Sunyani: Mr. Joseph Addae Akwaboa, the Bono Regional Minister, has criticized the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government’s announcement of the elevation of Sunyani Regional Hospital to Teaching Hospital status, labeling it as deceptive. He emphasized that the current state of the hospital does not meet the requirements for such status, but assured that efforts are underway to make the upgrade a reality.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Akwaboa, during a media interaction in Sunyani, clarified that the elevation should have been formalized with an Executive Instrument rather than just a cabinet memo. He mentioned that the government has established a Teaching Hospital Board with institutional representation to facilitate the hospital’s elevation. He also noted that the Council of State has convened, and President John Dramani Mahama is expected to announce the Board soon.
Furthermore, Mr. Akwaboa shared that plans are progressing for the establishment of a Medical School at the University of Energy and Natural Resources, which is anticipated to open by the end of the year. However, he highlighted illegal mining and the activities of Fulani herdsmen as significant challenges in the region. He assured that discussions with key stakeholders, including the national president of the Fulani community, are ongoing to address these issues.
The Minister pointed out that the activities of Fulani nomads have become problematic in areas such as Nsoatre, Namasua, and Seikwa. He called for a collective effort involving chiefs, queens, community leaders, and the media to effectively tackle the challenges posed by illegal mining and cattle grazing.
