The Eastern Regional Hospital, in partnership with the Kabaka Foundation, has initiated a major expansion and renovation of its Mental Health Unit to address rising psychiatric cases that have led to overcrowding.
As the only residential psychiatric facility in the Eastern Region, the Unit treats individuals with conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse involving tramadol, cannabis, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, and opioids. It also supports children with special needs, seizure disorders, and learning challenges.
Dr. Gyanwaa Opare-Addo, the Unit’s lead psychiatrist, noted that the facility is overwhelmed by increasing referrals, especially drug-related cases among young people. She explained that prior to her arrival, many cases were sent to Accra, but now the Eastern Regional Hospital handles most of them, resulting in longer patient stays and limited space for movement—factors that hinder recovery.
She expressed optimism about the Kabaka Foundation’s intervention, which will expand bed capacity and create more room for patients to move freely, aiding their healing process.
The renovation, fully financed by the Kabaka Foundation under the leadership of its Chairman and Founder, Nana Owiredu Wadie I, will upgrade the facility with more beds, larger wards, and enhanced safety features.
Dr. Arko Akoto-Ampaw, the hospital’s Medical Director, highlighted the urgency of the project, citing the growing demand for mental health services. He said the expansion will also accommodate outpatient services, thanks to Kabaka Foundation’s support.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Nana Owiredu Wadie I emphasized the importance of compassionate mental health care, stating that the project represents a commitment to youth battling addiction, children with mental health conditions, and families seeking respectful treatment. “Mental health is health,” he affirmed, advocating for stigma-free access to care.
In celebration of his birthday, Nana Owiredu Wadie I also paid GH¢20,000 in medical bills for underprivileged patients and donated food and essential items to patients and staff. The event was attended by notable figures including Otobour Gyan Kwasi II, Chief of Aburi, Nana Kwame Sakyi Ababio II, Chief of Abotakyi, and Eric Yeboah Wadie I, Deputy CEO of the National Lotteries Authority.
Author: Jasmine Adjei
Development journalist
