Madina Polyclinic-Kekele celebrates 50th anniversary, calls for support to enhance services

Kekele Polyclinic in Madina marked its 50th anniversary with a heartfelt celebration, reflecting on both the challenges and achievements the clinic has experienced over the past five decades.

Established in 1974, Madina Polyclinic-Kekele is one of the largest healthcare facilities in Accra, serving over 30,000 patients annually. It plays a vital role in meeting the health needs of Madina and surrounding communities within the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipality.

During the event, Acting Medical Superintendent Dr. Emmanuel Asante issued an urgent call for support from the government and philanthropists. In his speech, Dr. Asante highlighted the critical need for medical equipment to fully equip the clinic’s operating theatre.

“We are in desperate need of the necessary tools to provide surgical services to the people of Madina and its surrounding areas,” he stated.

“When our needs are met and the required equipment is provided, the clinic will be able to transition from a basic health facility to a provider of comprehensive primary healthcare services.”

Reflecting on the clinic’s history, Dr. Asante acknowledged the numerous challenges faced over the years. “Today marks exactly 50 years since we began operations. We’ve faced many obstacles in delivering quality healthcare, including a lack of equipment. But by God’s grace, we’ve made steady progress. We thank God for this achievement and celebrate the work we’ve done to serve our community,” he expressed.

Although the clinic has designated an area for surgeries, Dr. Asante emphasized that the absence of proper equipment has hindered its ability to serve patients effectively. Despite numerous requests for assistance, including several letters to the government, the clinic continues to wait for the necessary resources to move forward.

In addition to medical equipment, Dr. Asante also called for support to improve the clinic’s infrastructure. “We have written many letters requesting help to pave the clinic’s environment. When it rains, the area becomes muddy, making it difficult for patients and staff to navigate,” he explained.

He urged the government and potential donors to step in and provide pavement blocks to alleviate the situation.

The anniversary celebration, held on Friday, November 15, 2024, was attended by several key figures, including Dr. Priscilla Anima Poku, the Municipal Director of Health Services for the La-Nkwantanang Municipality.

Dr. Poku praised the clinic’s remarkable journey, recounting its humble beginnings in a makeshift container, which led to its affectionate nickname, “Container Plaza.” She highlighted the clinic’s transformation from offering basic maternal and child health services to becoming a comprehensive healthcare facility.

Dr. Poku encouraged the clinic’s management to stay focused on their vision. “With the current leadership, I am confident the clinic will continue to progress from strength to strength. I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to providing excellent healthcare to the people of Madina,” she said.

The event also saw the participation of local leaders and stakeholders, including chiefs, assembly members, market vendors, and others who have supported the clinic over the years. Dr. Poku, on behalf of the polyclinic expressed her gratitude to them for their ongoing contributions.

District Commander of the Madina Police, ASP Precious Agbenorwu, who represented the police command, spoke about the positive collaboration between the clinic and the police. He also addressed the upcoming national elections, urging the youth to avoid violence.

“Elections are not wars, and we should not allow any politician to incite chaos,” he stated. He encouraged young people to learn from the tragic consequences of conflicts in countries like Somalia, Rwanda, and Sudan, emphasising the importance of peace.