Ghana is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and natural beauty. But it also faces many challenges, such as poverty, poor infrastructure, and environmental degradation. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of access to quality health care and sanitation for many of its citizens.
That’s why the achievements of Patrick Kwesi Brako Kumor, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Weija-Gbawe, are so remarkable. He recently won the coveted African Public Service Optimum (APSO) Award in Health and Sanitation, a prestigious recognition for his outstanding contributions to improving the lives of his constituents.
The APSO Award, organized by Business Executive Limited, is an annual event that honors high-caliber professionals within public institutions, agencies, and state-owned enterprises across Africa. It aims to promote excellence and innovation in the public sector and to showcase the continent’s potential as a global partner.
Kumor, who is fondly called MCE PKB Kumor, received the award at a ceremony held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, Ghana, on Friday, December 15, 2023. He was among several renowned individuals from various sectors who were celebrated for their exceptional work.
A Visionary Leader with a Passion for Service
In his acceptance speech, Kumor expressed his gratitude to Health Campaign Ghana (HCG), the organization that nominated him for the award. He also thanked the Member of Parliament for the Weija-Gbawe constituency, Tina Naa Ayeley Mensah, for her unwavering support to the assembly throughout his tenure.
“I am incredibly humbled and grateful for winning this continental accolade! This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the invaluable contribution of every individual who believed in my vision and relentlessly worked to translate it into reality,” he said.
According to a report by Daily Graphic, he further motivated his dedicated team to leverage this momentum to achieve even greater heights in the future.
Kumor, who has been the MCE of Weija-Gbawe since 2021, has the vision to make his municipality a model of development and governance in Ghana and beyond. He has implemented various initiatives and projects that have improved the health and sanitation situation in his area.
A Trailblazer in Health and Sanitation
One of the key factors that led to Kumor’s APSO Award win was his remarkable performance in the health sector. Under his leadership, the municipality has constructed seven health facilities, including a state-of-the-art 40-bed children’s hospital, during his administration.
These facilities have enhanced the accessibility and quality of healthcare services for the residents of Weija-Gbawe, especially during the pandemic, when the municipality was one of the epicenters in the country.
Kumor has also invested in equipping and training health workers, providing ambulances and medical supplies, and promoting health education and awareness campaigns.
In the realm of sanitation, Kumor has shown his commitment to making his municipality clean and green. He has overseen the prudent management of proper waste disposal systems, providing litter bins to minimize indiscriminate waste dumping, organizing monthly clean-up exercises, and championing “Operation Clean Your Frontage,” an initiative introduced by the Regional Minister, Henry Quartey.
Kumor has also spearheaded the planting of trees and flowers, the construction of drainage systems and public toilets, and the enforcement of sanitation laws and regulations.
A Role Model for Africa and the World
Kumor’s APSO Award is not only a testament to his achievements but also a reflection of the progress and potential of Ghana and Africa as a whole. He is an inspiration for other public servants and leaders who aspire to make a positive difference in their communities and countries.
As he continues to serve his people with passion and integrity, Kumor hopes to share his best practices and experiences with other municipalities and regions in Ghana and beyond. He also hopes to collaborate with other stakeholders and partners to address the common challenges and opportunities facing the continent.
Kumor’s story is one of hope and transformation. It shows that with vision, dedication, and innovation, anything is possible. It also shows that Africa has a lot to offer to the world and that the world has a lot to learn from Africa.
