Water shortage hits Ho Municipal Hospital; authorities seeks urgent assistance

The Ho Municipal Hospital, a leading healthcare facility in the Volta Region, has been grappling with a critical water crisis that has persisted for years, severely impacting its operations and service delivery.

Hospital administrators have revealed that periodic water shortages have become a significant obstacle, affecting all departments.

Mr. Alfred Adigbli, the Deputy Administrator, described the situation as dire, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable water source and essential equipment for the labour ward. He called on benevolent individuals, NGOs, and other organizations to step in and support the hospital.

Madam Patience Akorsu, the Principal Midwifery Officer, emphasized the necessity of adequate water supply, particularly for cleaning blood and medical equipment in the labour ward. The hospital has been relying on water deliveries from the Ghana National Fire Service and Ghana Water Company. However, this stopgap measure is far from adequate, prompting appeals for long-term solutions such as mechanized boreholes and storage tanks.

In addition to water supply issues, the hospital is also struggling with outdated infrastructure. Mr. Adigbli noted that many of the hospital’s facilities need renovation and modernization to meet current healthcare standards.

The pressing challenges came to light during a visit by Dreams Impact Foundation on November 28, 2024. The charitable organization donated clothing parcels and cash to mothers of newborns at the hospital, underscoring the growing needs of the labour ward. The unit currently operates with 19 midwives, some of whom are on maternity leave or pursuing further education, placing additional strain on available resources.

Despite these difficulties, patients have praised the hospital’s efforts. A mother of a three-day-old baby awaiting discharge commended the care provided by the staff, even amid the facility’s resource constraints.

The water crisis at the Ho Municipal Hospital mirrors broader issues affecting the municipality, with water systems struggling to keep pace with demand. Hospital leaders and staff are urging the public to visit the facility, assess its condition, and offer support. They hope that increased awareness and assistance will help address the hospital’s challenges and ensure better healthcare delivery for the region.