Saltpond: The Mfantseman-Saltpond Development Alliance (MSDA), a community-led development group, has initiated a sustainable water project for the Saltpond Municipal Hospital to address ongoing water challenges at the facility. Persistent water shortages have long plagued the hospital, impacting health care delivery, sanitation, and patient attendance.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Hospital, which serves as the referral center for the Mfantseman Municipality's population of over 125,000, often had to refer patients to other facilities due to water scarcity. At times, relatives of inpatients were required to bring water to the hospital. However, the new solar-powered project promises a permanent and self-sufficient water supply system, improving service delivery.
The project involves drilling underground water sources, installing high-capacity storage tanks, and setting up an electrical pumping and boosting system integrated into the hospital's existing water distribution network. This initiative is part of the Alliance's Saltpond Homecoming Festival, themed 'Rebuilding, reconnecting, rising together.'
Mr. Ernest Egyir De-Graft, President of the Alliance, emphasized the critical role of water in health care and expressed optimism that the project would transform health care delivery in the Municipality. He highlighted the project's significance as a demonstration of community leadership and collaboration.
Mr. Paul Amponsah Agyakwa, the hospital's Administrator, described the project as timely, recalling severe water shortages from October 2024 to March 2025. The hospital spent over GHS4,000 weekly on water, affecting its finances and operations. He expressed hope that the project would resolve these issues and enhance community confidence in the hospital.
Madam Gifty Ankrah, the Mfantseman Municipal Director of Health, also thanked the Alliance, highlighting the project's importance during past cholera outbreaks. She acknowledged the crucial role the project plays in improving public health outcomes.
