Brogya Genfi reveals why $180 million Afari Military Hospital remains unfinished

Deputy Minister for Defence Ernest Brogya Genfi has provided an update on the long-delayed Military Hospital project at Afari in the Ashanti Region, stating that government is taking steps to complete the facility.

The 500-bed hospital project was launched in March 2014 under the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama. The project, valued at $180 million, was originally expected to be completed by 2018.

According to Brogya Genfi, progress on the project stalled over the years due to administrative challenges, mismanagement and delays.

He said that when the current government took office, work on the site had stopped and the contractor had left the project.

“The contractor is demanding outstanding payments of $7 million and $78 million before returning to site, even though the previous regime claimed to have settled all obligations and refused further payment,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister also disclosed that some medical equipment imported for the hospital was left at the port for years, leading to significant costs. Some of the equipment was eventually auctioned, while other items became outdated or were stolen.

He explained that the project is currently about 60 percent complete. While civil and architectural works are almost finished, biomedical and mechanical installations remain largely incomplete.

“Currently, the hospital stands at 60% overall completion, with civil and architectural works at 97% but biomedical and mechanical installations at only 5%,” he said.

Brogya Genfi noted that government has re-engaged the contractor and is reviewing the contract while assessing available medical equipment to support the completion of the project.

He added that the Ghana Armed Forces are securing the facility following reported thefts at the site and urged the public to seek authorization before entering the project area.

“Government has since re-engaged the contractor, reviewing the contract and is currently assessing all medical equipment available in-country to ensure speedy recovery and completion,” he said.