Health Minister Kwabena Minta Akandoh has announced the government’s commitment to prioritizing the completion of Agenda 111 healthcare infrastructure projects that have reached more than 70% completion.
This strategic approach aims to deliver tangible healthcare improvements to communities across Ghana while maximizing the return on existing investments.
The announcement comes as the government grapples with the financial realities of completing the ambitious hospital construction initiative launched in 2021.
The Minister of Health has observed that some Agenda 111 hospital projects inaugurated by the erstwhile government are still under construction, emphasising that none of the 111 facilities is completed at the moment.
According to recent assessments, the Agenda 111 projects span varying completion stages. As of May 27, 2024, progress across the Agenda 111 project sites ranged from projects that were just beginning to those that had reached about 82% completion.
The government has categorized these projects into three phases: Category A projects (70% or more complete), Category B projects (50% to 70% completion), and Category C projects (below 50% completion).
The prioritization strategy reflects practical financial considerations. Health Committee of Parliament has revealed that an amount of $1.4 billion would be required to complete all ongoing Agenda 111 projects.
By focusing on projects closest to completion, the government can ensure quicker delivery of healthcare services to communities.
Minister Akandoh’s announcement demonstrates a shift toward pragmatic project management. “For the Agenda 111 initiative, we will prioritise the completion of projects that are more than 80% complete,” he stated. “Our government’s resolve is clear: to leave no community behind in the journey to excellent health infrastructure.”
The Agenda 111 initiative encompasses the construction of 101 district hospitals, seven regional hospitals in newly created regions, and three psychiatric hospitals.
Since its launch, the project has faced various challenges including funding constraints and supply chain issues.
This strategic completion approach signals the government’s intention to deliver functional healthcare infrastructure systematically, ensuring that investments made in advanced-stage projects yield immediate benefits for Ghana’s healthcare system.
The emphasis on completing Category A projects first represents a practical solution to resource allocation challenges while maintaining momentum toward improving healthcare access nationwide.
Story Written By Prince Asante Kwarteng | Kobby Kyei News
