Accra: Qatar Charity, an international non-governmental organization, has commissioned a refurbished mosque at the 37 Military Hospital. The ceremony was attended by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu, who served as the Guest of Honour, along with the Commander of the 37 Military Hospital, Brigadier General Prosper Ayibor, and the Director General of Religious Affairs, Brigadier General Kumi-Woode, who commenced the event.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project transformed the mosque into a state-of-the-art religious facility. The renovations include a 600-square-meter mosque with an office and 10 ablution rooms, a 141-square-meter three-classroom Qur'an memorization centre with an office, a 50-square-meter Imam's residence, a mechanized borehole, a 45-square-meter mortuary with a washroom, a 4-square-meter powerhouse, and a 1,700-square-meter stamped concrete compound. Additionally, a large gate for vehicular entry, a smaller pedestrian gate, and a horticultural landscape were added for aesthetic appeal.
Speaking at the event, Brigadier General Prosper Ayibor expressed delight at the commissioning of the facility. He emphasized its significance for military personnel, civilian staff, hospital clients, and visitors. He noted, "It is with great honour that I receive this magnificent edifice as a place of worship for the troops of the 37 Military Hospital, defense personnel, civilian staff, families, and the visiting public."
On behalf of the military high command, Brigadier General Ayibor expressed gratitude to Qatar Charity, One Ummah Ghana, and all other donors for their support and assured them that the facility would be well maintained to serve its intended purpose.
Mr. Hasan Ali Owda, the Country Director of Qatar Charity, expressed his appreciation for the cooperation and dedication that ensured the project's success. He commended the hospital authorities and the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces for their swift response and support, which facilitated the reconstruction of the 37 Military Hospital mosque. "I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who worked tirelessly to make this project possible, including the staff of Qatar Charity present at this occasion. This mosque stands as a symbol of unity and community, and we are honored to be part of this transformation," Mr. Owda remarked.
Mr. Terek Merabi, representing One Ummah Ghana, extended gratitude to all those who contributed to the project's success, highlighting the cooperation from the military command.
Vice Admiral Issah Adam Yaku emphasized the importance of the refurbished mosque as a spiritual sanctuary for military personnel and their families. "This mosque stands as a beacon of faith, unity, and spiritual solace. As a military institution, we recognize that strength is not only measured by the might of our weapons or the strategy of our operations but also by the resilience of our spirits and the faith that binds us together," he stated.
He added, "It gives me great joy that Muslim personnel and their families here will begin their Ramadan fasting in this refurbished mosque, equipped with modern facilities to seek more favor and blessings from Allah."
Former Ambassador to Egypt and retired Chief Imam of the Ghana Armed Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Ummar Sanda Ahmed, expressed satisfaction at the collaboration between Qatar Charity and the military leadership. He stated that the mosque's redesign and expansion would serve not only the hospital community but also the surrounding areas.
The ceremony attracted high-profile military officers and dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the event. The successful refurbishment and handover of the 37 Military Hospital Mosque underscore Qatar Charity's commitment to supporting religious and community development projects, serving as a centre for worship, learning, and spiritual growth for military personnel and the broader community.
