Paramount Chief of Gbi Traditional Area Labels Volta Regional Hospital a “Death Trap,” Demands Urgent Upgrade
Togbega Gabusu VII, Paramount Chief of the Gbi Traditional Area, has strongly criticised the Volta Regional Hospital in Hohoe, calling it a “death trap” despite its upgrade from municipal to regional status.
During a working visit to the facility on Wednesday, March 4, the traditional ruler expressed deep disappointment that the change in designation has not been matched by meaningful improvements in infrastructure, medical equipment or staffing.
He pointed out that several critical departments still operate with outdated tools, overcrowded wards and overstretched facilities — conditions he said put both patients and health workers at serious risk.
“Although the hospital now serves as a regional referral centre, much of the infrastructure remains the same as when it was a municipal hospital,” Togbega Gabusu said. “This situation is unacceptable and endangers lives every single day.”
The chief warned that without immediate intervention, the hospital’s ability to deliver effective care will continue to deteriorate, especially as the region’s population grows and demand for specialised services increases.
He made a direct appeal to the government to prioritise the provision of modern medical equipment, ward expansion, and overall infrastructure upgrades so the facility can truly function at the level expected of a regional hospital.
The Administrator of the Volta Regional Hospital, Divine Akie, acknowledged the challenges during the visit. He confirmed that the hospital currently lacks a dedicated surgical ward and an Intensive Care Unit — major setbacks for a facility of its status.
Mr Akie joined the call for urgent support, stressing that the gaps in infrastructure, equipment and human resources prevent the hospital from meeting the needs of patients referred from across the region.
The concerns raised by Togbega Gabusu VII and the hospital administration have renewed public attention on the state of healthcare facilities in the Volta Region. Many residents and health workers have long complained about under-resourcing, frequent equipment breakdowns and long waiting times for basic and specialised care.
