Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have announced the immediate suspension of all surgical cases due to an ongoing water shortage that has plagued the hospital since last week.
In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) informed hospital management that the decision was necessary to ensure patient safety and maintain healthcare standards.
The Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate has also temporarily halted the admission of new patients until water supply is restored.
According to KADA, the severe water shortage has significantly affected essential healthcare services, including hygiene maintenance and surgical procedures.
“Despite efforts to manage the situation, the current lack of water has reached a critical point, compromising both patient safety and healthcare delivery,” the memo stated.
KADA Chairman, Dr. Michael Leat, apologized for the impact of the suspension, assuring that existing patients would continue to receive care while urging management to find immediate solutions.
“We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly request management’s urgent intervention to address the water crisis,” he said.
Meanwhile, KATH management has attributed the crisis to an unresolved service disruption by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). According to the hospital’s Public Relations Directorate, KATH has been relying on alternative sources, including assistance from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) and the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), but these measures have proven inadequate.
“We are in constant touch with the Regional office of the GWCL to expedite the repair works which occasioned the cessation of water supply to the hospital,” management stated, emphasizing the urgent need for a lasting solution to restore normal operations.
