The escalating violence at Nkwanta township has raised grave concerns for the safety of health workers, prompting the Oti Regional Health Directorate to warn of a possible facility closure if attacks on staff persist.
Dr Osei Kuffour Afreh, the Oti Regional Health Director of Services, said the ongoing conflict had already led to devastating consequences, including the death of one health worker and injuries to others. He said government institutions, such as the Kyabobo National Wildlife Park, the Police FPU and Municipal Health Directorate vehicles, had been targeted in the attacks.
Dr Afreh indicated that healthcare workers were currently afraid, with many seeking refuge, but still faced threats, adding that, the safety of healthcare workers was “non-negotiable” and urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize peace and stability. Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Dr Afreh added that, the situation had left healthcare providers struggling to cope with the influx of injured patients, while fearing for their own safety.
He said the situation was dire, and the Directorate was doing everything possible to maintain healthcare services, however, if the conflict continued to escalate, they may be forced to close some of its facilities, to protect its staff and patients.
Source: GNA
