Businessman and philanthropist Seidu Agongo
Businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo is undertaking renovation works at the Child Emergency Out-Patient Department (OPD) of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, a facility he single-handedly constructed and gifted to the hospital in 2018.
As part of his Ramadan Donation Initiative, the Ghanaian businessman is overseeing the repainting of the OPD block and ensuring that all air conditioning units are fully operational.
The move, Mr. Agongo explained on Facebook, is aimed at creating a more conducive environment for mothers, babies, and hospital staff.
“Beyond the fresh coat for the lovely children, I am ensuring that all air conditioning units are fully operational to create a more conducive environment for both mothers who have given birth and the hardworking staff,” he said. “Hopefully, it helps to comfort the innocent babies and children while they undergo treatment.”
Mr. Agongo constructed the 30-bed block at a cost of GH¢857,000 and handed it over to the hospital in 2019.
The philanthropist was moved to take action after a visit to the hospital in 2017, where he witnessed the dire conditions in which newborns and their mothers were receiving care.
He recounted how he saw four babies sharing a single cot meant for one, with many mothers and infants forced to endure overcrowded conditions.
When a staff member jokingly asked if he would build them a new block, Mr. Agongo took the idea seriously and later reached out to the unit to formalize his offer.
Reflecting on his motivation for philanthropy, he said, “In this Ramadan month of prayer, fasting, and reflection, we are reminded that giving is not just about what we share with those we know but the impact we make in the lives of all of Allah’s creations.”
His latest act of generosity underscores his ongoing commitment to improving healthcare for vulnerable groups, particularly children and mothers, and ensuring that the facility continues to serve its purpose in a dignified and comfortable environment.