Minister-designate for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has assured that he will not arbitrarily terminate contracts within the health sector when given the nod.
He made this statement while appearing before the Appointments Committee for his vetting on Friday, January 31.
Addressing concerns about contractual agreements in the health sector, Mr Akandoh emphasised the critical role of the private sector in national development.
"Mr Chairman, we all know the private sector is the engine of growth, and I am not prepared to capriciously terminate any contract in the sector," he stated.
However, he noted that while he would not act impulsively, he would not hesitate to scrutinise agreements where necessary.
"When there is the need for me to look into something, I will," he added, suggesting a balanced approach to oversight and accountability in his ministry.
He also vowed to investigate the controversial contract for ambulance spare parts and maintenance if confirmed by Parliament.
“For the spare parts and the contract with the company maintaining Ghana’s ambulances, I have received a briefing on the issue. If approved by the committee, I am determined to investigate this matter thoroughly,” he stated.
The nominee disclosed that the same company was awarded a contract to procure 307 ambulances for $41 million.
However, he found it alarming that a subsequent five-year maintenance contract for the same fleet had been signed at a staggering $77 million—nearly double the initial cost of procurement.
“This company was contracted to purchase 307 ambulances for $41 million. However, I have seen a contract showing that the ministry later signed a maintenance agreement worth $77 million over five years. The rate of vehicle deterioration does not justify such an amount. I intend to launch an investigation into this arrangement,“ Mr. Akandoh said.