In a significant move to bolster healthcare delivery in the Wassa Amenfi East Municipality, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Raymond Nana Ebbah, has officially handed over a brand-new ambulance to the National Ambulance Service.
The intervention comes as a relief to the municipality, where the lack of reliable emergency transport has long hindered the referral of critical cases to larger hospitals.
The new Toyota Hiace (GW-6629-26) was acquired through the MCE’s personal initiative and lobbying efforts.
According to Hon. Nana Ebbah, the request was fulfilled by a businessman known as Director DJ, who donated the vehicle just two days after being approached.
The ambulance is fully equipped with modern life-saving medical apparatus, including mobile stretchers and vacuum splints, Oxygen cylinders and ventilators, Patient monitors and vital signs equipment, CPR machines and incubation sets, Suction devices and paramedic jump bags.
During the handing-over ceremony at Wassa Akropong, the MCE highlighted the dire state of emergency services prior to this donation.
He revealed that the municipality’s only existing ambulance had been grounded despite numerous repair attempts.
”It was disheartening to see patients, including pregnant women, forced to travel to Kumasi in taxis.
Tragically, some lost their lives on the road due to the lack of proper medical transport,” the MCE stated.
He emphasized that a functional ambulance service accounts for roughly 70% of successful emergency medical outcomes by providing crucial first aid during the “golden hour” of transit.
The ceremony was graced by the Omanhene of the Wasa Amenfi Traditional Area, Tetrete Okuamoah Sekyim II, the Queen Mother Nana Ameyaa, divisional chiefs, and various departmental heads.
The MCE expressed his profound gratitude to the Paramount Chief for his guidance, noting that this achievement adds to his legacy of service in the municipality.
Receiving the keys to the vehicle, Dr. Patrick Inkoom-Colbelson, the Acting Deputy CEO of the National Ambulance Service, commended the MCE and the donor for their swift action.
He noted that while emergency response had previously been a challenge in the area, this new addition would significantly improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Inkoom-Colbelson assured the public that the service would prioritize the maintenance of the vehicle.
However, he issued a stern warning against the misuse of emergency lines.
”I urge all Ghanaians to avoid prank calls. These frivolous calls hinder help for those in genuine need and divert resources away from life-threatening situations,” he cautioned.
Source: Kaakyire Kwasi Afari, Ark FM
