The Penyi Health Centre, located in the Ketu North Municipality of the Volta Region, has received a new three-unit washroom facility to improve hygiene and ease the challenges faced by patients, particularly women and mothers, who visit the facility for healthcare services.

 

The modern facility, donated by Mr. Emmanuel Kudzo Akpaku, a prominent citizen of Penyi, is expected to provide dignified and accessible restroom facilities for both patients and staff.

 

Speaking at the handing-over ceremony on March 2, Mr. Akpaku revealed that he had long envisioned supporting the health centre but initially faced challenges in mobilizing the necessary support from stakeholders. However, with time and persistence, he was able to bring his vision to life.

 

"I was deeply moved by the plight of patients, especially mothers, who struggled to access the only existing washroom—a detached and dilapidated facility that did not offer privacy or dignity," he stated.

 

 

He emphasised the need for continued support from citizens and well-meaning individuals to improve healthcare infrastructure in the community.

 

 

The Municipal Director of Health, Mr. Abubakari Sumailla Gariba, commended Mr. Akpaku and the people of Penyi for their unwavering support to the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Penyi Health Centre.

 

 

He acknowledged that several healthcare facilities within the municipality face infrastructural and logistical challenges, making such interventions crucial in enhancing healthcare delivery.

 

"The health directorate faces numerous challenges across various health facilities, and we are delighted that a benevolent individual has stepped in to address a major concern at Penyi. We encourage others to follow this example," he stated.

 

The Physician Assistant in charge of Penyi Health Centre, Mr. Christian Akakpo, expressed appreciation to the donor and assured that the new washroom facility would be properly maintained to serve patients effectively.

 

He appealed for additional support to address other pressing needs at the health centre, including: Expansion of the facility to accommodate more patients, Provision of hospital beds to improve inpatient care, Additional OPD chairs for patients awaiting consultation,  Upgraded doors and security enhancements to ensure privacy and safety for both staff and clients.

 

 

Togbui Dadzi V, Fiaga of the Penyi Traditional Area, expressed profound gratitude to Mr. Akpaku for his generosity, describing the project as a significant milestone in the development of healthcare services in Penyi.

 

He used the occasion to call on all citizens of Penyi, both at home and abroad, to contribute to the development of the town.  

 

"Let all citizens come back and support the town and its key facilities, including the health centre. We must unite, encourage one another, and avoid divisive tendencies," he urged.

 

The traditional leadership and the community, he assured, would fully support such initiatives to foster development in the area.

 

The handing-over ceremony was attended by traditional leaders, health workers, Assembly members, representatives from the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), and other notable personalities from Ketu North.

 

The event underscored the power of community-driven development and the impact of individual philanthropy in improving healthcare services in rural areas.

 

As stakeholders continue to advocate for better healthcare infrastructure, the Penyi Health Centres new facility stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collective effort and community support.