President John Dramani Mahama has inspected newly constructed Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds at Ahyiayem and Nsuapem in the Tano North Municipality of the Ahafo Region as part of his tour of development projects.
During his remarks at Ahyiayem, President Mahama explained that his administration had introduced measures to address challenges associated with the District Assemblies Common Fund, which he said had contributed to delays in the implementation of development projects at the local government level.
According to the President, upon assuming office, he observed difficulties affecting the release and use of the fund for development initiatives in the districts.
To address the situation, he said he had directed that 80 per cent of the Common Fund be allocated to the assemblies to support development projects based on the specific needs and priorities of their respective communities.
President Mahama explained that the policy was intended to empower district assemblies to undertake essential infrastructure projects, including CHPS compounds, schools and other community development facilities.
He said the newly constructed CHPS compound at Ahyiayem was one of the projects being implemented under the arrangement, hence his decision to inspect the facility and assess progress in the provision of healthcare infrastructure.
The President further assured residents that healthcare services at the CHPS compound would be provided free of charge.
He also highlighted the planned implementation of the Free Primary Healthcare initiative, which he said would provide access to essential health services, including screening and care for conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, as well as maternal healthcare.
President Mahama said the initiative was intended to strengthen access to healthcare at the community level, allowing residents to receive essential services closer to their homes.
Following the inspection at Ahyiayem, the President proceeded to Nsuapem, also in the Tano North Municipality, where he inspected another newly constructed CHPS compound.
The inspections form part of efforts to assess development projects undertaken by district assemblies and the provision of essential social infrastructure to improve healthcare delivery in local communities.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
