Destroyed Mamfe District Hospital begging for a revival
By Eyongeta Eyong
Mayor Robertson Tabenchong Ashu has issued a heartfelt appeal regarding the dire state of the Mamfe District Hospital, which has struggled to recover since it was destroyed by suspected separatist fighters in 2022. His call for action was made during a one-day working session held in Buea on Thursday September 3, 2024, aimed at facilitating the transfer of resources from the Ministry of Public Health to local councils in the Southwest region.
The meeting brought together all the mayors and regional authorities in the Southwest, focusing on enhancing healthcare delivery and strengthening decentralisation to improve health services at the grassroots level.
In an interview, Mayor Ashu lamented the hospital’s current inadequacies, stating, “As regards the Mamfe District Hospital that was burnt down, we are still lamenting. Up to date, the situation remains unchanged, with only two structures being contracted by the Regional Assembly that do not match the original facility that was destroyed. It’s a challenge because the Mamfe District Hospital used to function as a referral hospital.”
He expressed gratitude towards the Regional Council for its efforts, mentioning, “We thank the Regional Council for allocating resources to the theatre section and the children’s ward. However, we are still looking for more facilities to give that hospital a chance of peace. People are suffering, and people are dying because we don’t have a medical facility in Manyu Division. Most patients are referred to nearby hospitals like Kumba and Limbe.”
Mamfe Mayor, Mayor Robertson Tabenchong Ashu
A Call to the Presidential Plan
In his appeal, Mayor Ashu urged the government to prioritise the reconstruction of the Mamfe District Hospital as part of the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development of Northwest and Southwest Regions. He stressed the urgency of addressing the healthcare needs of the Manyu people, stating; “This hospital needs reconstruction. It is unacceptable for a large Division like Mamfe, especially a border division, to be without a hospital.”
He emphasised the long-standing nature of the issue, remarking, “For how many years has this hospital been burnt down? Two years and counting. I believe that as a mayor, I have been sending messages to the appropriate quarters, writing and doing my best. I trust that when the time comes, the right actions will be taken.”
The ongoing healthcare crisis in Mamfe reflects broader challenges faced by communities in the Division, particularly in the aftermath of conflict. The lack of a functional hospital has left many residents vulnerable, forcing them to seek medical assistance far from home.
Mayor Ashu’s appeal underscores the pressing need for improved healthcare facilities and the urgent reconstruction of the Mamfe District Hospital, which is vital for the well-being of the Manyu Division and its residents.
As the community rallies behind the mayor’s call, hopes are high that government action will lead to the restoration of essential healthcare services in the region.
