Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu constituency, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has made an urgent appeal to government and his fellow parliamentarians to support efforts in addressing the worsening cholera situation in his constituency.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, February 20, the MP highlighted the dire conditions at the Winneba Government Hospital, where water shortages have compounded the difficulties of overworked healthcare professionals.
He said the hospital has converted its main ward into a cholera treatment center, with additional tents set up to manage the increasing number of cases. He noted that despite visits from the Ministry of Health and the Regional Health Directorate, logistical support has yet to be provided to ease the situation.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin stated the significant stress faced by healthcare workers and patients alike, particularly children and the elderly, who are the most vulnerable to the outbreak. In response, he revealed his personal interventions, which include the purchase of 100 mattresses and the release of GHS100,000.00 However, he emphasized that more support is urgently needed to address the situation.
He said, Winneba a key commercial hub in the Central Region, attracts traders and visitors from across the country. He warned that if the outbreak is not effectively contained, it could escalate into a major national health emergency. He called on government agencies, health sector stakeholders, and businesses to urgently step in with resources such as medication, vaccinations, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health facilities.
The MP appealed to fellow Parliamentarians to extend their support, stressing the collective responsibility of leaders to assist during times of crisis. He cited past instances where he had personally supported colleagues facing challenges in their constituencies and urged members of the majority group to contribute generously, given their position in government.
