- Government lacks funds for Agenda 111 hospital project.
- NHIA is bankrupt, compromising NHIS, according to Akandoh.
- Government's claim of commissioning 50 hospitals is unrealistic.
The Ranking Member on the Health Committee of Parliament, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has reiterated his stance on the government’s inability to fund the ambitious Agenda 111 hospital project. He made this statement during an interview on Onua FM’s Yen Nsempa show hosted by Nana Yaa Brefo and co-hosted by Isaac Ekow JB on May 26.
Akandoh alleged that the government has rendered the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) bankrupt, which has severe implications for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This follows a press statement by the Minority in Parliament highlighting the dire financial situation of the NHIS under the current administration.
The government claims to have commissioned 50 hospitals out of the 111, but Akandoh challenged this assertion, stating that it is unrealistic given the financial constraints. He emphasized that the government’s inability to sustain NHIS has rendered it bankrupt, which raises questions about their ability to fund Agenda 111.
Akandoh asserted that promises made regarding the construction of 111 hospitals would not materialize due to a lack of funds. He quoted the President’s statement that 111 hospitals would be completed before January 2025, which he believes is unfeasible.
Akandoh has been vocal about his skepticism regarding Agenda 111 since its inception. He recalled being labeled a “prophet of doom” for his warnings that the project would not come to fruition. He accused the NPP of prioritizing political gains over the welfare of Ghanaians.
The Ranking Member criticized the government’s approach to healthcare, accusing them of playing politics with the lives of Ghanaians. He warned against the potential consequences of hastily commissioning hospitals without adequate equipment and resources.
Akandoh predicted that the NPP and its Flagbearer, Mahamadu Bawumia, would attempt to commission hospitals quickly ahead of the 2024 general elections to create a temporary illusion of progress. However, he cautioned that such facilities might not be fully operational or beneficial to patients.
He emphasized that the government’s focus on political capital would compromise the quality of healthcare services. Akandoh urged the government to prioritize the welfare of Ghanaians over political gains.
The government’s handling of the NHIS and Agenda 111 has raised concerns about the future of healthcare in Ghana. Akandoh’s warnings have sparked debate about the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
Akandoh’s statements highlight the need for transparency and accountability in government projects, particularly those affecting the health and wellbeing of citizens. The government must prioritize the welfare of Ghanaians over political gains to ensure the success of initiatives like Agenda 111.
