The Ministry of Health has dismissed media publications concerning the Weija Paediatrics Hospital Project, stating that it has neither made nor sanctioned any public commentary on the project and that construction is progressing without interference.
This statement was signed by Tony Goodman, Head of Health Training Institutions and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health in a press release addressing matters arising, the Ministry clarified that work on the World Bank-funded facility at Weija is ongoing under Awerco Construction Limited.
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The project, it said, was awarded on a design-and-build basis and includes the supply and installation of medical equipment as part of the contract.
The Ministry stressed that while the World Bank is providing funding for the project, it is not a party to either the works or equipment contracts executed with the contractor.
It further stated that no notices of termination, suspension, or cancellation have been issued to Awerco Construction Limited, contrary to suggestions circulating in parts of the media.
According to the Ministry, the World Bank previously conducted a Post-Procurement Review of a CT scanner purchased for the project by the former government.
The review found that the prices of items procured were between three and 11 times the average or fair market price. As a result of these findings, the World Bank withdrew an amount of 3.8 million US dollars that had been used to procure the equipment.
The Ministry emphasised that the Weija Paediatrics Hospital Project itself has not been cancelled and remains a Ministry of Health facility nearing completion.
Snagging works are currently ongoing, with preparations underway for takeover and eventual operation.
It added that engagement with the contractor and the World Bank continues separately, in line with their respective contractual and funding roles.
The Ministry also cautioned media organisations to verify information with official sources before publication, reiterating its commitment to acting in the interest of Ghanaians by providing quality healthcare.
