Parliamentary Health Committee inspects KATH maternity block project

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health has conducted an inspection of the Maternity and Children’s Block at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) to assess progress and address delays. The visit, led by Committee Chairman Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, focused on identifying the bottlenecks preventing the completion of the vital healthcare facility in Kumasi. While construction has reached an advanced stage, the committee observed that financial challenges have slowed the pace of work.

Project Manager Emmanuel Fobi Asabre informed the delegation that the project is currently 56% complete, with the procurement of essential materials reaching 75%. However, active construction has been temporarily suspended due to payment delays to the contractors. Despite the current lull in labor, the committee noted that the necessary building materials remain securely stored on-site, ensuring that work can resume immediately once the financial issues are resolved.

KATH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo emphasized the project's critical importance for maternal and pediatric services in the region. He noted that the new facility is essential to alleviate the pressure on existing infrastructure and provide higher standards of care. Dr. Nawaane echoed these concerns, stating that the committee would seek to facilitate stakeholder collaboration to settle outstanding payments and ensure the project is delivered without further significant setbacks.

The final completion of the Maternity and Children’s Block is expected to have a profound impact on healthcare delivery in the Ashanti Region and beyond. By expanding the hospital's capacity and providing modern medical facilities, the project aims to significantly lower maternal and neonatal mortality rates. The committee’s intervention signals a renewed effort to prioritize the completion of this landmark health infrastructure project for the benefit of mothers and children across the country.