Ghana Prisons Service Launches First-Ever Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank in Sekondi
Ghana Prisons Service Launches First-Ever Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank had theTheme: Prison Health Is Public Health
The Ghana Prisons Service, Sekondi, has launched what organisers describe as a first-of-its-kind Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank initiative aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for inmates across the country.
The launch took place on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the Church of Pentecost in Sekondi, in the Western Region, bringing together prison officials, religious leaders, traditional authorities, representatives of security agencies, health professionals and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Director of Prisons (DOP) Abraham called on individuals, philanthropists, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative through financial contributions, medical supplies, equipment and other forms of assistance.
He said the initiative was designed to bring together goodwill and resources to ensure that inmates receive the healthcare they need, regardless of their circumstances.
According to him, the establishment of the Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank would help address some of the healthcare challenges confronting the Ghana Prisons Service while promoting equitable access to medical treatment.
He also appealed to the government to support the initiative, stressing that no inmate should be denied quality healthcare because of a lack of resources.
DOP Abraham further expressed appreciation to Nana Kobina Nketia, the media and all individuals and organisations who supported the launch.
Chairman appeals for collective support
The Chairman of the occasion, Nana Kobina Nketia, expressed gratitude to the organisers and appealed to the media, institutions and individuals to rally behind the initiative.
He reminded participants that nobody knows what tomorrow holds and urged the public to extend a helping hand to people who find themselves in prison.
He encouraged stakeholders to contribute towards improving the welfare and healthcare needs of inmates, describing the initiative as a worthy cause that requires collective responsibility.
Cultural performances add colour to the ceremony
The event was enlivened by cultural performances from the Gye Nyame Cultural Group, which entertained guests with traditional displays.
A Jama group also thrilled participants with energetic performances towards the end of the programme.
Among the dignitaries present were Dr Kofi Shatterland, Guest of Honour, and DOP Ali Ababio, who is in charge of Agriculture.
The Sekondi-Takoradi Mayor, represented by FF Fedo, also encouraged individuals, non-governmental organisations and institutions to support the initiative on behalf of the Western Regional Minister.
Western Regional Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank launched
A major highlight of the ceremony was the launch of the Western Regional Prisons Medicine and Equipment Bank, with support from prison officials and other dignitaries.
Speaking at the event, Rev. Dr Joseph Addo Anderson called for sustained fundraising efforts to support the initiative and announced an initial contribution of GH¢10,000.
He explained that contributions could be made through cheques, mobile money (MoMo), physical cash and other convenient means.
Several individuals and institutions also made financial pledges and donations towards the initiative.
Among the contributions announced were:
- Takwa Central Mosque – GH¢5,000
- Church of Pentecost – GH¢10,000
- Another church contribution – GH¢2,000
- Regional Commander – GH¢2,000
- GSTS – GH¢2,000
- Ghana Police Service – GH¢5,000
- Melku Duka – GH¢5,000
The Chief Imam of Sekondi, the Ghana Immigration Service and other stakeholders were also acknowledged for their support.
Dr Shatterland further appealed to churches to organise fundraising activities every three months and dedicate the proceeds to supporting the Ghana Prisons Service.
He emphasised that support should not be limited to money, but could also include medical equipment, apparatus and other essential healthcare supplies.
Chairman calls out oil companies over absence
In his closing remarks, Nana Kobina Nketia thanked the dignitaries, institutions, religious leaders and everyone who contributed to the successful organisation of the programme.
However, he expressed disappointment over the absence of most oil companies operating in the region, noting that their participation and support would have added value to the initiative.
He therefore appealed for greater involvement from the oil and gas industry, corporate institutions and other stakeholders in supporting prison healthcare.
The programme ended with a Muslim prayer led by the Western Regional Chief Imam.
The launch of the Prison Medicine and Equipment Bank marks a call for stronger collaboration between government, religious organisations, private institutions and individuals to improve healthcare delivery in Ghana's prisons.
As the theme emphasises, prison health is public health, and ensuring that inmates have access to quality healthcare remains a shared responsibility.