Mahama Criticises Simultaneous Construction of Agenda 111 Hospitals
President Mahama says the nationwide hospital project should have been implemented in phases to ensure better planning, accountability, and efficient use of resources.
- Mahama says starting 111 hospitals at once was imprudent
- Government to prioritise completion of 35 near-finished projects
- EOCO pursuing contractors over stalled projects and funds
President John Dramani Mahama has criticised the previous administration’s handling of the Agenda 111 hospital initiative, describing the decision to begin construction on all 111 hospitals simultaneously as poorly planned.
Speaking during a meeting with the Northern Regional House of Chiefs before departing for Geneva on an official engagement, President Mahama argued that the project should have been implemented in phases rather than all at once.
According to him, a phased approach would have allowed for better financial management and more effective execution of the healthcare infrastructure programme.
Concerns Over Project Execution
The President noted that while some of the hospital projects had reached foundation level, many others had experienced major setbacks due to poor contractor performance.
He disclosed that some contractors allegedly received mobilisation funds but failed to continue work on their assigned sites.
President Mahama said the government was taking steps to recover funds and ensure accountability, adding that the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) was investigating the matter.
Government to Prioritise Key Projects
Despite the criticism, President Mahama reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the hospital projects for the benefit of Ghanaians.
He revealed that the government had reviewed the programme and would initially focus on completing 35 hospitals that are close to completion.
Additional funding, he said, would be allocated in future national budgets to support the completion of more facilities in phases.
Partnership with Faith-Based Institutions
As part of the restructuring plan, the government also intends to collaborate with faith-based health institutions to help complete and operate some of the hospitals.
According to the President, religious organisations with experience in healthcare delivery will be encouraged to adopt selected facilities and bring them into operation.
The Agenda 111 initiative was introduced as a nationwide healthcare expansion programme aimed at improving access to medical services across the country. However, the project has faced criticism over delays, stalled works, and rising costs.
