Introduction
The Assembly exists to empower citizens to participate in decision-making processes that affect their welfare and to involve them in governance through a decentralized and democratic system.
In line with this mandate, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Charles Appiah-Kubi, embarked on a three-day working visit to selected communities within the Sunsu Freho Area Council. The communities visited included: Besease, Simdadeaso, Freboye, Anyanso, Gyimakyi, Anwhiaso, Tebeso II, Tebeso I, Freso, Kokyekrom, Abosamso, and Asamama.
The Hon. DCE was accompanied by heads of departments and institutional representatives including District Police Commander, and representatives from COCOBOD.
Purpose and Activities
In every community visited, the District Information Officer explained the purpose of the engagement, after which departments are given the opportunity to give a brief report on their operations and shared relevant education and updates on issues that concerns the development of the district and the nation at large
- Health:
The District Health Director educated residents on the emerging Mpox (Monkeypox) disease—its symptoms, transmission, and prevention. She advised residents to practice regular handwashing, ensure thorough cooking of bush meat, and attend community health meetings. Pregnant women were also encouraged to attend antenatal clinics regularly and all residents were urged to renew their National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) memberships. - Security:
The District Police Commander cautioned communities about the rising number of motorcycle-related accidents among the youth. He emphasized the importance of licensing both motorcycles and riders and urged community leaders to educate the youth to stay away from hard drugs such as Tramadol, “Red”, and marijuana (wee), which contribute significantly to accidents and social issues. - Agriculture:
The Agric Director spoke about the Government’s flagship program “Feed Ghana.” He encouraged farmers to form community-based associations based on the types of crops grown in their areas. He announced government plans to establish Farmer Service Centers in each town to provide essential inputs and support. The COCOBOD representative also advised farmers whose farms had not yet been measured to do so promptly to benefit from input distribution.
Concerns Raised by Nananom
During the engagement sessions, Nananom expressed concerns over a number of development challenges affecting their communities. Key issues raised included:
- Poor road networks, which hamper transportation and access to markets.
- Inadequate water supply, affecting the health and sanitation of residents.
- Dilapidated or inadequate classroom infrastructure, which negatively impacts teaching and learning.
- Lack of well-equipped health facilities to meet the basic healthcare needs of the communities.
Remarks by the District Chief Executive
Hon. Charles Appiah-Kubi expressed his gratitude to Nananom and the communities for their warm reception and active participation. He thanked Assembly Members and traditional leaders for their support during his appointment and confirmation as DCE. Having worked in the district for many years, he acknowledged the district’s challenges and pledged to work with government machinery to address them.
He emphasized his commitment to development and called on all citizens to set aside political differences and work together for the progress of Bosome Freho. He reaffirmed that the government’s “Reset” agenda is on course and called for unity among the people.
The Hon. DCE assured the people of Tebeso II that the 24-hour economy market promised by H.E. John Dramani Mahama would be constructed in their community. He further encouraged the community to support the government by acknowledging the progress made and continuing to rally behind its efforts.
Conclusion
The community engagement exercise was conducted in accordance with the Local Governance Act 936 to foster cordial and peaceful relationships among the communities the Assembly serves. Nananom and residents took the opportunity to engage the Assembly directly, seeking clarifications and voicing their concerns.
The Assembly was commended for involving communities in governance processes and it is hoped that the issues raised, particularly on roads, water, health, and education infrastructure, will be addressed in due time for the improvement of livelihoods and the overall development of the district.
