Birth and death certificate acquisition cumbersome

Dear Editor,

I am concerned about the unsatisfactory service rendered by the Birth and Deaths Registry at some hospitals across the country.

It has been seven months since my brother applied for birth certificate for his daughter at one of the government hospitals in Accra and had since not received the document.

Personnel at the registry were either absent or would postpone dates anytime we went to the hospital to pick the document. Other parents have also complained of the unnecessary delays and excuses in acquiring this important document at other hospitals.

I thought birth certificates should be ready just a few days after a child is born but that is not the case at some institutions. Parents who want the certificate instantly would have to spend money travelling or grease the palm of some people before the document is printed.

I believe it is time the ministry in-charge took a second look at the operations of the Birth and Deaths Registry to make the acquisition of certificates less stressful for citizens.

Last year, I heard the Vice President, Dr. Bawumia suggesting a ‘digital solution’ to this challenge and I want to know the progress made so far.

Matilda Nkoom,

Koforidua.