National Ambulance Service briefs defence ministry on ambulance acquisition

A delegation from the National Ambulance Service (NAS) Board, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr George Kofi Owusu, has briefed the Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, on plans to acquire ambulances for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

The meeting, held on Tuesday in Accra, formed part of efforts to ensure transparency and adherence to due process in the acquisition of the ambulances.

During the meeting, Dr Owusu explained that, following advice from the Attorney General regarding 30 ambulances procured in 2016 by the Ministry of Health for the National Ambulance Service, the Board had initiated steps to engage the State Transport Corporation, an independent body, to undertake a comprehensive technical assessment.

The assessment, he noted, would determine the roadworthiness and fitness for purpose of the ambulances before any further action is taken.

Dr Owusu said the move was aimed at ensuring accountability and safeguarding public resources, while guaranteeing that the ambulances meet the required standards for emergency medical services.

The Deputy Minister noted the importance of due process in all aspects of the acquisition, stressing that transparency must remain paramount.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equipping the Ghana Armed Forces with modern and reliable medical transport systems to enhance healthcare delivery within the military.

Mr Brogya subsequently approved for the National Ambulance Service to engage the State Transport Corporation to carry out the technical assessment of the ambulances.