Accra, Ghana — The Mortuaries and Funeral Facilities Agency (MoFFA) has initiated a two-day enforcement exercise in the Eastern Region, resulting in the partial closure of several mortuaries for operating without proper licenses or failing to meet basic environmental and safety standards. The operation aims to safeguard public health and ensure the dignified handling of the deceased.
Among the facilities sanctioned was the Suhum Government Hospital Mortuary, temporarily shut down due to non-compliance, severe overcrowding, and “unacceptable and hazardous” conditions, including mangled bodies, strong odours, blood stains, and serum on floors. Similarly, the Adom Funeral Home Mortuary at Berekumaso was cited for poor sanitation, stagnant water, and lack of essential equipment like a standby generator and Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs).
The Asamankese Government Hospital Mortuary also recorded unsatisfactory sanitation levels and non-compliance. In addition, the Kwahu Government Hospital Mortuary in Atibie, though registered, was shut down after inspectors found poor sanitation and parts of the area converted into a farming space. CHAD Medical Services Mortuary in Osino was also temporarily closed as it lacked a valid operating license. At Great Consolidated Diamonds Ghana Limited (GCDGL), the mortuary was found locked with the attendant missing, and the environment was described as unkempt and poorly maintained.
MoFFA Registrar, Mr. Francis Ennin, stated that the affected facilities had been previously notified and given two months to rectify their shortcomings but failed to comply. He emphasized that the inspections focused on sanitation, waste disposal, utility supply, arrangement of bodies, and PPE availability. Mr. Ennin warned that non-compliant facilities would be surcharged and monitored, urging all owners to register with the agency. Facilities that are partially closed are prohibited from receiving new bodies, though families may retrieve remains already in storage.
The nationwide enforcement drive is set to continue as MoFFA seeks to license, regulate, and monitor all establishments involved in handling human remains under the mandate of the Health Institutions and Facilities Act 829.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
