The Ministry of Health Ghana has responded to a demonstration held at the Weija Paediatric Hospital on May 5, 2026, outlining challenges that have delayed the facility’s operationalisation.
In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Tony Goodman, the Ministry expressed concern over the protest and provided clarity on the status of the project.
“The hospital is a World Bank-funded project, which commenced in 2023 and was expected to be completed in December 2025,” the statement noted.
The Ministry disclosed that the project encountered setbacks after procurement irregularities were flagged.
“However, in 2024, the World Bank raised concerns about misprocurement, which included inflated costs of medical equipment—up to about 11 times the actual price.”
According to the statement, this development affected payments for the project.
“As a result, the World Bank declined to settle all outstanding payments.”
Despite efforts to make the facility operational, the process was halted.
“Recognising the importance of the project, the Ministry of Health engaged relevant stakeholders and was prepared to commission the facility for use. However, the contractor subsequently halted this process, insisting that all outstanding issues be fully resolved before granting access to the hospital.”
The Ministry assured the public that efforts are ongoing to resolve the impasse.
“The Ministry wishes to assure the people of Ghana that it is actively engaging all stakeholders to resolve the matter in the best interest of the public.”
It further emphasised the hospital’s importance to healthcare delivery in Ghana.
“The Ministry acknowledges the critical importance of the hospital within Ghana’s healthcare delivery system, particularly in providing specialised care for children.”
Reaffirming its commitment, the Ministry stated:
“We wish to assure the general public that the Ministry of Health is committed to working assiduously to ensure the full operationalisation of the Paediatric Hospital.”
The Ministry also called for calm among residents and the general public.
“The Ministry therefore appeals to the people of Weija, in particular, and the general public at large, to exercise patience while steps are taken to operationalise the hospital.”
