In a major boost to healthcare access within the correctional system, the Osagyefo Kpolly Armah Foundation has officially handed over a fully renovated and air-conditioned infirmary to the Ghana Prisons Service at the Kumasi Female Prison.
The initiative originated during an official visit by the Ashanti Regional Minister, who identified the critical need for an upgraded medical center within the facility.
Philanthropist Peter Kpolly Armah, founder of the NGO, subsequently stepped in to fully fund the renovation and medical re-equipping for the benefit of the facility’s 36 female inmates and station officers.
Prison Welfare:
The newly commissioned facility was officially unveiled in a joint ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene; the Ashanti Regional Prisons Commander, Deputy Director of Prisons (DDP) James B. Mwinyelle; and benefactor Peter Armah.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Amoakohene praised the foundation’s intervention and appealed to corporate institutions, civil society organizations, and private individuals to support the Ghana Prisons Service in improving living conditions for inmates nationwide.
He encouraged the inmates to maintain good conduct, highlighting ongoing government interventions aimed at improving welfare, including the recent upward revision of daily inmate feeding allowances from GH₵1.80 to GH₵5.00.
“Government has not forgotten you,” Dr. Amoakohene assured the inmates.
He added that, “This year, six individuals from this female cell block will receive a presidential pardon, and I am pleased with your continued good behavior. I trust this infirmary will cater to your health needs, ensuring you remain in good health throughout your time here.”
In-House Medical Care:
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the administration, DDP James B. Mwinyelle emphasized the importance of accessible, on-site healthcare for both inmates and prison officers.
He commended the Regional Minister for driving the partnership and facilitating the foundation’s funding.
“It is gratifying to see the Regional Minister lead an initiative that directly addresses the health needs of inmates and officers,” DDP Mwinyelle stated.
He stressed that, “It is my hope that Mr. Peter Kpolly Armah’s gesture inspires other public-spirited individuals and organizations to visit our facilities and assist where needed.”
Benefactor:
Speaking to journalists following the ceremony, Mr. Peter Armah expressed appreciation to the Ashanti Regional Minister and prison authorities for their cooperation throughout the execution of the project.
He urged management to ensure a strict maintenance culture to preserve the facility for long-term utility.
“As a foundation, we will conduct periodic visits to monitor the upkeep of this facility,” Armah noted.
He noted, “This will guide our decision-making regarding future infrastructure support for the prison authorities.”
Enhanced Facility:
The renovated one-storey medical unit has been transformed into a modern treatment center designed to facilitate rapid diagnosis and routine patient care.
Key additions and upgrades include:
Climate Control:
Full air-conditioning system to ensure patient comfort and proper medicine storage.
Medical Furnishings:
Two hospital beds, privacy ward screens, and dedicated medical supply shelving units.
Clinical Equipment & Supplies: Diagnostic tools, essential pharmaceuticals, and a dedicated injection station.
Sanitation:
Integrated private washroom facilities tailored for clinical hygiene.
Story by Michael Ofosu-Afriyie,
Kumasi
