A new GH¢5 million maternity block is to be constructed for the Atua Government Hospital at Krobo Odumase in the Eastern Region to improve maternal and child healthcare in the area.

The 20-bed facility, expected to occupy about 720 square metres, will include a delivery ward, theatre, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), laboratory, triage, reception, lying-in ward, nurses’ station, storerooms and kitchenettes.

The initiative is part of a broader health infrastructure programme aimed at expanding access to quality maternity care in underserved communities. Funding support is being sought from corporate institutions and individuals, with more than GH¢500,000 already raised through contributions from partners, including OmniBISC Bank.

Organisers say the project responds to the urgent need for better-equipped maternity centres across the country, a gap that continues to hinder efforts to reduce maternal mortality.

The announcement was made during the maiden Dada Legacy Awards held in Accra, where individuals and organisations were recognised for their contributions to national development.

Dr Paul Kofi Fynn, Founder and Chancellor of Wisconsin International University College, Ghana, received the ultimate honour for leadership and service.

Other awardees included Lordina Mahama, Founder of the Lordina Mahama Foundation; Dr Akosua Dzifa Hagan, Registrar of the Lutheran Theological Seminary; Stephen Ameyaw, CEO of Shrinq Limited; Ibrahim Mahama, Founder of Engineers and Planners; and Ghana West Africa Medical Mission Inc.

Delivering the keynote address, Nana Addae Gyamera I, Chief of Feyiase in the Ashanti Region, described Dr Fynn as “a shining example of leadership, compassion, and service.”

Dr Fynn, in his remarks, emphasised the importance of public service, noting that “material possessions are vanity; the key is serving the people.”