Rotary Club of Accra Legon East Donates Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at University Hospital to Enhance Infant Health Care Delivery
The University of Ghana Hospital is set to significantly improve its infant health care delivery with the addition of a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), sponsored by the Rotary Club of Accra Legon East and Rotary Club Pocatello, Idaho.
This new facility is poised to provide specialised care for premature and critically ill newborns, marking a major advancement in the hospital's capacity to save lives and reduce infant mortality rates.
The NICU was officially handed over during a ceremony attended by several distinguished guests, including the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo; Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Ms. Lydia Seyram Alhassan; Past District Governor of Rotary Club Pocatello, Richard Kirkham; and the District Governor of Rotary Club Accra Legon East, Florence Maame Hagan.
Delivering remarks at the handing-over ceremony, District Governor (DG) Florence Maame Hagan highlighted the importance of the NICU, stating that it will play a crucial role in the care of pre-term babies, a key focus area for the Rotary Club.
She noted that while the facility has been handed over, the Club has pledged further support to ensure the unit is fully equipped and operational in the near future. District Governor Maame Hagan, noted that the project was a collaboration between the Rotary Club of Accra Legon East and the Rotary Club of Pocatello, Idaho, USA.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo expressed her gratitude for the Rotary Club’s continued support, highlighting that the provision of the NICU aligns with the University of Ghana's Strategic Plan, particularly in enhancing engagements and partnerships and promoting the welfare of staff and faculty.
She remarked, "Making a difference in people's lives is at the heart of what we do, and this NICU attests to that commitment."
Prof. Amfo also commended the collaborative efforts of the Rotary Clubs and the University, emphasising that such partnerships are crucial in achieving the University’s mission of having a global impact through innovative and human-centred approaches.
Ms. Lydia Seyram Alhassan, Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso West Wuogon Constituency, praised the Rotary Clubs and healthcare professionals at the University Hospital for their contributions to the new neonatal unit, describing it as a lifeline for families with premature or critically ill newborns.
She commended the Rotary Club for their generosity and ongoing commitment to community service, detailing the importance of specialised care in saving lives.
In earlier remarks, Mr. Peter Osei Asamoah, President of Rotary Club Accra Legon East, addressed the gathering. He touched on the importance of quality neonatal care while recounting the processes and events that led to the decision to construct the facility. He noted that maternal care is a priority for Rotarians and lauded the hospital's dedication to providing excellent care to vulnerable newborns.
Mr. Asamoah also mentioned that the theme for the month of July for the Rotary Clubs was Maternal Healthcare so the handing-over of the facility could not have come at a better time. He urged the Hospital Management to ensure the facility is maintained to serve future generations.
Director of University Health Services, Dr. Mark Eric Frempong, who opened the event with a warm welcome, conveyed deep gratitude of the Hospital Management to the Rotary Club for their continuous support. He highlighted the critical role that the NICU would play in providing specialised care to newborns, enhancing the hospital’s capacity to save lives.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic handover of the NICU to the University of Ghana Hospital. A plaque was also unveiled to mark the occasion.
The new NICU is expected to stand as a beacon of hope for families with newborns in need, showcasing the power of collaboration and generosity in healthcare delivery.
