Upper East Regional Minister Akamugri Donatus Atanga has inaugurated the Regional Health Committee, tasking its members to deliver strong leadership and sharpen healthcare governance across the region.
Speaking at Tuesday’s ceremony in Bolgatanga, Atanga said the committee will be “the brain and compass of the regional health system,” guiding strategic priorities, coordinating interventions, and ensuring no community is denied quality healthcare.
He warned that the region continues to grapple with major health challenges—including high malaria cases, inadequate infrastructure in some districts, pockets of maternal and neonatal deaths, shortages of critical health professionals, and rising lifestyle-related diseases—which demand deliberate, united leadership.
The Minister said the committee must drive efficient resource use, harmonize the efforts of government, development partners and civil society, support district health committees, and ensure that policies translate into measurable improvements.
Reaffirming government’s commitment under President John Dramani Mahama’s Resetting Agenda, Atanga highlighted plans to expand and equip health facilities, address staffing gaps, strengthen disease surveillance, improve maternal and child health, complete outstanding CHPS compounds, and upgrade the War Memorial and Bolgatanga Regional Hospitals into teaching hospitals. He also cited ongoing efforts to establish a medical school at C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Science.
Atanga urged the committee to offer exemplary leadership built on integrity, unity and strategic action, stressing that their work must lead to “reduced mortality, improved service quality, stronger partnerships, and healthier communities.”
He appealed to traditional authorities, civil society, development partners and the public to support health workers and promote healthy behaviours, noting that the region’s wellbeing is a shared responsibility.
The Minister further advised health sector leaders to foster positive working relationships, create conducive environments, avoid lording over staff, and strive to leave a lasting legacy.
The ceremony officially activated the Upper East Regional Health Committee, which is expected to play a central role in boosting health outcomes across the region.
Source: kumasimail.com
