In a collaborative effort, Global Communities and USAID have presented a boat, vehicles, and motorcycles to the Ghana Health Service, specifically designated for use in island communities along the Volta Lake in the Oti Region. This initiative aims to overcome the historical challenge of reaching isolated island communities and improve access to healthcare services.
The centrepiece of this innovative solution is the 20-foot boat, aptly named the “Health Voyager,” designed to directly bring essential healthcare services to communities such as Tokpo, Dentemanso, Yaben, Kotokoli, Tekperkope, Obimpeh, and nearby areas along the Volta Lake in the Krachi East and Krachi West districts of the Oti region.
The Health Voyager is meticulously crafted for optimal performance and safety in challenging environments. Constructed from reinforced fibreglass for durability, it features a spacious interior with seating for 19 adults, storage cabins, tool compartments, and a washroom or change room for passenger convenience. Equipped with two 40 HP outboard motors, remote steering systems, and a galvanized canopy frame, the boat ensures stability, manoeuvrability, and passenger comfort.
Alberto Wilde, Country Director of Global Communities, hailed the initiative as a significant milestone in advancing water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives in Ghana. He emphasized the Health Voyager's role not just as a vessel but as a symbol of hope, progress, and commitment to community health and well-being.
Dr. Zohra Balsara, Director of Health Population and Nutrition at USAID/Ghana, underscored USAID's commitment to supporting Ghana's health system resilience and preparedness for health emergencies. She highlighted USAID's integrated health programming and recent contributions, including the renovation of a boat in the Volta region and donations of pick-up trucks and motorcycles.
Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, expressed gratitude for the critical assistance provided by the partners. He emphasized the importance of partnerships in managing and establishing Comprehensive Boat Management Services to ensure effective healthcare delivery.
Dr. Osei Kuffour Afreh, Oti Regional Health Director, provided context to the challenges faced by the region, including inadequate health infrastructure and hard-to-reach communities. He welcomed the support from Global Communities, USAID, and other partners, emphasizing the significant impact it would have on healthcare delivery in the region.
