Accra: The Government of Ghana has announced an allocation of GHS130 million in the 2025 Budget to support the ongoing La General Hospital project. This initiative, overseen by Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Minister of Health, aims to complete the delayed hospital project within the next two years. The announcement was made during Mr. Akandoh’s recent visit to the hospital’s construction site to assess the progress of the work.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Akandoh was accompanied by Madam Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, the Member of Parliament for the La Dade-Kotopon Constituency, and other officials from the Ministry and Constituency. The project, which commenced in 2020, has encountered funding challenges, resulting in delays. Mr. Akandoh highlighted that the project initially faced difficulties due to the lack of dedicated loans or grants, relying solely on national budget allocations. The 2025 budget allocation is crucial for maintaining progress on the £50 million project, with approximately £43 million still outstanding.
Interim Payment Certificates have been submitted to the Ministry of Finance, and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has committed to ensuring the timely release of funds to facilitate the project’s completion. Mr. Akandoh expressed gratitude to the contractors and workers for their continued presence on site despite payment delays. He emphasized his personal interest in the project’s completion, noting its potential to alleviate pressure on other hospitals in the region.
Madam Hilda Xiea, the Contract Manager for the project, appreciated the Minister’s visit, viewing it as motivation for the project team. She acknowledged the challenges faced due to suspended payments since October 2024 but expressed hope that funding issues would soon be resolved.
The Minister’s tour included briefings from project consultants and contractors. The La General Hospital project, launched in 2020 by the previous NPP administration, aims to replace the old hospital structure demolished due to structural defects. The redevelopment includes a modern 160-bed facility with outpatient, emergency, maternity, and surgical units, alongside staff accommodations and administrative blocks. This project is part of the Government’s broader agenda to enhance access to quality healthcare infrastructure nationwide.