The Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) has urged financial institutions to support the refurbishment of the Child Health Department at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. This call aims to improve care for children, particularly those suffering from childhood cancers.
GEXIM’s appeal came after it donated medical equipment and supplies valued at GHS 200,000 to the hospital on Tuesday, October 13. This donation formed part of the bank’s 10th-anniversary celebrations. The visit revealed significant infrastructure deficiencies within the department, prompting the broader call for support from the banking sector.
This initiative highlights the growing role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) within Ghana's financial sector. While GEXIM’s primary mandate focuses on financing export businesses, this action demonstrates a commitment to community support. Such interventions are crucial for public health infrastructure, which often faces funding gaps. The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, as Ghana’s premier medical facility, receives referrals from all ten regions and neighboring West African countries.
Emma Nancy Mullen, Deputy Head of Legal at GEXIM and President of the bank’s Ladies Association, made the appeal. She stated, “The whole building needs refurbishment and renovation, so we would come back, we would engage Korle-Bu to see what we can do.” Ms. Mullen stressed the importance of collective effort, urging other banks to join GEXIM in developing the center into a first-class healthcare provider.
The collective support from financial institutions could significantly accelerate the much-needed upgrade of the Child Health Department. This refurbishment would enhance Ghana’s capacity to provide specialized pediatric care, potentially reducing child mortality rates. Decision-makers in the banking sector will now consider how to respond to this call, balancing their commercial objectives with social impact. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for future collaborations between financial institutions and public health facilities.
Papa Kwadwo Abebrese, Deputy Manager of Corporate Banking and President of GEXIM’s Men’s Association, confirmed the donated items were selected based on hospital requests. The equipment included patient monitors, defibrillators, an examination table, an oxygen cylinder, and an emergency stretcher. He acknowledged that while the GHS 200,000 donation addresses immediate needs, more extensive support remains essential for a full renovation. This ongoing need underscores the scale of investment required for modernizing key national health facilities. The engagement between GEXIM and Korle-Bu management will determine the scope and timeline for future support. This collaboration could attract further private sector investment into critical public services.