Takoradi, Dec 30, GNA- Mrs Gladys Asmah, Minister of Women and Children's Affairs, on Tuesday cut the sod for work to begin on the construction of a 2.3 billion cedis Emergency and Accident Unit at the Takoradi Hospital.

The project is being undertaken by the Shama-Ahanta East Metropolitan Assembly (SAEMA) to commemorate its centenary celebrations.

She commen ded the SAEMA for initiating the project to complement government's efforts to improve health delivery for the people.

Mrs. Asmah asked the Assembly to consider providing accommodation for nurses who would work at the Unit when it is completed. Mr. Philip Kwesi Nkrumah, the Metropolitan Chief Executive, said the Assembly would use its own resources and its share of the HIPC and Common Funds to finance the project.

Mr. Nkrumah said a doctors' bungalow would be constructed as part of the project.

He said the Assembly is rehabilitating the Shama Health Centre with the view to upgrading it into a hospital.

Dr. Slyvester Anemana, Western Regional Director of Health Services, thanked SAEMA for helping to expand Takoradi Hospital. He said additional staff and facilities would be required to ensure effective functioning of the unit when completed.