Nabdam MP commissions new block at Gundug/Wore-Daah Health Centre

The sun rose brightly over Gundug/Wore-Daah as the community gathered with anticipation. This was no ordinary day; it was the day their health centre would take a significant leap.

The Nabdam Member of Parliament, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, stood before the crowd, his words brimming with pride and gratitude as he commissioned a new block at the health centre, an achievement made possible through determination, collaboration, and vision.

Dr. Nawaane began by recounting the journey to this milestone. “There was a time they wanted to simply add to an existing facility,” he recalled, “but I insisted: our people deserve their own health centre.” The task was not simple. Land had to be secured, and not just any piece of land would do. “When it comes to health facilities,” Dr. Nawaane explained, “you can’t just build anywhere. It must be accessible, visible, and decent.” He paid special tribute to the Constituency Vice Chairman, whose tireless efforts ensured that the right location was found and acquired: “With his help, we were able to start, and now, all of this is history.”

The health centre began as a modest project, just a small block. But the dream grew. “Today, we’ve added a maternity ward,” Dr. Nawaane announced, his voice full of hope for the future. He thanked everyone present, acknowledging their role in making this vision a reality. Yet, he made it clear that the journey was far from over, drawing attention to the need for improvements to the main road connecting Asonge, Zanlerigu, Damolgo, Tindongo, Pelungu, and Sakoti, to ensure even better access for all.

The event was also an opportunity for the Nabdam District Health Director, Sadia Salifu, to express heartfelt appreciation. “We are very grateful for your continual support to the health service,” she said. “This facility is a testament to your commitment to improving the health of our mothers and babies.” She assured the MP and the community that the centre would be well cared for and put to full use in providing quality care.

However, Madam Salifu, like Oliver Twist, humbly asked for more. She highlighted the need for medical equipment: more beds, delivery sets, and diagnostic tools. “Right now, when a scan is needed, we have to refer women all the way to Bolga. Portable scan machines would make a big difference.” She also appealed to the community to support the centre’s upkeep, noting the challenge of keeping the facility clean without a government-paid cleaner.

Motivation for staff was another key point. Many staff members had relocated from far-off places to serve the community, and Salifu encouraged everyone to recognize their dedication, not just with money, but with words of thanks or simple acts of appreciation, especially during festivals. She revealed plans to add another midwife to serve the growing population, which now exceeded a thousand people across Gundug and other nearby communities.

Madam Salifu also urged residents to patronize the health centre. “If you don’t come here,” she explained, “our records show fewer deliveries. Policymakers use this data, and it affects future support. Let’s show that we need and use this facility.”

No story of progress is without its challenges. Salifu noted a few ongoing issues: water supply sometimes ran dry between March and April, some doors and locks needed fixing, and there was a shortage of light bulbs. She called on the contractor to ensure proper cleaning before handing over the building, as staff and community members had to step in to prepare the facility for use.

Meanwhile, the contractor for the project, Jacob Azumah of Winmailes Company Limited, expressed his gratitude for the support and cooperation received from the community, which enabled the timely completion of the project. He encouraged everyone to handle the facility with care.

As the ceremony drew to a close, the sense of accomplishment mingled with hope for continued support. The story of Gundug/Wore-Daah Health Centre is one of perseverance and partnership, a reminder that the journey towards quality healthcare is ongoing, and every new block laid is a foundation for a healthier future.

The commissioning was attended by the community chief, the DCE, assembly officials, party leadership, and other community opinion leaders.