NAS Western North Region Engages Asawinso-A Community Ahead of Ambulance Service Expansion
The Western North Regional Directorate of the National Ambulance Service (NAS) has held a strategic engagement with traditional authorities, the Assembly Member, and key stakeholders of the Sefwi Asawinso-A community as part of a service feasibility tour aimed at expanding emergency medical coverage.
The engagement follows the announcement by the Chief Executive Officer of the National Ambulance Service regarding government’s decision to strengthen emergency medical services nationwide through the procurement of 400 new ambulances and 500 motorbikes. The initiative is expected to significantly improve emergency response capacity and service coverage across the country, including the Western North Region.
The meeting sought the community’s commitment to provide office space and residential accommodation, as Asawinso-A has been identified as a potential beneficiary under the ambulance station expansion programme.
Addressing the gathering, the Acting Western North Regional Manager of the National Ambulance Service, DCAEMT James Hackman, highlighted the strategic importance of Asawinso-A to emergency medical operations in the region. He explained that the town’s geographical location makes it a critical point for improving ambulance response times due to its role as a key transport hub linking several major towns.
According to him, Asawinso A is connected by major road networks to Ayamfuri, Obuasi, Wassa Akropong, Asankraguaa, Sefwi Wiawso, Goaso, and Nyinahin, positioning it as an ideal location for efficient ambulance deployment within the region.
Mr. Hackman further noted that while small-scale mining remains a major economic activity in the area, ongoing plans for the establishment of a bauxite refinery in the community could transform Asawinso A into a significant industrial hub in the future.
He emphasized that establishing an ambulance station in the community would significantly reduce emergency response times and improve patient outcomes. He therefore appealed to stakeholders to support the initiative by providing the necessary office space and residential accommodation for ambulance personnel.
Responding to the appeal, the Chief of Asawinso A, Nana Akwasi Ayim III, speaking through the Assembly Member for the Asawinso A Electoral Area, Mr. Nelson Frank Ackah, welcomed the decision to include the community in the ambulance expansion programme. He assured the Service of the full support of the traditional authority and the community, pledging their readiness to provide the required resources to facilitate the establishment of the ambulance station.
