Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have suspended all surgical procedures indefinitely due to a severe water shortage that has plagued the facility since last week.
In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) informed hospital management that the decision was made in the best interest of patient safety.
“This memo is to formally notify management that the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate has temporarily halted the admission of new patients until water supply is restored,” the statement read.
The Association cited significant challenges caused by the ongoing water crisis, which has severely impacted essential healthcare services. Doctors emphasized that water is crucial for maintaining hygiene, performing surgeries, and ensuring overall patient care, yet the current shortage has compromised these critical operations.
“Despite efforts to manage the situation, the lack of water has reached a critical point, endangering patient safety and healthcare delivery,” the memo added.
Chairman of KADA, Dr. Michael Leat, apologized for the inconvenience caused by the suspension but assured that doctors would continue to manage existing cases.
“We sincerely regret any disruption this may cause and urge management to take immediate action to resolve the crisis. Meanwhile, our directorates will do their best to care for existing patients while prioritizing safety and hygiene,” he stated.
KADA further called for urgent alternative water supply solutions and requested regular updates on efforts to restore the facility’s water supply.
Meanwhile, KATH management explained that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has yet to resume water supply to the hospital since service was disrupted last week.
“We are currently relying on alternative sources, but these have proven insufficient given the hospital’s high daily water demand. While KATH’s internal reserves, along with support from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), and GWCL, have provided some relief, it remains inadequate for full operations,” the hospital’s Public Relations Directorate stated.
Management assured that they are in constant communication with GWCL’s regional office to expedite repairs and restore normal water supply as soon as possible.