Asukawkaw: First Lady, Mrs. Lordina Mahama has emphasised the need for improved maternal healthcare delivery, stating that no woman should die while giving life. She made this call at the commissioning of a maternity and children's ward at Asukawkaw community in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the facility was established in response to an appeal from the President of the Akroso Traditional Council, Nana Odam Gyamfi, and is designed to enhance healthcare access for women and children. First Lady Lordina Mahama mentioned that the ward is fully equipped with advanced medical technology and essential amenities, ready to serve the community.
Through the Lordina Foundation, Mrs. Mahama has funded maternity and children's wards in Nkoranza of the Bono East Region, Bole of Savannah Region, Bodom maternity and children's ward, and Asukawkaw of the Oti Region. She stated that the newly built Asukawkaw maternity and children's ward will bring dignity to every mother, child, and family in this community.
Highlighting the broader significance of maternal health, Mrs. Mahama remarked, "Maternal health is not just a woman's issue, it is a national issue. When a mother receives quality healthcare, her child is more likely to survive, her family is more secure, and her community is stronger."
Health Minister Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh praised the initiative as a boost to the government's quality-focused free primary healthcare efforts. He explained that the facility aligned with the ministry's goal of removing financial barriers and making essential services available at the first point of care.
Addressing chiefs, stakeholders, and community members of the Asukawkaw enclave, Mr. Akandoh emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting infrastructure, equipment maintenance, and service innovation while ensuring quality and accountability. He also highlighted the government's efforts to advance healthcare through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, which protects citizens from catastrophic healthcare costs associated with non-communicable diseases and other high-burden conditions.
He noted that free primary healthcare and initiatives such as the Lordina Foundation are crucial in prioritizing prevention and early detection, ensuring that cost is not a barrier to healthcare access.
The Asukawkaw facility is expected to significantly improve healthcare services for pregnant women and newborns in the area, bringing dignity and hope to families.