Omanghana
The Embassy of Ghana in Washington, D.C. has called on Ghanaians living abroad to support the construction of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Excellence in the Ashanti Region.
Speaking at the “An Evening for Cure” fundraising gala in the United States, Ghana’s Deputy Head of Mission, Ambassador Jane Gasu Aheto, encouraged individuals, organizations and development partners to contribute towards bringing advanced cancer treatment, diagnosis and medical research closer to patients in Ghana.
“By supporting this Centre, we are not just building a hospital; we are building a legacy of hope, resilience, and humanity,” she said.
The proposed facility will be constructed on donated land at Kwaso, near Kumasi. It is expected to provide comprehensive cancer services covering early screening, diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, clinical training, palliative care and rehabilitation for survivors.
The entire standalone complex is estimated to cost $100 million and will be developed in phases.
The first phase, valued at $10 million, will focus on essential clinical and research infrastructure. It will include a modern radiotherapy suite, medical research wing, Artificial Intelligence Hub, education center and community outreach facilities.
Dr. Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, President of Breast Care International and Founding Director of the center, said Ghana records more than 27,000 new cancer cases and nearly 18,000 related deaths annually.
She identified breast, cervical, prostate and liver cancers as some of the most commonly diagnosed forms of the disease in the country.
Dr. Wiafe-Addai noted that the lack of adequate specialized facilities forces some patients to seek expensive treatment abroad, often exhausting their financial resources in the process. She said establishing an advanced center in Ghana would expand access to quality care while reducing the economic burden on patients and their families.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, was represented at the gala by the Nsutamanhene, Nana Asamoah Sekyere. The royal delegation renewed calls for traditional authorities, diaspora communities, health professionals and international partners to mobilize resources for the project.
Other dignitaries present included the Asante Mamponghemaa, Nana Agyakomaa Difie II, representatives of the Global Health Catalyst Team, the Council of Ghanaian Pastors and Churches, medical professionals and cancer survivors.
Organizers described the proposed center as an important investment in health equity and Ghana’s capacity to provide world-class cancer care, professional training and clinical research.
Source: Omanghana
