Parliamentary Select Committee on Health assesses progress of work on KATH maternity block

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health inspected the ongoing Maternity and Children's Block project at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi to evaluate its progress and address concerns with completion. Committee Chairman Dr Mark Kurt Nawaane led the inspection, focusing on the current state of the project and the obstacles hindering timely completion.

Project Manager Emmanuel Fobi Asabre briefed the Committee, stating that the project had been suspended due to unpaid debts to the contractor. Before the suspension, construction had advanced 56 percent, while material procurement reached 75 percent. Asabre explained that the project experienced two major interruptions, primarily caused by delayed payments to the contractor.

These suspensions led to delays, additional expenses, and concerns about warranty validity and the condition of some materials. Despite the challenges, the contractor maintained the site during suspensions, and essential materials, including air-conditioning systems and building façade materials, were already procured and stored for resumption of construction.

KATH CEO Dr Paa Kwesi Baidoo emphasized the significance of the project for the hospital's expansion of specialized maternal and pediatric healthcare services. He stressed the need for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to resolve outstanding issues and facilitate the project's resumption and completion. The Committee acknowledged the importance of the Maternity and Children's Block, recognizing its potential to significantly improve maternal and child healthcare delivery at KATH.

When completed, the facility will enhance KATH's capacity to provide specialized healthcare services and contribute to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates.