The Ministry of Health has attributed the prolonged closure of the Weija Children’s (Paediatric) Hospital to significant procurement irregularities, funding disputes with the World Bank, and unresolved contractual issues. The facility, despite being physically completed, remains non-operational, sparking public outcry and protests in the Weija-Gbawe area on May 5, demanding its immediate opening to alleviate critical gaps in child healthcare.
Public Frustration Boils Over
Residents, clad in red and black, marched to protest what they deem an unjustifiable delay in operationalizing a fully equipped hospital. They argue that the facility, reportedly completed approximately two years ago, could significantly ease the burden on existing health centers and potentially prevent avoidable child fatalities.
The economic implications are also a major concern for the community. Trained healthcare professionals remain unemployed while a modern medical facility sits idle.
Ministry Cites “Misprocurement” and Funding Crisis
In a press statement released on May 5, the Ministry of Health acknowledged the public’s concerns and pointed to serious procurement breaches as the primary cause of the delay. The hospital, funded by the World Bank and launched in 2023, was initially slated for completion by December 2025.
However, the project encountered significant issues in 2024 when the World Bank identified irregularities. The Ministry stated, “The World Bank raised concerns about misprocurement, which included inflated costs of medical equipment up to about 11 times the actual price.” This discovery led to a substantial funding setback, with the World Bank consequently declining to settle all outstanding payments.
Contractor Dispute Halts Commissioning
Even as the government sought to move forward, efforts to commission the hospital were reportedly obstructed by the contractor. The Ministry disclosed that despite their readiness to open the facility, the contractor refused access.
“The contractor subsequently halted this process, insisting that all outstanding issues be fully resolved before granting access to the hospital,” the statement read. This standoff has effectively prevented the government from utilizing the completed facility.
Government Pledges Resolution
Despite the complex challenges, the Ministry has assured the public that it is actively engaged in resolving the impasse. “The Ministry wishes to assure the people of Ghana that it is actively engaging all stakeholders to resolve the matter in the best interest of the public,” it stated.
The Ministry also reiterated the hospital’s critical role in providing specialized care for children, acknowledging its importance to the nation’s health infrastructure.
Mounting Political and Community Pressure
The prolonged closure has attracted political attention, with the Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe expressing significant frustration over the repeated delays and the absence of a clear timeline for commissioning. Community leaders and residents continue to press authorities for swift action, emphasizing that the hospital is fully equipped and ready for use.
A Critical Facility in Limbo
The Weija Children’s Hospital, a 120-bed specialist facility, was designed to be a cornerstone of Ghana’s pediatric healthcare system. For now, the Ministry is appealing for patience from the community. “The Ministry therefore appeals to the people of Weija… to exercise patience while steps are taken to operationalise the hospital,” it concluded.
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