Procurement irregularities delay opening of Weija Paediatric Hospital – Health Ministry

The Ministry of Health has attributed the delay in operationalizing the Weija Paediatric Hospital to procurement irregularities and unresolved contractual issues, following protests by residents demanding the facility's immediate opening.

The fully equipped 120-bed hospital, completed in early 2025, aims to serve as a key referral center for pediatric care, helping to reduce congestion at existing health facilities and improve outcomes for critically ill children in Weija-Gbawe and surrounding communities.

On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, residents staged a protest at the site, demanding the immediate commissioning of the facility for public use. According to the Ministry's spokesperson, Tony Goodman, the hospital, funded by the World Bank and initiated in 2023, faced delays after concerns were raised by the funding partner.

The statement noted that the World Bank identified instances of 'misprocurement,' including allegations that the cost of some medical equipment had been inflated by up to eleven times their actual value, leading the institution to withhold payment of outstanding funds.

The Ministry added that although it had engaged relevant stakeholders and was ready to commission the hospital, the contractor suspended the process, insisting that all pending issues be resolved before handing over the facility.

The Ministry acknowledged the hospital's importance to Ghana's healthcare system and urged the public to remain calm.

'We wish to assure the public that the Ministry of Health is committed to working diligently to ensure the full operationalization of the pediatric hospital,' the statement added.