A significant milestone was achieved on 30th September, 2024, in the Savannah Region as the Holy Family Polyclinic was inaugurated, marking a momentous occasion for the local community and the healthcare sector. The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including the Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, Priest and Religious, Representatives of his Royal Majesty, Yagbonwura, the Executive Director of CHAG, Dr. Peter Yaboah, the National Director of Catholic Health Service Trust-Ghana, George Adjei Esq., the Diocesan Director of Health Service, Mr. Aiden Ngmenbon and various esteemed guests.
In his opening address, the Bishop of the Damongo Diocese, Most Rev. Peter Paul Yelezuome Angkyier expressed his profound gratitude to the community for their steadfast support in making the Holy Family Polyclinic a reality.
He acknowledged the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the project, stating, “Today is not just the inauguration of a healthcare facility; it is a testament to our shared commitment to serving the most vulnerable in our communities.”
The Bishop emphasized the importance of healthcare as a fundamental right, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure that everyone has access to quality medical care. He highlighted the role of the Church in promoting health and well-being and encouraged community members to embrace the new facility as a symbol of hope and healing.
“We are called to be stewards of our community’s health,” he said. “Let this clinic be a place where compassion and care meet, where every patient feels valued and loved.”
He concluded by reminding the community of the need for ongoing support and cooperation to sustain the clinic’s mission in the years to come.
In a speech read on his behalf, the Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunutu Jewu Soale I acknowledged the contribution of the Catholic Church in the development of Gonja land of the Polyclinic was but one of the numerous developmental interventions by the Catholic Church.
He further underscored the historical relationship between the Church and the Gonjaland, stating, “The Church has been in harmony with the Gonja people for over sixty years, and we assure you that we will treat this project as our own.”
The representive of Kulmasawura Abdulai Yahaya, in an address, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Catholic Church for selecting Kulmasa for this vital healthcare project. “We term this a Dream Come True Project, as it serves as a springboard for many more developments anticipated for Kulmasa,” he stated.
He highlighted the community’s pressing health needs and emphasized the importance of the new facility as a beacon of hope.
The Chief appealed for additional support in areas such as establishing a Technical/Vocational Institute, sponsorship for needy students, and the establishment of a Nursing Training School.
He extended singular thanks to the Bishop for his fatherly engagement throughout the project and expressed sincere gratitude to all who contributed to the hospital’s establishment.
Dr. Josephat Nyuzaghl, the Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS), commended the Medical Mission Sisters (MMS) and the Diocesan Health Service for their commitment to improving healthcare in the region. He remarked, “We are excited to be part of the triple celebration marking 100 years of the MMS Foundation and the inauguration of the Holy Family Polyclinic.”
He pointed out the challenges in accessing healthcare in the Savannah Region, noting that many sub-districts lack adequate health facilities. The new polyclinic, he asserted, will help bridge this access gap, bringing healthcare closer to community members. Dr. Nyuzaghl also discussed the barriers to effective service delivery, including inadequate infrastructure and resources, and proposed innovative approaches such as Networks of Practice (NoPs) to improve healthcare coordination.
Highlighting the significance of reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health issues, Dr. Nyuzaghl called for enhanced community engagement to reduce maternal and child mortality rates. He stated, “Healthcare delivery is a shared responsibility, and collaboration among all stakeholders is essential to improve health outcomes.”
The keynote speaker, Dr. Peter Yeboah said the new Polyclinic, if managed well, could grow to become a teaching hospital. Mr. George Adjei Esq., on his part earlier, entreated the community to see the Polyclinic as their own and jealously guard it. The community and management of the facility should ensure a peaceful working environment, which is most to foster effective collaboration.
The Medical Mission Sisters, founded by Dr. Anna Dengel, in 1925, has a rich history of addressing healthcare disparities, particularly for women in need of obstetric care. The congregation operates in 23 countries, including Ghana, where they have made significant contributions to the health sector since their arrival in 1948. They began their mission in Ghana by establishing the Berekum Holy Family Hospital, which has since evolved into a comprehensive healthcare facility. The MMS continues to extend their healing charism across the country, operating in various Dioceses, including Sunyani, Techiman, and Damango.
The inauguration of the Holy Family Polyclinic in Kulmasa symbolizes a renewed commitment to health equity in the Savannah region. The collaborative efforts of the community, the Church, and the Medical Mission Sisters will undoubtedly pave the way for improved health outcomes and community development. As the Chief and RDHS concluded their speeches, they reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding and promoting the newly inaugurated facility, ensuring that it became a cornerstone for health and wellthe region.
This significant event not only celebrates the establishment of a healthcare facility but also reinforces the community’s resolve to work together toward a healthier future for all residents in the Savannah region.
Source: Gogu Edwin/padfm.com.gh
