Field Visit REPORT
Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
1. Location
- Country: Togo
- Region: Plateaux
- Prefecture: Kpélé
- Canton: Akata
- Village: Kpétassi
2. Mission Background
As part of a field assessment, a site visit was conducted in the village
of Kpétassi to evaluate the operating conditions of an existing rural health
unit and assess its ability to meet the healthcare needs of the surrounding
communities.
3. Mission Objectives
The objectives of the mission were to:
- Conduct a comprehensive site
assessment;
- Evaluate the primary healthcare
needs of the rural population;
- Assess the operational capacity
and service delivery of the existing health unit.
4. Site Assessment
Kpétassi is located approximately 7 kilometers from the canton of Akata
and the nearest paved road. The village is accessible via an improved dirt road
and has a relatively low population density.
Despite its rural location and relative isolation, Kpétassi serves as a
strategic hub for several neighboring communities, making it an important
location for the delivery of primary healthcare services.
5. Assessment of Healthcare Needs
Because of its geographic location, Kpétassi serves as a referral point
for nearly seven surrounding villages, including Akata. The most distant
village is approximately 15 kilometers away.
The health unit serves an estimated population of 1,500 to 2,000
residents. For primary healthcare services—including medical consultations,
nursing care, and basic treatments—these communities rely primarily on the
Kpétassi health unit. As a result, many patients are able to receive care
locally, reducing the need to travel to the Akata Prefectural Health Unit
(USP).
This situation underscores the critical importance of strengthening the
capacity of this community-based healthcare facility.
6. Overview of the Health Unit
Name
La Grâce Divine First Aid Post
Date Established
November 11, 2025
Type of Facility
A privately operated, community-based healthcare initiative.
Healthcare Personnel
The facility is staffed by Mrs. NYAKPO Adzowa Anne, a
professionally trained nurse.
Infrastructure and Equipment
The health unit occupies a cement-block building consisting of three
adjoining rooms, each measuring approximately 10 square meters. The rooms are
rented for 2,500 CFA francs per room.
The rooms are used as follows:
- One room serves as the nurse's
living quarters.
- One room functions as the
consultation room.
- One room is used as the treatment
room.
The consultation room is furnished with one desk and three chairs,
including two chairs for patients.
The treatment room contains two non-adjustable examination beds and two
intravenous (IV) stands.
7. History of the Building
The building currently occupied by the La Grâce Divine First Aid Post
was originally part of a 72-hectare agricultural complex that has been inactive
for the past three to five years.
Located behind the farm's main residence, the building formerly served as
the office of the farm veterinarian.
The premises are currently leased to the nurse by the farm caretaker.
Prior to opening the health unit, the nurse personally financed the renovations
necessary to make the facility functional and suitable for healthcare delivery.
8. Community Engagement
The La Grâce Divine First Aid Post has earned the trust and strong
support of the local community.
Residents consistently seek primary healthcare services at the facility
and generally travel to Akata or Kpalimé only when more advanced medical care
is required.
The relationship between the nurse and the traditional leadership is also
excellent. In recognition of the facility's value to the community and to
support its future growth, the village chief and council of elders have donated
a parcel of land measuring approximately 1,800 square meters (equivalent to
three building lots) for the future expansion of the health center.
9. Conclusion
The La Grâce Divine First Aid Post plays a vital role in providing
access to primary healthcare services for the residents of Kpétassi and
neighboring villages. Although the facility operates with limited
infrastructure and resources, it addresses a critical healthcare need and
significantly improves access to essential medical services in this underserved
rural area.
Given its strategic location, demonstrated impact, and strong community
support, institutional and material investment in this facility is strongly
recommended. Additional support would enhance its operational capacity, expand
the range of services offered, and further improve the quality and
accessibility of healthcare for the surrounding population.
