The Health Minister nominee, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has given his word that he will not arbitrarily terminate contracts within the health sector when given the nod.
He gave teh assurance when he appeared before the Vetting Committee on Friday, january 31, 2025.
“Mr Chairman, we all know the private sector is the engine of growth, and I am not prepared to capriciously terminate any contract in the sector,” he said.
He was quick to add that, while he would not act rashly, he would not hesitate to scrutinise agreements as needed.
“When there is the need for me to look into something, I will,” he added while adding that there was a need to have a balanced approach to oversight and accountability in his ministry.
Meanwhile, he has announced aprobe into the ambulance spare parts deal.
He said the terms of agreement between the Ministry of Health and the company responsible for maintaining the country’s ambulance fleet were questionable.
“For the spare parts and the contract with the company maintaining Ghana’s ambulances, I have received a briefing on the issue. If approved by the committee, I am determined to investigate this matter thoroughly,” he stated.
The nominee disclosed that the same company was awarded a contract to procure 307 ambulances for $41 million, adding that a subsequent five-year maintenance contract for the same fleet had been signed at a staggering $77 million.
“This company was contracted to purchase 307 ambulances for $41 million. However, I have seen a contract showing that the ministry later signed a maintenance agreement worth $77 million over five years. The rate of vehicle deterioration does not justify such an amount. I intend to launch an investigation into this arrangement,“ Mr. Akandoh said.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
