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Exclusive breastfeeding saves lives – St. Elizabeth Hospital Medical Officer dispels myths

As the world marks World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to August 7, health experts are warning about the dangers of abandoning exclusive breastfeeding.

Care providers have been urging parents to give their infants nothing but breast milk for the first six months of life, stressing that it is the single most powerful start a child can get.

According to experts, breast milk is a complete food containing every nutrient and fluid babies need during this period; no water, porridge, or other adult food is necessary.

Dr. Phillip Akwafo, Medical Officer at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Hwediem, Ahafo Region, told JoyNews during the World Breastfeeding Week celebration that breastfeeding reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

The Medical Officer pointed to scientific research showing that exclusive breastfeeding boosts a child’s immunity and brain development.

He noted that other well-researched health benefits for infants include protection against chronic diseases later in life, support for healthy gut development, and easier digestion.

For mothers, Dr. Akwafo said the practice lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and aids post-pregnancy recovery.

He warned against introducing solid or adult food too early, saying it can lead to malnutrition, digestive problems, and life-threatening infections.

“An infant’s digestive system is not ready for adult food. Giving such foods too early can damage their health and put them at risk of diarrhoea and stunted growth,” he said.

Feeding infants adult food in the first six months, he added, can cause diarrhoea, choking hazards, food allergies, and stunted growth, among other negative impacts.

Dr. Akwafo also dismissed common misconceptions about breastfeeding, including beliefs that babies need water in hot weather, that thin or malnourished mothers cannot produce enough quality milk, that big babies need adult food early to grow well, and that breastfeeding causes sagging breasts.

The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with safe, appropriate complementary foods up to two years or beyond.

“Exclusive breastfeeding is not a choice between tradition and science. It is life-saving,” Dr. Akwafo emphasised.

In line with this year’s theme, “Closing the Gap: Support for Breastfeeding,” the country needs ongoing education to equip parents, caregivers, and communities with the facts, breaking harmful traditions that jeopardise child health.

Fujifilm and Eranis seek to transform healthcare in Ghana through technology

Japanese technology giant Fujifilm, originally known for its electronics and imaging products, has extended its footprint into Ghana’s healthcare sector through a partnership with Eranis Medical Imaging and Engineering Limited.

At a grand launch held in Accra on Thursday, 7th August, the global team from Fujifilm showcased the company’s journey of innovation and excellence since its establishment in 1934.

Speaking to the media during the event, the Managing Director of Fujifilm MEA, Mr Shin Tagawa, explained that the company’s recent 90th anniversary served as a catalyst to expand its medical services into developing countries, including Ghana.

“We are in Ghana for the medical business with a core mission to make healthcare delivery more flexible and efficient using our cutting-edge technologies,” he said.

He added that Fujifilm’s advanced screening solutions, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), are designed to ease the burden on healthcare systems, particularly in regions facing a shortage of medical professionals.

“With our AI solutions, we can facilitate advanced screening to reduce patient backlogs, especially where access to specialised care is limited,” Mr Tagawa stated.

He noted that Fujifilm’s technology will help medical professionals diagnose patients with greater accuracy and speed. “Using our AI-powered systems, doctors can make faster, more precise diagnoses, significantly reducing human error.”

Mr Tagawa also revealed plans to train Ghanaian healthcare practitioners on how to operate the equipment, ensuring optimal use of the technologies once they are deployed in medical facilities across the country.

Dr Isaac Thompson, Executive Director of Eranis, emphasised the significance of the collaboration. “The partnership between Fujifilm and Eranis is aimed at enhancing Ghana’s healthcare system,” he noted.

He added that Eranis would serve as a conduit between both public and private sectors, facilitating flexible procurement processes for the medical equipment. “We’re also responsible for ensuring proper maintenance of these machines once they are in use.”

Dr Thompson also highlighted the suitability of Fujifilm’s equipment for rural healthcare. “Fujifilm has developed a portable X-ray machine that can be transported on the back of a motorbike to remote areas. These devices are equipped with AI diagnostic capabilities, eliminating the immediate need for radiologists on-site.”

Also speaking to journalists was Dr Innocent Ugwoke, Regional Manager of Fujifilm for West Africa, who pointed out that some of the machines come with rechargeable batteries, making them ideal for underserved communities.

“These devices can diagnose conditions such as tuberculosis and other health challenges even in areas with limited infrastructure,” he said.

According to Dr Ugwoke, Fujifilm’s AI-assisted systems are designed to provide reliable diagnostics even with minimal numbers of radiologists, thus widening access to quality healthcare services across the country.

Representatives from the Ghana Health Service, Ministry of Health, and public and private hospitals at the event lauded the company’s efforts in bridging the gaps in healthcare services and welcomed the idea.

Daily weight loss pill could help patients lose 12% of body weight

Trials of a daily obesity pill have shown it can help patients lose around 12% of their body weight over 72 weeks.

The manufacturer, Eli Lilly, says the drug, which is not yet licensed, could be available next year.

The daily pill, called orforglipron, works by suppressing appetite and making you feel fuller.

Preliminary results of a major trial show those on the highest dose lost an average of 12 kilos (nearly two stone) over 16 months, but about one in 10 stopped taking the pills due to side effects, including nausea and vomiting.

In addition to weight loss, participants also benefited from reductions in cholesterol, blood fats and blood pressure.

Dr Kenneth Custer of Eli Lilly said the company was planning to submit the drug for licensing before the end of the year and preparing for a “global launch to address this urgent public health need”.

So where might this weight loss pill fit in to the blockbuster multi-billion pound market dominated by injectable drugs like Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic?

The pill is much less effective than injectables.

The 12% weight loss achieved by those taking orforglipron compares to 22% weight loss for patients on Mounjaro, given by weekly injection. Both drugs are made by Eli Lilly.

Despite being less effective, there is likely to be a significant market for weight loss pills, as a needle-free means of cutting obesity levels.

Obesity experts hope the oral drug will be far cheaper than current injectables, which would make it available to many more patients.

The full results of the trial will be presented next month at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting and published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Rival manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, also has an oral version of its injectable drug Wegovy, which it has already submitted for approval in the US.

In trials, patients on the highest dose of the Novo Nordisk daily pill lost around 15% of their body weight after 64 weeks.

Breastfeeding boosts IQ, cuts cancer risk – Health practitioner

Mothers must not give in to modern-day pressures and deny their babies breast milk, since doing so can affect the child’s growth and overall wellbeing, a health prac­titioner, Ms Wilhemina Minnow, has mentioned.

“Breast milk is nature’s perfect food, containing all the nutrients a baby needs for healthy growth and development, as well as antibodies that protect against infections and reduce the risk of diseases like diarrhoea, respirato­ry illnesses, asthma and obesity later in life,” she stated.

Speaking in an interview with The Ghanaian Times yesterday to mark this year’s World Breast­feeding Week, celebrated in the first week of August, Ms Minnow said mothers must be encouraged to give their babies only breast milk for the first six months with­out water, formula or solid foods.

“It’s like giving your baby their first vaccine,” she explained, adding that the early milk, colos­trum, is rich in immune-boosting substances that build a strong foundation for the baby’s health.

Ms Minnow further stressed that breast milk also promotes healthy gut bacteria, essential for immunity, and contains fatty acids that help brain development, contributing to higher IQ and ac­ademic performance later in life.

Beyond the child’s wellbeing, she said exclusive breastfeeding benefits the mother too. “It helps the womb return to its normal size after birth, reduces bleeding, lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and even burns calories to support weight loss.”

On the mental side, Ms Min­now noted that breastfeeding releases hormones like oxytocin and prolactin, which help moth­ers bond with their babies and reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

She debunked common myths that some mothers did not produce enough milk, saying that true milk insufficiency is rare. “Most cases are due to infrequent breastfeeding, poor latching, anx­iety, or wrong perceptions. Fre­quent breastfeeding on demand is key to maintaining a healthy milk supply,” she advised.

Touching on the pressure many urban mothers face to switch to formula, Ms Minnow urged women to stand firm and seek support. “No formula can match breast milk. Build a support sys­tem, know your rights, and plan ahead for work,” she urged, call­ing for better workplace policies such as breastfeeding breaks and private spaces.

She advocated national mea­sures, including longer maternity leave, stricter control of formula marketing, community education, and training of health workers to better support breastfeeding mothers.

“Breastfeeding is not just a mother’s job, it’s a public health investment,” she concluded.

Absa Bank commissions Reverse Osmosis Water Plant at Nungua Polyclinic

Absa Bank Ghana Limited has commissioned a Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant and Borehole at the LEKMA Polyclinic in Nungua, Accra.

This initiative forms part of the bank’s Water for Life Project, under the Social Impact Response Pillar of its Force for Good agenda.

Due to the area’s coastal location, groundwater in Nungua tends to be saline, making conventional boreholes unsuitable for drinking and clinical use.

The newly installed reverse osmosis system removes these salts and other impurities, ensuring a steady flow of clean, safe water for the polyclinic and the surrounding community.

The commissioning ceremony, held on August 5, was graced by the Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, Dr Edward Nartey Botchway, with notable attendees including the Krowor Constituency MP, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey; the Municipal Chief Executive, Paul Quaye and other respected opinion leaders from the community.

Dr Mrs Naa Momo Lartey commended the bank for its strategic decision to bring such a vital intervention to the heart of a healthcare facility.

“Water is life, and by choosing to enter Krowor with the gift of water, Absa has entered not just our community, but the heart of Krowor, where life is created and preserved.

This partnership means a lot to us, and today you have shown that our story matters,” she remarked.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Edward Nartey Botchway reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to investing in initiatives that improve lives and serve critical community needs.

“For us at Absa, this borehole is not just a project; it is a promise to continue investing in people and in the communities we serve.

“We believe that water is not a luxury but a right, and we remain committed to being a Force for Good in Ghana,” he said.

On behalf of the Nungua LEKMA Polyclinic, Dr William Frimpong, Medical Superintendent, expressed deep gratitude for the project and emphasised its importance in sustaining healthcare delivery.

“In healthcare delivery, access to a safe, reliable water supply is non-negotiable. This intervention from Absa ensures we have consistent water flow, helps maintain a sterile environment, and saves us the cost of buying water from tankers. It is a blessing to our facility and the patients we serve,” Dr Frimpong noted.

Absa Bank’s Water for Life Project is a strategic response to the pressing need for clean and reliable water in underserved communities.

Through its Force for Good strategy, the bank aims to deliver impactful solutions that uplift lives and empower communities across Ghana.

Ghana Herbal Conference organisers pay courtesy call on Ashanti Regional Minister ahead of Nov. event

The organising committee of the Ghana Herbal Conference has paid a courtesy call on the Ashanti Regional Minister at his office in Kumasi ahead of the Ghana Herbal Conference, 2025.

The visit was to formally congratulate Dr. Frank Amoakohene on his appointment as the Ashanti Regional Minister and to discuss the upcoming Ghana Herbal Conference slated for December 3^rd or 5^th, 2025, at the Prempeh Assembly Hall in Kumasi.

The delegation, led by members of the planning and technical committee of the Ghana Herbal Conference, used the opportunity to introduce themselves and the conference to the Minister.

They also extended an official invitation to the Minister and expressed the hope that the Ministry would support efforts to promote the herbal medicine industry in Ghana.

Dr. Frank Amoakohene, while expressing gratitude for the visit and the congratulatory message, pledged his support for the upcoming event.

He noted that the Ghana Herbal Conference aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting local industries, preserving indigenous knowledge systems, and expanding access to alternative healthcare.

He further emphasised the importance of herbal medicine in Ghana’s public health space and its potential for economic empowerment, especially among rural communities and traditional medicine practitioners.

“The government of Ghana has, in recent years, taken active steps to support the herbal medicine sector. This includes the integration of herbal medicine into selected public hospitals through the Centre for Plant Medicine Research (CPMR), as well as the Food and Drugs Authority’s continued efforts in regulating and registering herbal products to ensure public safety and international competitiveness.

“Additionally, the Health Ministry has been collaborating with traditional medicine practitioners to strengthen research, improve quality control, and develop a national policy framework for traditional and alternative medicine,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.

The Chief Director for Global Media Alliance, Ms. Emma Wenani, expressed her gratitude to the Minister for welcoming the team to his office and accepting the invitation extended to him.

“We are grateful for your willingness to support the Ghana Herbal Conference and for accepting our invitation.

“We look forward to more collaborations to championing indigenous herbal knowledge, promoting safe and effective herbal medical practices, and fostering innovation in the herbal medicine sector,” she mentioned.

The organisers of the Ghana Herbal Conference expressed optimism that the active involvement of government stakeholders, especially regional leadership, would significantly boost participation, stakeholder engagement, and public trust in herbal medicine initiatives.

They further assured the Minister that the November 2025 conference would serve as a strategic platform for investment, policy advocacy, and the celebration of Ghana’s rich herbal heritage.

The Ghana Herbal Conference 2025, under the theme “Harmony in Herbalism: Balancing Tradition & Innovation, is committed to championing indigenous herbal knowledge, promoting safe and effective herbal medical practices, and fostering innovation within the herbal industry.

It is committed to advancing the country’s herbal medicine industry by fostering dialogue, collaboration, and scientific research aimed at promoting development and standardisation.

With a focus on global recognition, the conference envisions positioning Ghana as a leading hub for high-quality, evidence-based herbal medicine and indigenous health systems.

The conference, organised by Global Media Alliance (GMA), will feature plenary sessions, exhibitions, product showcases, stakeholder engagement, and live herbal demonstrations.

NCD Alliance hails MahamaCares; urges safeguards against ‘unhealthy’ industries

The Ghana NCD Alliance, a coalition of civil society organisations and individuals living with non-communicable diseases, has warmly welcomed the recent passage of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, popularly known as ‘MahamaCares’.

In a statement issued today, August 5, the alliance commended the government’s “bold and timely intervention” but also raised critical concerns, calling for a comprehensive framework to limit the involvement of industries whose products contribute to NCDs.

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund Bill was passed by Parliament on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, and subsequently assented into law by President John Dramani Mahama.

The President’s personal donation of his six months’ salary as seed funding was hailed by the alliance as a “testament of the government’s commitment” and a “profound understanding of the urgency of the NCDs crisis”.

“We receive this bold and timely intervention with profound gratitude and renewed hope,” the statement read.

“Transforming from a party campaign manifesto promise to its official launch and the successful passage of the Trust Fund in Parliament… is a testament of the government commitment to reducing the catastrophic out-of-pocket expenses people living with NCDs and families face daily just to access treatment and care.”

The alliance noted that for too long, Ghanaians, especially the poor and vulnerable, have struggled with inadequate access to essential NCD services and limited financial protection.

The Ghana NCD Alliance also praised the appointment of Madam Obuobia Darko-Opoku as the administrator of the Fund, describing her role as a “pivotal responsibility that offers an opportunity to build a robust and sustainable mechanism for NCD care in Ghana.”

They urged her to adopt a multisectoral approach, collaborating with various ministries, agencies, civil society groups, and professional associations.

While expressing gratitude, the alliance raised two critical concerns regarding the new law:

1. Limited Stakeholder Engagement: The alliance noted with concern the “limited stakeholder engagement” that preceded the fund’s passage. Citing the World Health Organization’s (WHO) framework, they stressed that “it is essential that patients, caregivers, civil society, and professional bodies are meaningfully engaged in every step, from policy formulation through to implementation and monitoring.”
2. Risk of Industry Infiltration: The second and most significant concern was the open-ended provision in Clause 3 of the Bill for funding sources. The alliance warned that without “explicit safeguards, the Fund risks infiltration by industries whose products—such as tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverages—are known contributors to NCDs.”

The alliance stressed that allowing contributions from these “unhealthy commodity industries” would “create dangerous public health contradictions, legitimise these industries’ role in national health policy, undermine excise tax policies, and could also erode public trust in the Fund.”

Recommendations for a Sustainable Fund:

To ensure the fund’s sustainability and independence, the Ghana NCD Alliance proposed several recommendations:

• Ring-fencing Excise Taxes: At least 50% of the excise tax revenues on products like tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks should be “ring-fenced to support the Funds.”
• Increased Excise Taxes: The alliance called on the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to increase excise tax rates on these harmful products and to reject any industry lobbying for tax reductions.
• Decentralization: They urged the government to strengthen the decentralization measures in the Act to ensure the fund “reaches those who really require the financial protection and support” in rural and underserved communities.
• Comprehensive Care: The fund, they stated, must guarantee equitable access to NCD diagnostics, treatment, and care, and should integrate “psychosocial support systems and mental health services,” which are often neglected.

The alliance concluded by affirming Ghana’s exemplary leadership in the global response to NCDs, citing its active role in various international forums and its own national policies.

They believe the new Ghana Medical Trust Fund further cements the country’s position as a beacon in Africa and beyond, serving as a statement of Ghana’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3.4, which aims to reduce premature deaths from NCDs by one-third by 2030.

China pushes for enhanced China-Ghana cooperation in healthcare

General Surgeon at LEKMA Hospital in Accra, Chief Physician Dr Yongguang Yang, MD, PhD, has underscored the importance of deeper collaboration between China and Ghana in advancing medical standards, particularly in minimally invasive surgery.

Speaking at the maiden China-Ghana Minimally Invasive Surgery Knowledge Summit, Dr Yang emphasised that medical teams deployed to Ghana are selected from top universities in Guangdong, a region renowned for its economic strength and leadership in medical innovation.

“This mission allows us to introduce advanced Chinese medical concepts and technologies, which are of great significance in improving healthcare delivery in Ghana,” he stated.

He is the Consultant General Surgeon and Captain of the 14th China Medical Team to Ghana, a team of medical professionals who arw in the country to share their knowledge on the topic.

Dr Yang highlighted the benefits of minimally invasive surgical techniques, noting their potential to significantly improve the operational efficiency of Ghana’s healthcare system. He stressed the importance of the Chinese Medical Team’s partnership with Essence, aimed at fostering mutual learning and the exchange of best practices.

“Together with our Ghanaian counterparts, we aim to build a strong bridge for knowledge sharing and the dissemination of advanced medical concepts,” he said.

Dr Yang expressed hope for future medical forums that would strengthen bilateral ties and support Ghana’s healthcare goals.

“Beyond improving Ghana’s medical situation, our continued collaboration also seeks to deepen the friendship between our two countries — a central mission of the Chinese Medical Team,” he concluded.

The summit, held at the University of Ghana on Thursday, 31st July, brought together seasoned experts who exchanged ideas on the latest developments in the field of minimally invasive surgery.

Discussions centred on the use of advanced technologies, including robotics, and research-led approaches to improve surgical practices in both countries.

Medical professionals from China joined the event virtually to share their experiences and insights, complementing in-person presentations from Ghanaian counterparts.

Ghana hosts first China-Ghana minimally invasive surgery innovation and knowledge summit

Ghana has hosted the inaugural China-Ghana Minimally Invasive Surgery Innovation and Knowledge Sharing Summit in Accra, bringing together leading medical professionals from the two countries.

The summit, held at the University of Ghana on Thursday, 31st July, brought together seasoned experts who exchanged ideas on the latest developments in the field of minimally invasive surgery.

Discussions centred on the use of advanced technologies, including robotics, and research-led approaches to improve surgical practices in the two countries.

Some medical professionals from China joined the event virtually to share their experiences and insights, complementing in-person presentations from Ghanaian counterparts and some of the Chinese doctors.

Speaking to JoyNews on the sidelines of the event, Consultant General Surgeon and Captain of the 14th China Medical Team to Ghana, Chief Physician Dr Yongguang Yang, MD, PhD, highlighted the importance of the collaboration.

“Each year, medical teams dispatched to Ghana are selected from outstanding universities in Guangdong. Guangdong is not only economically advanced but also a leader in medical innovation in China,” he said.

Dr Yang, who is also a Master’s Advisor and Postdoctoral Co-Supervisor at the Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, and General Surgeon at LEKMA Hospital in Accra, added:

“This mission allows us to introduce advanced Chinese medical concepts and technologies. It holds great significance for the enhancement of Ghana’s medical standards. Through our partnership with Essence, we are able to share China’s extensive medical experience.”

Specialising in hepatobiliary, pancreatic, and hernia conditions, Dr Yang noted that the integration of minimally invasive surgery into Ghana’s healthcare system could significantly boost operational efficiency.

“We hope to build a bridge between the Chinese Medical Team and Essence, working collaboratively with Ghanaian medical professionals. Together, we aim to elevate the healthcare landscape and share forward-thinking medical solutions,” he stated.

On the role of technology in medicine, Dr Yang stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between the two nations.

“We look forward to deeper cooperation between China and Ghana, particularly in promoting medical technologies and training healthcare personnel,” he said.

“Our hope is to convene more medical forums in the future through the Chinese Medical Team and other platforms, facilitating greater knowledge exchange and strengthening the longstanding friendship between our countries — a core objective of our medical mission,” he added.

Also speaking at the summit, Dr Nabil Nuamah, General Surgery Consultant and Hepatobiliary Surgeon at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, welcomed the initiative with enthusiasm.

“I’m quite excited about this summit. China partnering with us presents a tremendous opportunity for Ghanaian doctors and trainers involved in non-invasive surgical practices,” he said.

“China is a country with advanced technology and strong human resource capacity. Tapping into their expertise and equipment is invaluable for our progress in this field.” he added.

The summit, themed “Precision, Progress, and Partnership in Minimally Invasive Surgery,” was supported by the Ghana Health Service, China-Ghana Medical Team, HCOWA Association, University of Ghana, LEKMA Hospital, GAMLS, Ghana Association of Medical Herbalists, and other key stakeholders in the healthcare sector.

La General Hospital will be completed before 2028 – MP for La Dade-Kotopon

The long-stalled redevelopment of the La General Hospital is set to be completed “in two years”, well before 2028, the Member of Parliament (MP) for La Dade-Kotopon, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has assured.

The MP affirmed the government’s commitment to finish the project during a site visit today by a JoyNews team, where she provided an update on the progress of the long-awaited healthcare facility.

The La General Hospital, a critical healthcare hub for the community, was demolished in 2020 to make way for a new, modern 164-bed facility.

However, the project has faced significant delays, becoming a source of frustration for residents who have been forced to travel to other hospitals for basic healthcare services.

During the site visit, the MP, who now serves as the Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, explained the bureaucratic processes that have slowed down the project’s progress.

“When there’s a new government, you have to look into documents of the old government to continue whatever projects are supposed to be done or whatever projects are ongoing,” she said, highlighting the administrative transition that followed the change in government.

She revealed that she has been in close contact with the Minister of Health, who has assured her that the necessary “certificates have been raised” and are currently being processed at the Ministry of Finance.

“He has assured me that the certificates are at the Ministry of Finance and it’s been worked on,” she noted.

A key part of the process, she explained, is conducting site visits to “ascertain the fact that the work that they claim they have done, they have really done to that level.”

The MP expressed confidence in the project’s completion, citing the strong working relationship she shares with the Minister of Health.

“I’ve been in touch with the Minister, like I said, to the extent that I even wrote to him to ensure that he will not forget us,” she stated.

When pressed for a timeline for completion, the MP provided a firm and optimistic projection.

“So the work was not [stalled]. When we came into power, work was ongoing. Like I said, they raised certificates and so the certificates are yet to be on it. And so I believe in two years’ time, since we are at about 30% work done so far, yes, so I believe in two years’ time, it should be completed so that we’ll be able to use the health facility and it will not go to 2028, believe you me,” she said.

The MP’s new assurance suggests a renewed push to expedite the construction, which is currently reported to be at around 30% completion.

The La General Hospital project is a vital component of the government’s infrastructure development agenda, particularly in the health sector.

The new facility is designed to include a five-story Outpatient Department, inpatient wards, maternity and neonatal services, a surgical unit with four operating theatres, and a modern accident and emergency department, among other key services.

The project’s completion is expected to significantly ease the burden on other major hospitals in the Greater Accra Region, such as the Ridge Hospital and the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, which have been serving the community in the absence of the La General Hospital.

The MP concluded by referencing the new administration’s commitment to healthcare.

“We have a father who cares. That’s why we are coming up with the Mahama care to ensure that there’ll be healthcare for all citizens of Ghana,” she said, linking the project’s renewed progress to the government’s broader vision for universal healthcare.