Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi have halted all surgical procedures indefinitely due to a severe water shortage affecting the facility for over a week.

In a memo dated March 25, 2025, the Komfo Anokye Doctors Association (KADA) informed hospital management of their decision, stressing that it was taken in the interest of patient safety.

"This memo is to formally inform management of the decision taken by the Orthopaedic and Emergency Directorate to temporarily halt the admission of new patients until the availability of water is restored," the statement said.

The doctors highlighted that the prolonged water shortage has significantly disrupted healthcare services, affecting hygiene, surgical operations, and overall patient care.

"Despite efforts to manage the situation, the current lack of water has reached a critical point, compromising both patient safety and healthcare delivery," the memo warned.

Dr. Michael Leat, chairman of KADA, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the suspension but assured that medical staff would continue attending to existing patients.

"We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and kindly request management’s urgent intervention to address the water crisis. The directorates will continue to manage existing patients to the best of our ability while prioritizing safety and hygiene," he said.

KADA further urged management to explore alternative water sources and keep the medical staff updated on efforts to resolve the crisis.

Meanwhile, KATH’s management revealed that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has yet to restore the hospital’s water supply after cutting service last week.

“We are at the moment depending on alternative sources which have proven inadequate due to the huge volumes of water required for our operations daily.

“At the moment, apart from KATH’s own sources, the GNFS, KMA, and the GWCL are assisting with alternative supplies, but they are insufficient to meet our operational needs. We are in constant touch with the Regional office of the GWCL to expedite the repair works which occasioned the cessation of water supply to the hospital,” the Public Relations Directorate explained.