The Chronicle yesterday published a story about the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who threw a lifeline under an initiative to provide for the comprehensive renovation of the 70-year-old in-patient wards at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).
He intends to raise US$10 million for the proposed initiative, dubbed “Heal Komfo Anokye Project”, being implemented by a team of volunteers, made up of an Architect, a Real Estate Developer, and Marketing and Brands Communication specialists among others.
The main blocks at KATH, popularly referred to as “Blocks A, B, C and D”, are expected to be renovated at a cost of US$10 million, as part of the Legacy Projects marking the 25th Anniversary celebration of the enstoolment of the Asantehene next year.
The Asante Overlord charged Members of Parliament, churches, commercial entities, financial institutions, groups, households and individuals to take up the challenge and contribute generously towards a worthy cause. The initiative saw the light of day as individuals, institutions and organisations contributed gladly towards the project.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s recent initiative serves as a shining example of how our traditional leaders can positively impact on healthcare. The Chronicle believes it is time other chiefs in the country follow suit and contribute to vital infrastructure facilities in their various areas of jurisdiction.
Otumfuo’s dedication to raising funds for the KATH renovation project not only underscores the importance of well-equipped healthcare infrastructure, but also highlights the influential role our traditional leaders can play in community development. The success of his initiative, which exceeded the fundraising target, showcases the potential for positive change when leaders rally their communities for a shared cause.
The Chronicle will like to send a humble plea to Ga chiefs that Accra, like many other urban centers, faces healthcare challenges that demand urgent attention. The recent hike in renal dialysis costs at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital has stirred public concern about the accessibility of critical medical treatments. It is a costly treatment, and many people in Ghana cannot afford it.
For instance, chiefs in the Greater Accra Region can organise a similar initiative for the abandoned La General Hospital and the ailing Dialysis Unit at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, both of which reflect a desperate need for help.
As esteemed custodians of tradition and culture, chiefs can organise fundraising events within their communities for financial support. This could involve charity walks or community-based initiatives to encourage widespread participation.
To ensure transparency and accountability, a committee comprising community leaders, professionals and reputable individuals should be formed to oversee the collection, management and disbursement of funds.
Transparency is key, as regular updates on the progress of the fundraising efforts and their allocation should be communicated to the public. This will build trust and confidence in the process.
The chiefs can utilise their influence to encourage community members, businesses and institutions to contribute to these crucial projects. Engaging the public creates a sense of shared responsibility and fosters a collective commitment to the well-being of the community.
If successive governments have failed in providing all the requisite social infrastructure for its citizens, it is also incumbent on our chiefs, corporate bodies and individuals to come on board, since no single government can shoulder it alone.
