The Forum for Accountability and Development of Sefwi (FADOS) has issued a statement defending the recent donation made by the Paramount Chief of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Area, HRM Katakyie Kwasi Bumankama, to the Heal Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) project.
The GH¢300,000 donation has sparked controversy among local council members who argue that the funds could have benefited local medical facilities.
They believe developmental donations must be first injected into the region before being extended to other regions.
However, FADOS views the contribution as a necessary and commendable act.
In their statement, FADOS said KATH plays a critical role KATH plays in the healthcare of residents from the Western North Region (WNR).
As the largest referral health facility for the region, KATH provides essential services including advanced medical care, consultations, and emergency treatments.
Many residents, facing severe health issues, often rely on KATH for specialized care not available locally. This includes road accident victims and patients with serious injuries, highlighting the hospital’s importance in regional healthcare.
KATH has historically served as a key healthcare provider for the WNR, offering routine medical consultations and emergency care.
Data from hospitals within the WNR supports the claim that KATH is a vital facility, frequently used by residents for advanced treatments.
The collaboration between the WNR and KATH is seen as beneficial, making the donation by Katakyie Kwasi Bumankama an appropriate and strategic support gesture.
In response to the argument of the funds being used for local development, FADOS outlined several significant development projects spearheaded by the Sefwi-Wiawso Traditional Council under the leadership of Katakyie Kwasi Bumankama.
These include an 800-capacity nursing hostel at Sefwi Wiawso NMTC, mechanized boreholes at various schools and communities, and renovated market spaces and sports facilities.
Additionally, the traditional council has provided crucial healthcare support with equipment such as anesthesia machines and vacuum ventilators for the Sefwi-Wiawso Government Hospital, renovated the hospital’s maternity block, and conducted health screenings and insurance registrations for thousands of residents.
Educational initiatives include scholarships for 850 students, renovation of community schools, and provision of school buses and pickup vehicles.
Community development efforts include providing free land for State Housing Development and Zipline buildings, and the renovation of the Sefwi-Wiawso Traditional Palace.
FADOS concluded that the donation to KATH aligns with the traditional council’s broader mission of regional and national development.
The gesture not only strengthens royal ties but also ensures that resources are allocated to facilities that have proven to be indispensable to the WNR’s healthcare system.
FADOS encourages other organizations and citizens to support such initiative for the continued well-being of the region’s inhabitants.