Accra: Africa's Brain Bank, a non-profit organization, has initiated the construction of an Africa Medical City project in Togbloku Okor, within the Ada East District. The ambitious project, expected to encompass hospitals, medical training institutions, and various healthcare-related facilities, aims to create significant employment and skills development opportunities. It also seeks to establish a major healthcare and medical training hub for Ghana and other African nations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Reverend Pam Fomunung, the Chief Executive Officer and Group Chair of Africa's Brain Bank, revealed that the project's vision was originally conceived in 2019 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Efforts to revive the project commenced in 2023, following discussions with traditional authorities in Ada. Rev. Fomunung, also a development queen mother for the Amafuwe of Lomobiawe in Ada, emphasized the project's need for billions of dollars in investment, urging Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora to participate financially.
Dr. Michael K. Obeng, President of Africa's Brain Bank and founder and CEO of MiKO Plastic Surgery and MiKO Pharma, highlighted Ghana's selection as the project's location as a testament to the country's appeal as a major investment destination. He pointed out the continent's challenges, including the importation of medicines, migration of trained health professionals, and patients seeking treatment abroad, which result in significant resource loss.
Dr. Obeng stressed that Africa possesses the technical expertise to tackle its healthcare issues but requires the necessary infrastructure and investment to retain its professionals. The first phase of the project is anticipated to conclude within three to five years, with further phases developed progressively.
Dr. Diola Bagayoko, a board member of the Medical City project, noted that the development would include hospitals, training schools, and other facilities to offer comprehensive healthcare services. He emphasized Ghana's strategic geographical location as a base to serve people across Africa and globally, urging Africans to take responsibility for building the continent's institutions and infrastructure.
Nene Lomo IV, Divisional Chief of the Lomobiawer Clan of the Ada Traditional Area, expressed the traditional authority's support for the project, highlighting the numerous opportunities it would bring to the area. The clan has allocated 2,000 acres of land for the endeavor.
Mr. Blemano Odehe Yiboi I, President of the Lomobiawe Youth Association, underscored the project's potential to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, spanning various sectors such as masonry, electrical, healthcare, and information technology. He emphasized the initiative's focus on medical training, specialized healthcare, research, and technology, positioning Ada as a key destination for healthcare and medical education.
Naana Lomoki Lomo I, Divisional Queen of the Lomobiawer Clan, highlighted Togbloku Okor's historical significance to the Ada people and expressed optimism about the project's positive community impact. She encouraged African professionals working abroad to return and contribute to the continent's development, urging young people, especially girls, to seize the opportunities arising from the project.