The Right Accountability Network Africa (RAN-Africa) has filed a Right to Information (RTI) request with the Ministry of Health. The group seeks comprehensive details on proposed partnerships between the government and private entities to complete the stalled Agenda 111 hospital projects. This formal request, dated August 1, 2026, and signed by RAN-Africa Executive Director Kelvin Gyimah, aims to uncover information on proposals, negotiations, agreements, and financial arrangements involving private investors, faith-based organizations, and other entities.
This action comes amid growing public interest in the government's strategy to involve the private sector in finishing these crucial health infrastructure projects. RAN-Africa specifically requests the identities of all private entities, companies, organizations, religious bodies, foundations, and investors who have expressed interest or been invited to partner on Agenda 111 projects since January 2025. The organization also seeks copies of all submitted proposals, expressions of interest, and related communications. Furthermore, RAN-Africa wants access to any executed or proposed agreements, memoranda of understanding, and public-private partnership instruments. The request also covers the financial structure of each proposed partnership, including expected contributions from both government and private entities.
The Agenda 111 initiative, launched in August 2021 by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, initially aimed to construct 101 district hospitals, six regional hospitals, two psychiatric hospitals, and two specialized hospitals across Ghana. Many of these projects remain incomplete. Their funding and completion have become a significant challenge for the current administration. The government has already invested about GHS 4.8 billion into the projects. However, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh recently disclosed that completing all facilities would require more than GHS 20 billion. The government has adopted a phased approach, prioritizing 35 facilities for completion while exploring private sector involvement for the remaining projects.
RAN-Africa's request follows recent statements by Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, who indicated the government is actively exploring private partnerships. The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church has already submitted a proposal to partner on selected Agenda 111 hospitals, focusing on trauma care, holistic wellness, oncology and cancer treatment, and rehabilitation services. Mr. Akandoh has also appealed to mining companies to complete and equip Agenda 111 facilities within their operational areas. This highlights the government's broad outreach for private sector support.
The RTI application is set against a backdrop of concerns regarding transparency and the protection of public interest in these private participation plans. RAN-Africa emphasizes the need for disclosure of financial and contractual terms of any proposed arrangements. They also seek information on whether private entities could gain ownership, management, or operational control over public health facilities. This transparency is crucial for public accountability and ensuring the projects serve their intended purpose effectively.
RAN-Africa has reminded the Ministry of Health about Section 23(1) of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989). This section mandates an Information Officer to decide on an application and communicate the decision in writing within 14 days of receipt. The organization has requested electronic delivery of the information. The Ministry therefore has a 14-day window to respond, subject to any extensions permitted under the RTI Act. The information, if disclosed, will provide much-needed clarity on the extent of private sector involvement, the financial commitments, and the proposed operational arrangements for the Agenda 111 facilities. This will allow for greater public scrutiny and informed debate on the future of Ghana's healthcare infrastructure.