- Nkwanta South healthcare workers struggle due to a curfew after violent clashes
- Curfew disrupts emergency services and hospital operations
- Health workers fear moving at night, especially after one was killed
Healthcare professionals in the Nkwanta South Municipality, located in the Oti Region, are encountering severe difficulties due to the imposition of a nighttime curfew, which is hindering their ability to offer critical medical services.
The curfew, implemented by the Ministry for the Interior from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM, was introduced on January 28 as a security measure in response to violent tribal clashes that led to multiple deaths.
Although the curfew aims to restore peace and stability, it has unforeseen effects on healthcare operations, particularly emergency response services, community outreach efforts, and general hospital functions.
Dr. Osei Kuffour Afreh, the Oti Regional Director of Health Services, expressed grave concerns about the impact of the restrictions, noting that healthcare workers are now fearful and reluctant to travel, especially at night, due to the risk of violence.
Speaking to the press following the 2024 Regional Health Review, Dr. Afreh shared that healthcare services have been severely strained since the curfew began.
He mentioned that the insecurity had already resulted in the death of a healthcare worker, which has amplified the fear among medical staff.
“The curfew is significantly disrupting healthcare services in Nkwanta South Municipality. Tragically, one of our health workers, an IT manager, was shot and killed at home during the January clashes,” he said.
“This incident has caused great fear among health workers. It’s affecting their willingness to go out and provide healthcare. One of our vehicles on an outreach mission was also shot at, with around 30 bullet holes in it.”
