President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana has launched the construction of a modern 400-bed Mother and Child Block at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra. This new facility aims to replace the outdated Gordon-Guggisberg Maternity Block, which President Mahama previously deemed unsafe. The project seeks to significantly enhance Korle Bu's capacity to provide specialized maternal, neonatal, and reproductive healthcare services.
The 400-bed facility will comprise various units, including Obstetrics and Gynaecology Wards, Labour and Delivery Suites, Operating Theatres, a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), High Dependency Unit (HDU), and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Additionally, it will feature an IVF and Assisted Reproductive Technology Centre, antenatal and postnatal clinics, fertility and reproductive health clinics, breastfeeding and family planning units, and an Emergency Obstetric Care Unit.
The project also includes a Diagnostic Imaging Department, Laboratory and Blood Bank facilities, Pharmacy Department, Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD), Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Units, as well as teaching, research, and conference facilities. This comprehensive setup will not only improve healthcare services but also support specialist training and medical research.
President Mahama's government has been investing in Ghana's healthcare system through expanded access to primary healthcare and improved capacity for specialized medical services. The Free Primary Healthcare Programme was launched in April 2026 as part of efforts toward Universal Health Coverage. Furthermore, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as Mahama Cares, has been expanded to support specialized treatment and the development of specialist health facilities and equipment.
The new Mother and Child Block at Korle Bu is expected to add critical infrastructure to Ghana's specialist healthcare system, particularly in maternal, neonatal, and reproductive health. With land preparation now underway, the project marks a significant step toward replacing the ageing maternity facility with a purpose-built, modern healthcare complex.
The investment in the Mother and Child Block aligns with President Mahama's vision to strengthen Ghana's healthcare system. By enhancing specialized healthcare services, the government aims to improve health outcomes for mothers, newborns, and families. The project is also expected to create a modern environment for treatment, training, and research.
Upon completion, the 400-bed Mother and Child Block will significantly enhance Korle Bu's capacity to provide quality healthcare services. The facility will serve as a model for modern healthcare delivery in Ghana, supporting the government's efforts to achieve Universal Health Coverage.
Key points
- The project aims to replace the ageing Gordon-Guggisberg Maternity Block with a modern healthcare complex.
- The new facility will include specialized units such as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and IVF Centre.
- The project is part of President Mahama's efforts to strengthen Ghana's healthcare system through investments in specialized healthcare infrastructure.
