The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to infrastructure development, peace and inclusive governance following a series of high-level engagements with traditional authorities in the Nadowli/Kaleo District.
The Minister paid courtesy calls on the Charekpong, Nadowli, Takpo and Sankana Paramountcies, where he held closed-door discussions with chiefs and elders on key development challenges confronting the district, including poor road networks, unreliable electricity supply, healthcare gaps and agricultural modernization.
Addressing concerns over the state of roads, particularly during the rainy season, Hon. Puozuing said the government will prioritise the Upper West Region under its flagship BigPush infrastructure programme.
“Roads are not a privilege; they are a necessity for development,” the Minister said. “Under the BigPush, we will aggressively rehabilitate and construct major roads in this region to open up communities, boost trade and improve access to essential services.”
He further announced that District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) machines will be deployed by the District Assembly to ensure regular maintenance of feeder and access roads.
“We are not waiting for roads to completely collapse before acting. These machines will help keep our roads motorable all year round,” he stated.
Traditional leaders also raised concerns about unstable power supply and the condition of health facilities across the district. In response, the Regional Minister assured the chiefs that government is working with relevant agencies to improve electricity reliability and strengthen healthcare delivery.
“No community can develop without reliable power and functional health facilities. We are committed to upgrading infrastructure and ensuring the right personnel are available to serve our people,” Hon. Puozuing said.
On agriculture, chiefs called for improved irrigation systems, modern machinery and stronger extension services to enhance productivity. The Minister described agriculture as the backbone of the local economy and pledged increased support to farmers.
“Modernising agriculture is key to reducing poverty and creating jobs. We will continue to invest in irrigation, mechanisation and farmer support systems,” he added.
The visit was attended by Council of State Member, H.E. Michael Kwame Mumuni, and NDC Upper West Regional Chairman, Abdul-Nasir Saani, underscoring the political importance of the engagement.
The District Chief Executive, Madam Mary Haruna, assured the chiefs of sustained collaboration between the District Assembly and traditional authorities in implementing development projects.
Meanwhile, the Paramount Chief of the Sankana Traditional Area, Naa Pagraninge Saakoe Mornah III, commended the government for engaging traditional leaders directly and emphasised the need for peace and unity to drive development.
Residents and traditional authorities expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a strong signal of government’s resolve to work closely with chiefs to address local challenges and accelerate development in the Upper West Region.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
