Keta: Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has revealed that the Volta Region is experiencing a significant shortfall of 253 Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds. This gap highlights the need for continuous investment in primary healthcare infrastructure throughout the region.
According to Ghana News Agency, the announcement was made by Mr Gunu during a sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a new CHPS compound at Kutsinu in the Wuti-Kutsinu-Avunu Electoral Area of the Ketu North Municipal Assembly. He noted that assessments by the Regional Coordinating Council indicate that approximately 460 CHPS compounds are needed to adequately serve the population, but currently, only 207 are operational.
Mr Gunu stated that, in response to this deficit, President John Dramani Mahama has instructed that each district and municipality should build at least two CHPS compounds annually. As a result of this directive, 36 CHPS compounds are in various stages of completion across the Volta Region and are expected to be commissioned within the next six months, enhancing healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
He emphasized the crucial role of good health in national development and productivity, suggesting that a healthy population is better equipped to support initiatives such as the 24-hour economy and fully benefit from the National Health Insurance Scheme. Mr Gunu also aligned these efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.
Mr Eric Edem Agbana, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, mentioned that the CHPS compound is part of a broader strategy by the Assembly and his office to ensure every electoral area in the constituency has a permanent primary healthcare facility. He expressed gratitude to the chiefs and community leaders for providing land for the project and encouraged residents to support the contractors and protect the construction site for a smooth and timely completion.
Mr Agbana appealed for community unity, emphasizing that development projects are designed to benefit everyone, regardless of political affiliation. He reassured residents of his commitment to fulfilling promises, mentioning that the facility is expected to be commissioned within six months. Additionally, he supported extending the community's water system to address concerns about access to potable water.
The ceremony was attended by chiefs, elders, assembly members, health officials, and community members, who expressed gratitude to the government and the Municipal Assembly for prioritizing healthcare infrastructure in the area. They pledged their support for the successful completion and maintenance of the facility.