Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that plans are well advanced for the processing of the second Interim Payment Certificate (IPC) for contractors working on the La General Hospital project.
During a working visit to the site with the Member of Parliament for La Dadekotopon, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, some contractors lamented that progress had slowed due to financial constraints.
Responding to their concerns, Mr. Akandoh assured them that measures have been put in place to release funds soon to ensure steady progress.
“The second IPC has been prepared and forwarded to the Ministry of Finance. Together with the MPs here, we have followed up, and the Ministry has assured us of its commitment to release the funds for this project. I am encouraged to see workers back on site and ready to continue work while awaiting payment,” he stated.
The Minister expressed confidence that, barring any unforeseen challenges, the hospital should be completed within the next two years.
“If all goes according to plan, the project will be completed within two years. We will make sure the next national budget allocates adequate resources for its completion. This is not a project we intend to abandon,” he emphasized.
A visit to the site by The New Republic revealed an almost deserted project area, with only security personnel guarding the construction equipment.
An orange seller near the site told The New Republic that the hospital used to create jobs and boost local economic activity, but since its demolition under the Akufo-Addo administration, business in the area has sharply declined, pushing many residents into hardship.
By Prince Ahenkorah