The government has outlined a revised and more measured approach to completing the Agenda 111 hospital projects, with a target to finish at least 35 facilities by the end of President Mahama’s tenure in 2028.
This was confirmed by the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, during an interview in which he provided an update on the status of the nationwide hospital initiative.
According to the Minister, the government conducted a comprehensive audit upon assuming office to assess the true state of the projects it inherited. The review revealed several challenges, including cases where contractors had received mobilization funds without commencing work on site.
He explained that the findings necessitated a realistic reassessment of timelines and financial commitments, noting that completing all the projects within a short period would not be feasible. “If we say we will complete all the Agenda 111 projects within one year or even four years, it is not realistic,” he stated.
The Minister emphasized that the government has adopted a phased approach to ensure that resources are directed toward projects that are closer to completion. He disclosed that about 35 of the facilities are currently above 70 percent completion and have been prioritized for funding and completion.
“These are the ones government must focus on first,” he said, adding that completing these facilities will deliver immediate benefits to communities and improve healthcare access.
He further explained that the plan is not limited to these 35 projects alone, but rather represents the first phase of a broader strategy. Additional projects will be considered in subsequent phases based on available resources and strategic partnerships.
A major challenge identified by the Minister is the significant financial requirement needed to complete all Agenda 111 projects. He noted that completing the entire program could cost as much as 20 billion Ghana cedis, a figure that would be difficult to mobilize within a short timeframe.
He pointed out that no allocation was made for the projects in the 2025 budget, as the government needed time to understand the scope and financial implications. However, funding has been provided in the 2026 budget to continue work on selected facilities.
The Minister indicated that about 10 district hospitals are currently receiving funding for continued construction this year. These projects form part of the government’s immediate efforts to maintain progress while preparing for larger-scale completion plans.
To accelerate the completion of the remaining projects, the government is considering partnerships with both non profit and private sector organizations. The Minister highlighted the potential role of the Christian Health Association of Ghana in taking over some facilities.
Under this arrangement, CHAG would complete, equip, and operate selected hospitals while the government continues to support them through staff compensation and other forms of collaboration.
“We are interested in ensuring these facilities are completed and operational,” he explained, noting that such partnerships could help bridge funding gaps and improve service delivery.
In addition, the government is exploring build operate and transfer models with private investors for projects at earlier stages of construction. This approach would allow private entities to complete and manage facilities for a period before transferring them back to the state.
While acknowledging concerns about private sector involvement, the Minister argued that such arrangements may be necessary to prevent incomplete structures from deteriorating.
“It is better than allowing these projects to rot away,” he said, emphasizing the need for practical solutions to ensure that investments already made yield tangible results.
He noted that the government remains committed to maintaining public access to healthcare services, even as it explores alternative financing and operational models.
The Minister also clarified the distinction between Agenda 111 projects and other healthcare initiatives, particularly those focused on primary healthcare. He explained that while Agenda 111 primarily targets district hospitals and higher-level facilities, other programs are aimed at strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure.
These complementary efforts, he said, are designed to create a more comprehensive healthcare system that addresses both basic and advanced medical needs.
The government’s plan to complete 35 Agenda 111 projects by 2028 reflects a shift toward a more strategic and sustainable approach to infrastructure development. By focusing on high priority projects and leveraging partnerships, authorities aim to maximize the impact of available resources.
The Minister expressed confidence that the targeted facilities will be completed, equipped, and staffed within the government’s term. “By the end of the four years, you can be sure that these projects will be completed,” he stated.
As Ghana continues to invest in its healthcare system, the success of the revised Agenda 111 strategy will depend on effective implementation, sustained funding, and collaboration with key stakeholders.