No regional hospital yet for North East, minister admits amid maternal mortality concerns

The North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Atia, acknowledges the lack of a regional hospital in his area, admitting it is a significant hurdle to providing top-notch healthcare. This issue arose during a recent interview where he spoke about the challenges Ghana's North East Region faces. Atia explained that the absence of a fully operational regional hospital prevents the region from having a key referral center for all its residents.

This revelation reignited discussions about the long history of neglect and underdevelopment in northern Ghana, particularly the North East Region. The minister made these comments on August 28th, during an appearance on the Onua Maakye radio program. Unlike the hospital, which is a practical necessity, Atia emphasized that the lack of such a facility is not just an infrastructure issue or missed opportunity for job creation.

Instead, it carries grave consequences for the well-being of the population. Access to a well-stocked regional referral hospital is vital for improving living conditions and ensuring high-quality healthcare. The Regional Minister pointed out that healthcare is a basic right, not a luxury, and the health of a population directly affects its productivity.

This is especially true in the North East Region, where maternal health is a significant concern. The region records 341 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, indicating that residents urgently need a properly equipped referral hospital and other health sector investments. The North East Region comprises six districts: East Mamprusi Municipal, West Mamprusi Municipal, Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri District, Chereponi District, Mamprugu Moagduri District, and Yunyoo-Nasuan District.

Beyond healthcare, the region continues to encounter several development hurdles, such as poor road conditions, inadequate educational infrastructure, limited agricultural support, and widespread poverty. Agriculture is the primary source of income for many residents, yet they remain concerned over the minimal investment and support provided to farmers and rural communities.

Residents and advocates argue that denying the North East Region access to improved healthcare facilities and a major referral hospital could exacerbate the region's existing challenges, especially for those living in remote areas who must travel long distances for specialized medical care. They are now demanding urgent government action to enhance healthcare infrastructure and ensure equitable access to quality health services for all residents.

Despite being established in 2019 as part of Ghana's regional reorganization, the North East Region has struggled to keep up with other regions due to deficits in critical infrastructure. These include roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and other essential social services. The absence of a regional hospital remains a pressing concern, as residents often have to rely on lower-level health centers or travel outside the region for specialized treatment.

The Regional Minister's remarks have once again highlighted the need for sustained investment in healthcare and other key sectors to bridge the development gap and enhance the quality of life for the North East Region's residents.