac attacks, and the current challenges hinder timely service delivery.
