Central Tongu grapples with emergency healthcare challenge as ambulance remains grounded
Emergency healthcare delivery in the Central Tongu District of the Volta Region is facing increasing pressure as the district’s only ambulance remains out of service months after suffering a mechanical breakdown.
The prolonged unavailability of the ambulance, with registration number GV 20-20, has raised concerns among residents and local authorities over the district’s capacity to respond effectively to medical emergencies, including maternal cases, accidents and referrals to higher-level health facilities.
Mr Guggisberg Fiagbenu, Assembly Member for the Adidome Central Electoral Area, has consequently appealed to the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr Dodzi Addison Mornyuie, to facilitate the immediate repair and restoration of the vehicle to active service.
In a petition copied to Mr Alexander Roosevelt Hotordze, Member of Parliament for the Central Tongu Constituency, Mr Fiagbenu described the situation as a major setback to healthcare delivery and emergency response within the district.
He said the ambulance broke down on March 31, 2026, and had since remained grounded, leaving many communities, particularly those in remote areas, vulnerable during medical emergencies.
“The absence of the ambulance has created significant challenges in transporting critically ill patients and handling emergency referrals. Rapid access to emergency medical services is essential to saving lives, and the current situation leaves many residents exposed to avoidable risks,” he stated.
Mr Fiagbenu expressed concern that delays in restoring the ambulance could undermine efforts by health authorities and the District Assembly to improve healthcare accessibility and emergency preparedness.
He therefore urged the District Assembly to prioritise the repair of the ambulance and ensure its prompt return to operation in the interest of public health and safety.
“The health and wellbeing of our people must remain paramount. Restoring the ambulance to service is not merely a logistical matter but a critical intervention to protect lives and strengthen confidence in our healthcare system,” he added.
The Assembly Member also pledged his support towards efforts aimed at finding a lasting and sustainable solution to the challenge.
The appeal comes amid growing public concern over emergency healthcare accessibility in the district, with residents calling for urgent intervention to strengthen emergency medical response services and safeguard lives.
Story by Kekeli Blamey
