Health Update: Love Without Walls Commissions Children’s Medical and Wellness Center in Suhum – What Experts Say

A state-of-the-art Children’s Medical and Wellness Center has been commissioned at the Suhum Municipal Hospital, marking a significant advancement in pediatric healthcare delivery in the municipality and surrounding communities.

The facility, fully funded, constructed, and donated at no cost to the Government of Ghana and the people of Suhum by Love Without Walls, is expected to transform child healthcare services in the area. The organisation, an all-volunteer non-profit, focuses on supporting disadvantaged children worldwide.

The newly commissioned center replaces an outdated 24-bed children’s ward that previously served a population of more than 180,000 residents.

Health authorities say the modern facility will improve access to quality pediatric care, reduce congestion, and provide a more dignified and efficient environment for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Beyond infrastructure, the project represents a strategic intervention aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery at the municipal level, where access to specialised pediatric services is often limited.

Vision rooted in compassion

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Love Without Walls, Dr. Hartford Dawson, said the initiative was inspired by his visit to the hospital’s children’s ward in 2014.

Born in Jamaica and later migrating to the United States, he recounted how the conditions he witnessed left a lasting impression on him. “I saw the need, I saw the lack of space, and I felt the pain of the children,” he said.

Determined to make a difference, Dr. Dawson noted that the organisation mobilised resources over a 12-month period, raising $340,000 to fund the construction, procure high-density beds, install air-conditioning, and equip the facility with modern medical infrastructure.

He emphasised that the intervention goes beyond a one-time donation, assuring continued support for the hospital and the community.

“This is a gift that must be cherished. We are not walking away—we will continue to support the hospital and the children of Suhum,” he added.

Health authorities highlight impact

The Deputy Director of Clinical Care at the Ghana Health Service in the Eastern Region, Dr. Samuel Borlabi, speaking on behalf of the Eastern Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Damien Punguyire, commended the initiative and underscored the importance of maintaining the facility.

He described the project as a clear demonstration of commitment and collaboration, noting that it will significantly expand pediatric care capacity, reduce unnecessary referrals, and improve working conditions for health professionals.

“Child health remains a top priority. Access to quality pediatric care at the municipal and district level is not a luxury it is life-saving. This facility is strategy made visible and a model that must be preserved,” he said.

The Member of Parliament for Suhum Constituency, Hon. Frank Asiedu Bekoe, commended Love Without Walls for its contribution to healthcare delivery following the commissioning of a Children’s Medical and Wellness Center at the Suhum Municipal Hospital.

He cited the project as a significant intervention that will improve pediatric care in the municipality and surrounding communities.

Hon. Asiedu Bekoe praised the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Love Without Walls, Dr. Hartford Dawson, for his commitment to supporting child health, noting that the initiative demonstrates the impact of international collaboration.

He also acknowledged the challenges encountered during the execution of the project and lauded the organisation for its perseverance in completing the facility.

The MP called for greater support for humanitarian initiatives, urging stakeholders to create an enabling environment for individuals and organisations contributing to national development.

He assured that the facility would be properly maintained to serve its intended purpose.

Local authorities welcome development

The Municipal Chief Executive for Suhum, Hon. Lydia Ohenewa, described the center as a timely intervention that will ease pressure on existing healthcare facilities and enhance service delivery.

She noted that the project would contribute to improved health outcomes for children across the municipality while leaving a lasting legacy.

“This project demonstrates true humility and investment in the health and well-being of our children,” she stated.

The MCE expressed gratitude to Love Without Walls  and commended the Ghana Health Service, the Municipal Health Directorate, hospital management, contractors, and volunteers for their collaborative efforts in delivering the project.

She also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and called for sustained support from development partners.

Traditional leadership calls for ownership

The Paramount Chief of the Suhum Traditional Area, Osabarima Ayeh Kofi, described the facility as a generational investment that must be protected and maintained.

“This work is for generations, and we must hold it in our hearts. May this facility ensure that no child in Suhum is left without care,” he said. He urged the community to take ownership of the facility to ensure its sustainability.

Global solidarity underscored

The Member of Parliament for North St. Catherine in Jamaica, Hon. Natalie Neita Garvey, highlighted the broader significance of the project, describing it as a symbol of global solidarity and shared responsibility.

She said the initiative reflects compassion, faith, and selfless service, while also strengthening ties among people of African descent.

“Today, we are celebrating not only a children’s wellness center, but the power of giving and the impact of selfless service,” she said, urging residents to value and maintain the facility.

A model for partnership

The commissioning of the Children’s Medical and Wellness Center underscores the impact of collaboration between philanthropic organisations, government agencies, and traditional authorities in addressing critical healthcare needs.

The facility is expected to significantly improve child health outcomes, enhance working conditions for healthcare providers, and serve as a model for effective public-private partnership in Ghana’s health sector. It stands as a testament to how vision, commitment, and sustained collaboration can transform healthcare delivery and improve lives.