By Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has clarified the role of tricycles distributed under the Free Primary Health Care programme, stating that they are not ambulances but purpose-built vehicles to support health workers and volunteers in delivering essential services at the community level.
The President was speaking at Bimbilla in the Northern Region during the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of a 24-hour economy model market which aims to boost Agro-Trade.
He explained that the tricycles are fitted with compartments designed to safely transport vaccines while maintaining the cold chain, and will be used for vaccination campaigns, routine health screenings and the early detection of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The vehicles are expected to improve access to healthcare, particularly in remote and underserved communities where access to health facilities remains limited.
President Mahama added that in areas where terrain and conditions permit, motorcycles will be provided to support similar outreach services, while tricycles will be deployed in communities where the use of motorcycles is not feasible.
He emphasised that ambulances remain solely designated for emergency medical transport, dismissing suggestions that the tricycles are being used as substitutes.
According to him, the vehicles are strictly intended for outreach, preventive care and community health engagement, forming a key component of the Free Primary Health Care programme’s focus on early intervention and expanded access.
