The Ministry of Health has explained that delays in opening the Weija Paediatric Hospital are due to procurement concerns and unresolved contractual disputes, following protests by residents demanding its immediate use.
The 120-bed facility, completed in early 2025, is expected to serve as a key referral centre for child healthcare, helping to reduce pressure on existing hospitals and improve outcomes for critically ill children in the Weija-Gbawe area and nearby communities.
On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, residents demonstrated at the site, urging authorities to commission the hospital without further delay.
In a statement signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Tony Goodman, the Ministry indicated that although the project—funded by the World Bank and initiated in 2023—was expected to be completed by December 2025, it faced setbacks after issues were raised by the funding partner.
According to the statement, the World Bank identified cases of “misprocurement,” including claims that some medical equipment had been overpriced significantly, leading the institution to withhold payment of outstanding funds.
The Ministry said it had engaged stakeholders and was ready to proceed with commissioning, but the contractor suspended the process, insisting that all pending issues be resolved before handing over the facility.
Officials say discussions are ongoing to address the challenges and ensure the hospital becomes operational.
The Ministry acknowledged the critical role of the facility in strengthening paediatric care delivery and appealed to the public for patience as efforts continue to resolve the impasse.
