Overview
Biakoye District, established in May 2011 after being carved from Jasikan District, is situated in the southern belt of the newly created Oti Region of Ghana. The district is strategically bordered by Krachi East to the north, Kpando/Hohoe to the south, Jasikan to the east, and Volta Lake to the west. Biakoye District is home to 112 communities, with 48 being island and peninsular communities, reflecting its diverse geographical landscape.
demographics and ethnicity
The district is a melting pot of cultures, comprising five main ethnic groups and traditional councils: Nkonya, Bowiri, Tapa, Worawora, and Apeso. In addition, there are minority groups including Ewe, Ga-Adangbe, Fanti, Fulani, Hausa, Ashanti, and several smaller ethnic communities. The population of the district stands at 76,445 as of December 2023.
transportation and economy
The primary means of transportation within Biakoye District is by road, complemented by water transport utilizing canoes and boats, particularly vital for the island and peninsular communities. The district’s economy is predominantly agrarian, with farming being the main occupation (55%), followed by fishing (20%), trading (20%), and other jobs (5%).
Religion and culture
Religious practices in the district are diverse, with Christianity and traditional religions being the most prevalent. Islam is practiced by a minority of the population. This religious diversity is mirrored in the cultural practices and festivities celebrated across the district.
geography and environment
The district’s terrain consists of semi-deciduous forest and savannah, contributing to its agricultural productivity. The natural environment supports a variety of crops and livestock, integral to the district’s economic activities.
health infrastructure and service
Biakoye District is committed to providing accessible and quality healthcare to its residents and visitors. The healthcare infrastructure includes:
• 1 Hospital
• 5 Health Centres
• 22 CHPS Zones and Compounds
health administration and staffing
The district’s health sector is organized into five sub-districts for administrative purposes: Nkonya, Kwamikrom, Abotoase, Bowiri, and Worawora. For effective implementation of health programs, the district is further zoned into six areas: Nkonya, Kwamikrom, Abotoase, Bowiri, Overbank, and Worawora.
As of December 2023, Biakoye District boasts a robust healthcare workforce of 562 staff members, including medical doctors, pharmacists, various categories of nurses (general, community health, public health, and anaesthetic), public health officers, health data managers, and health service administrators. Supporting staff such as accountants also play crucial roles in the efficient running of the district’s health services.
mission
The mission of Biakoye District Health Service is to ensure affordable and quality healthcare for all people within and around the catchment area. This mission is driven by a vision to maximize the healthy and productive lives of the district’s inhabitants and all those who seek healthcare within the district, contributing to the overall well-being of Ghanaians.
conclusion
Since its inception, Biakoye District has made significant strides in enhancing healthcare delivery despite its diverse and challenging geographical landscape. The district’s commitment to health, coupled with its diverse cultural heritage and robust healthcare infrastructure, positions it as a vital component of Ghana’s health service framework. The continued focus on quality, accessibility, and comprehensive healthcare services promises a healthier and more prosperous future for all residents and visitors of Biakoye District.
