Kingsley Agyemang calls for urgent assessment of Ebola isolation centres

Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, has urged the government to take immediate steps to bolster Ghana’s public health emergency preparedness following the confirmation of an Ebola case in Nigeria. In a formal appeal to the Ministry of Health, the lawmaker emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of isolation and treatment facilities across the country to ensure they are ready to handle potential infections. His call reflects growing concerns over the ability of the national health system to respond swiftly to a domestic outbreak.

The urgency of the appeal stems from reports that the Ebola strain identified in Nigeria is linked to a strain previously found in Kenya, highlighting the persistent threat of cross-border disease transmission. Dr. Agyemang stressed that while no cases have been confirmed within Ghana, the proximity of the outbreak necessitates the activation of rapid response teams and the enhancement of disease surveillance at all entry points. He also recommended that the Ministry prioritize the distribution of sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and provide practical, hands-on training for frontline healthcare workers to prevent hospital-based transmission.

Beyond immediate logistical readiness, the Abuakwa South MP called for greater transparency regarding the status of health emergency funds. He challenged the government to provide clear updates on the improvements made to the national health security infrastructure since March 2026. While acknowledging that the current screening and prevention measures at Kotoka International Airport are commendable, Dr. Agyemang warned that the state must not become complacent, as the effectiveness of the national response depends on the operational readiness of health facilities throughout the country.