Editorial
Create harmonised pricing structure across nation
Dear Editor,
Observing the current state of our nation, I cannot help but be deeply concerned about the evident instability in the prices of goods and commodities. Right off the bat, it is apparent that the cost of living, especially when it comes to essential items, varies significantly from one region to another.
The disparities in the prices of food items across Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, Koforidua, and other places are like a cat on a hot tin roof — a matter of heated discussion within our communities. Sadly, despite the prevalent discourse, there seems to be a lack of effective action to address this issue.
Notably, when considering housing expenses, the rental costs for a single accommodation, which might be priced at GhȻ250 in Kumasi or Koforidua, do not align with the rates in Accra. It is disheartening that the preferred alternative is often an exorbitant GhȻ400, which does not serve the best interests of the populace.
Similarly, the discrepancy in the pricing of household gadgets is striking. A home appliance that could be purchased for GhȻ600 in Kumasi, Koforidua, or other places, commands a different, likely higher, price tag in Accra.
I earnestly hope that the authorities take swift action to implement measures that will bring about stability in market prices. A harmonised pricing structure across the nation would not only alleviate the burden on citizens but also contribute to a more equitable and prosperous Ghana.
It is my sincere wish that steps are taken towards creating a uniform pricing system, ensuring that the cost of an item in Accra is consistent throughout the entire country.
Joshua Mantey
Obuasi
Editorial
Kudos to Ho Teaching Hospital staff, but …
Dear Editor,
If there is any group of professionals that get bad-mouthed the most, then you are referring to nurses and medical doctors assigned to public hospitals across the country.
For this particular letter, I want to sing the praises of this same group of professionals that work at the Ho Teaching Hospital, famously known as Trafalgar.
Despite the work load and the mass casualties received at the emergency ward of the hospital, the welcoming nature of the nurses and the professional touch by the doctors can’t be ignored. My personal experience has got me travelling from my base in Accra to seek medical services from these professionals.
Special mention has to be made of the likes of Precious of the Pharmacy Department, Dr Brandon Banor (a maxillofacial resident) of the Dental unit, male nurse Justice assigned to the female surgical ward. Words cannot really do justice to their affable, professional caring nature. A simple thank you is all that I can say.
In the same vein, I can’t but call out the bad attitude of the auxiliary staff and contractors of the hospital.
Chief among them is some of the contracted bank staff that handle the payment section of the hospital and the patient registration section (those that check the status of the patient as to whether they are fee paying patients or NHIS sponsored).
The attitude at times leaves a bad taste in the mouth. One such occurrence was a night staff of the registration section who had her legs on the office table whilst talking to patients.
The CEO of the hospital needs to shine his torch light on this support sections before they erode the awesome performance of the direct medical staff of the hospital.
Thank you for the space.
Kwesi Manu
Accra
Editorial
Develop policies to address disability concerns
Dear Editor,
AT the beginning of the year, when I went to the bank to deposit money into my uncle’s account, I observed a very sad situation where a man in a wheelchair struggled to navigate his way around the facility.
This is because the structure is disability unfriendly.
As I stood and watched how the man struggled to move his wheelchair, I felt sad and wondered if this is how the life of a disabled person should be. It becomes worse if there is no one to offer help.
In Ghana, People With Disabilities (PWDs) are often treated differently and are often subjected to all forms of discrimination.
Most of these people find themselves in such a situation as a result of unfortunate happenings such as accidents and injuries.
It is, therefore, not appropriate for anyone to discriminate against them. Discrimination against such persons take many forms, including how buildings are constructed.
Most of the public structures are not disability friendly and impede their movement.
As a country, we should consider the PWDs in designing our structures. I also think that there should be a national policy that seeks to address this issue.
I have a strong conviction that when such a policy is developed by the government, people with disabilities would feel appreciated and also promote social inclusivity.
Ray,
Kasoa
