Mahama calls out Agyeman Manu, Oko Boye, Nsiah-Asare

John Dramani Mahama has questioned the use of nearly $400 million allocated to the Agenda 111 hospital project, arguing that the expenditure has not resulted in any operational hospital.

Addressing the nation, Mahama criticised the programme’s progress and identified Dr. Bernard Oko Boye, Kweku Agyeman Manu, and Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare among the officials associated with the project.

He maintained that effective oversight and tighter financial controls could have produced better results, potentially allowing the country to complete at least 22 hospitals with the resources committed.

Mahama further disputed claims that the hospitals were almost ready for operation, stating that none was serving patients despite the substantial investment.

Agenda 111 was introduced by the administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo to improve healthcare delivery by constructing hospitals across underserved areas. The programme has since faced delays and scrutiny over its expenditure.

Beyond the hospital project, Mahama outlined several financial concerns facing Ghana. He reported that the Sinking Fund had balances of just $64,000 and GH¢143,000.

He also revealed that Ghana must repay GH¢280 billion in debt over the next four years. This includes GH¢150 billion in domestic debt and GH¢130 billion in external obligations. The country’s overall debt, according to his statement, stands at GH¢721 billion.

Mahama highlighted the financial difficulties of state-owned enterprises, reporting that ECG’s debt had reached GH¢68 billion and COCOBOD’s liabilities stood at GH¢32.5 billion.

To address the economic situation, he announced plans to organise a National Economic Dialogue and introduce budgetary measures aimed at stabilising the economy and supporting recovery.

Mahama acknowledged the hardships facing Ghanaians but expressed determination to improve the situation. Referring to his previous efforts to resolve the power crisis, he said he was equally committed to addressing the country’s economic problems.

He concluded by stressing the need for sound financial management, greater accountability, transparency, and a long-term strategy for national development.

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