The Minister for Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, has announced that the construction of the Weija Children’s Hospital has reached 60% completion, while 19% of work has been completed on the La General Hospital.
Development of healthcare infrastructure
Speaking at a press briefing organized by the Ministry of Information, Dr. Okoe Boye highlighted these achievements as part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance healthcare infrastructure across the country.
Relieving pressure on Accra’s only Children’s Hospital
The Weija Children’s Hospital is intended to alleviate pressure on the Princess Marie Louise Hospital, which is currently the only operational children’s hospital in Accra. The Minister expressed optimism that by the end of the year, the Princess Marie Louise Hospital would relocate to the new Weija facility.
“We are working with speed to make sure that before the end of this year, Princess Marie Louis relocates to the new Weija Municipal Children’s Hospital,” he said.
Focus on pediatric care
The 120-bed Weija Children’s Hospital is set to modernize pediatric care in the Greater Accra Region.
While some have suggested it be used for adult patients, Dr. Okoe Boye made it clear that the hospital will primarily focus on pediatric care.
“Some of the health workers in Greater Accra wanted it to be a hospital for everybody. We are not going to agree. It’s for children, and it will remain for children,” he confirmed.
Overcoming challenges to continue projects
Dr. Okoe Boye acknowledged the difficulties posed by the global financial crisis and Ghana’s domestic debt exchange program but remained confident in the government’s ability to complete the healthcare projects.
“For those who have passed, we can’t bring them back. But for projects that have stalled, we can reactivate them,” he stated.
Commitment to improving healthcare access
Despite the challenges, the government remains committed to pushing forward with healthcare infrastructure development.
The progress at both La General Hospital and Weija Children’s Hospital underscores efforts to improve healthcare access and build a resilient health system for all Ghanaians.
