The United Kingdom has reiterated its commitment to supporting Ghana’s healthcare development as its Trade Envoy to Ghana, Ms. Bellavia Janet Ribeiro-Addy, led a high-level delegation to inspect the ongoing construction of the 138.5 million-Euro Maternity and Children’s Block at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.
The visit, which included officials from the UK Department for Business and Trade and representatives from British health infrastructure firms, was part of broader efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties between the UK and Ghana, particularly in the health sector.
Speaking during the inspection, Ms. Ribeiro-Addy expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work and commended the project’s potential to transform maternal and child healthcare in the Ashanti Region and beyond.
“This project reflects the importance of sustainable partnerships. It is a testament to what Ghana and the UK can achieve together through strategic cooperation,” she said.
Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo, acting CEO of KATH, welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the pivotal role of the UK’s involvement, stating that international support has been instrumental in reviving and pushing forward the long-delayed project.
The 508-bed facility, when completed, is expected to ease congestion, improve specialist paediatric and maternal care, and serve as a critical training and referral centre for the northern belt of Ghana.
However, Project Manager Emmanuel Fobi Asabere disclosed that funding delays had slowed progress but remained optimistic that with financial bottlenecks resolved, the facility could be operational within 18 months.
Dr. Baidoo concluded by expressing appreciation for the UK’s continued engagement and called for more collaboration to ensure timely completion of the life-saving facility.
