Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo, Ghana’s First Lady, has commissioned a state-of-the-art Community-based Health Planning Services (CHPS) compound in Gboloo Kofi, located in the Akuapem North Constituency of the Eastern Region.
The facility, funded by the First Lady’s Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation (IMPF), is aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and achieving universal health coverage (UHC) in the region.
A boost to healthcare access
The newly inaugurated CHPS compound is equipped with essential facilities, including an outpatient department, labour ward, laboratory, pharmacy, and consulting rooms.
It is expected to serve over 30,000 residents within the sub-district.
Mrs. Akufo-Addo explained that the initiative was part of the Foundation’s mission to address health challenges, particularly for women and children.
“Some few years ago, we decided to invest in CHPS to improve health outcomes, especially for women and children,” she noted. The facility also aims to reduce malaria prevalence and related deaths, aligning with the UHC goal.
Easing pressure on existing health facilities
The First Lady emphasized the compound’s role in alleviating the burden on the three existing health centres in the area, which are overstretched due to the large population they serve.
“The Gboloo Kofi CHPS will ease the pressure on the three centres serving over 30,000 residents, enabling improved care for women and children,” she stated.
Mrs. Akufo-Addo encouraged healthcare staff to maintain the facility and its equipment while urging residents to take full advantage of its services.
Support from community leaders and stakeholders
Sammy Awuku, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the area, lauded the First Lady’s efforts and pledged additional support for the facility.
He promised to ensure round-the-clock security and internet access at the compound to enhance service delivery.
Awuku also announced plans to introduce an award scheme for health workers serving in rural areas like Gboloo Kofi, stating, “With support from our flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, we will continue the good works of President Akufo-Addo to make life more comfortable for Ghanaians.”
Community gratitude
Nene Teye Gboloo III, Odikro of Gboloo Kofi, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Mrs. Akufo-Addo and the Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation for their initiative.
He highlighted the importance of the CHPS compound in advancing healthcare for the community.
The inauguration was attended by traditional rulers, health officials, development partners, and residents, marking a significant milestone in healthcare delivery for the Gboloo Kofi area.
