The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh, has criticised the previous administration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over what he describes as inadequate planning in the implementation of the Agenda 111.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series, the Minister stated that despite an estimated GH₵4.8 billion reportedly spent on the initiative, none of the hospitals is currently operational.
He argued that the project could have yielded more tangible outcomes if it had been better structured and supported by secured financing from the outset.
“If you read the 2026 budget, it was clearly stated that this year we are going to finish about 10, and we may even finish more,” he said. “This time we are planning… we are looking for the source of funding.”
Launched under the Akufo-Addo administration, Agenda 111 was intended to construct 111 healthcare facilities nationwide to expand access to medical services, particularly in underserved communities. However, the initiative has faced persistent delays and funding constraints.
Mr Akandoh indicated that the current government led by John Dramani Mahama is adopting a more strategic and coordinated approach to ensure the completion and operationalisation of the projects.
He disclosed that efforts are underway to engage key stakeholders, including faith-based organisations such as the Christian Health Association of Ghana, as well as private sector partners, to support the completion and management of the facilities.
“We are not into competition with them… Can they come in to pick some of them, finish, equip, and run?” he stated, underscoring the government’s openness to collaboration with non-state actors.
The Minister added that the revised approach prioritises securing funding and aligning resources prior to execution, with the aim of avoiding the challenges that characterised the initial rollout of the programme.
