The programme, launched at Nkroful, forms part of the national initiative introduced by President John Dramani Mahama to bring quality healthcare closer to communities. Ellembelle is among five districts in the Western Region selected for the pilot phase and was the first district in the region to launch the programme.

Speaking at the launch, the Director of the Ellembelle District Health Directorate, Dr. Augustine Amoako, said the selection of the district followed progress made by the Assemblyand the Health Directorate in improving healthcare delivery.

He said the initiative would help remove financial barriers that prevent some residents from seeking medical attention, particularly in maternal and child healthcare.

Dr. Amoako explained that the programme would be anchored on four key pillars, including an inter-sectoral approach, community participation, appropriate technology and the availability of essential resources. It is expected to improve access to healthcare, strengthen the referral system, ensure the availability of basic medicines and services, and enhance preventive and curative healthcare.

The District Chief Executive, Mr Joseph Armah Agyekum, described access to quality healthcare as a right of the people and reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding affordable and free healthcare services.

The Chief of Ampain, Nana Nyamekeh Fofole, who chaired the ceremony, commended the government for the initiative, saying it would particularly benefit vulnerable residents within the district.

A mobile clinic van was unveiled at the ceremony to commence implementation of the programme and extend healthcare services to communities across Ellembelle