President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the significance of the Agenda 111 initiative, which aims to fortify Ghana’s healthcare infrastructure and enhance the country’s resilience against future pandemics. During a recent thank-you visit to the Upper East Region, the President shared updates on the initiative’s progress, stating that several hospitals under this policy are nearing completion. He expressed confidence that these facilities would bring transformative changes to the healthcare landscape in Ghana. As he looks towards the future, President Akufo-Addo assured the public that some hospitals would be finalized before the end of his term, and others would be left for his successor, thus contributing to the overall improvement of healthcare services nationwide.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly tested Ghana’s healthcare system, which prompted the government to make substantial investments in healthcare to bolster the country’s preparedness for any similar crises. President Akufo-Addo acknowledged that the pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the system, particularly in regions lacking adequate medical facilities. He credited Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for his pivotal role in the inception of Agenda 111, highlighting the moment when the Vice President brought to his attention the alarming fact that over 88 districts in Ghana had no district hospitals. This revelation was alarming and became the catalyst for the ambitious health initiative, aiming to address the glaring deficiencies in public health infrastructure.
The President detailed the objectives of Agenda 111, stating that it is designed to not only construct new facilities but also significantly enhance the country’s readiness for potential future health crises. He mentioned that many of the projects under this initiative are expected to be completed by the end of 2024, offering a renewed promise for improved healthcare access throughout the country. Specifically, in the Upper East Region, eight districts—Bolgatanga East, Builsa South, Tempane, Binduri, Kassena-Nankana West, Nabdam, Garu, and Pusiga—are directly benefiting from this initiative, with various stages of construction already underway.
In addition to advancements in healthcare infrastructure, President Akufo-Addo also addressed developments in road networks within the Upper East Region. He noted a substantial increase in road infrastructure, with a 40 percent rise from 3,755.84 kilometers in 2016 to 5,245 kilometers by the end of 2022. The improvements notably include the restoration of the Bolgatanga-Bawku road, which had deteriorated, where over 83 kilometers of the 117-kilometer stretch has been successfully upgraded. Such infrastructure enhancements are critical for facilitating better access to healthcare facilities, especially in remote areas.
The President took the opportunity to express gratitude to various stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, as well as members of his party, the New Patriotic Party, for their continued support throughout his administration. He acknowledged their pivotal roles in the progress achieved over the past eight years and stressed the importance of collaboration in fostering development. In his address, he urged the residents to support Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming December elections, emphasizing that his vice-presidential experience would be invaluable in building upon the groundwork already laid for sustainable development in Ghana.
In summary, President Akufo-Addo’s discussion of the Agenda 111 initiative underscores a committed effort to reform and strengthen Ghana’s healthcare system, facilitating infrastructural improvements that prepare the nation for future health challenges. The combination of new hospitals, improved road networks, and the involvement of a broad range of stakeholders reflects a holistic approach to national development. As the President calls for continued support for Dr. Bawumia, he envisions a future where sustained progress in health and infrastructure will enhance the lives of all Ghanaians.
