Health and Ashanti Regional Ministers intervene in KATH water crisis

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akamdoh and Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amokohene have stepped in to address a water crisis at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. This crisis forced doctors to cancel new surgical cases.

To help, more water tankers will supply the hospital. For over a week, the hospital has relied on water from fire services and private tankers. The Ghana Water Company Limited reduced its services due to operational issues.

This arrangement has not met the needs of over 12,000 people at the hospital. Kwame Frimpong, head of Public Affairs at KATH, explained that this includes 6,000 staff members, 4,000 medical students, 1,300 outpatients, and 700 admitted patients.

A press release addressed the situation after Myjoyonline reported on it. The hospital stated that current supplies are inadequate for its size and operations. As a result, doctors at the Trauma and Orthopedic Directorate canceled all new surgical cases until the issue is resolved.

The Komfo Anokye Doctors Association sent a memo to management about this decision. They emphasized it was made for patient care and safety.

KATH management announced that both ministers are coordinating efforts to increase water tanker supplies temporarily. They aim to improve water availability during this crisis.

Additionally, KATH management has requested a dedicated pipeline for the facility. Sharing a pipeline with other Kumasi residents has created problems for their water supply.