The Ministry of Health has dismissed media reports suggesting disruptions to the ongoing Weija Paediatrics Hospital Project, clarifying that construction continues uninterrupted and no official publication has been issued by the Ministry regarding the project.
In a press release, the Ministry said it has neither suspended nor terminated any contract related to the World Bank–supported facility, which is being executed by Awerco Construction Limited on a design-and-build basis. The contract covers both construction works and the supply and installation of medical equipment.
The Ministry emphasized that the World Bank is not a contractual party to the works or equipment agreements with the contractor, aside from providing funding support. It added that no notices of cancellation, suspension or termination have been issued to Awerco Construction Limited, contrary to claims circulating in sections of the media.
Addressing matters arising from procurement concerns, the Ministry disclosed that the World Bank conducted a Post-Procurement Review of a CT scanner purchased for the project by the previous administration. The review found that the equipment had been procured at prices significantly above market value, ranging from three to 11 times the average cost. As a result, the World Bank withdrew $3.8 million that had been used for the procurement.
Despite the funding adjustment, the Ministry stressed that the Weija Paediatrics Hospital Project itself has not been cancelled and remains a Ministry of Health facility nearing completion. Snagging works are currently ongoing, with preparations underway for takeover and operationalisation.
The Ministry noted that it continues to engage the contractor and the World Bank separately, in line with their respective contractual and funding roles, to ensure the project is delivered in the interest of Ghanaians.
It further urged media organisations to verify information with official Ministry sources before publishing reports on the project, to avoid the spread of misinformation.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to advancing quality healthcare delivery and ensuring transparency in the execution of public health infrastructure projects across the country.