Author: orccgov

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‎Beyond its environmental benefits, the initiative also seeks to inspire especially the youth to take responsibility for their surroundings and become active stewards of the environment.
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‎During his interaction with the students of Wankayaw MA Primary and JHS, Hon. Gyapong emphasized the importance of nurturing the trees they plant today. He encouraged them to care for the seedlings, protect them from harm, and ensure they grow strong and healthy. He reminded them that the true success of this exercise lies not just in planting the trees, but in sustaining them for future generations.

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‎I look forward to seeing these trees thrive when we return next year, standing as a testament to our collective commitment to a greener and more sustainable Ghana said by the minister.

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‎During his visit, He issued a firm directive to the contractor, emphasizing my expectation for the highest standards of quality, strict adherence to specifications, and timely completion of the project. Hon. Gyapong stressed that delays or compromises on quality will not be acceptable.
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‎As a key component of the Government’s flagship “Big Push” initiative, this project holds significant importance in improving connectivity, enhancing economic activity, and uplifting the livelihoods of communities along the corridor. It is therefore imperative that the project serves as a model of excellence, not only in construction standards but also in safety, durability, and long-term impact.
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‎All thanks to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, The President of the Republic of Ghana for the marvelous works he is doing.

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‎He informed the contractor that he will continue to closely monitor the progress of the works and ensure that all stakeholders remain committed to delivering a project that meets the expectations of the Government and the people.

‎Chief Director Owoo served with great dignity and a strong commitment to the structures and principles established by the Office of the Local Government Ministry. His adherence to professionalism, discipline, and respect for institutional frameworks greatly strengthened the operations of the region.

‎Beyond his official responsibilities, he has been a source of inspiration and guidance to many members of staff. His integrity, wisdom, and approachable nature made him not only a respected leader but also a mentor to many. His legacy of service, excellence, and teamwork will continue to influence the region long after his departure.

‎As he embarks on this new chapter in the Greater Accra Region, The entire staff of Oti RCC wish him continued success, greater achievements, and fulfillment in his service to the nation. He will be dearly missed, but his impact will remain indelible in our hearts and in the work we do.

‎We explored practical measures to enhance productivity, including access to improved seedlings, modern irrigation systems, and climate-resilient farming practices. Special attention was given to ginger production, considering its increasing global demand, and the need to strengthen value addition through processing, packaging, and export development.

‎Cassava and rice production were also highlighted as critical for improving food security and feeding agro-processing industries in the region. Investments in storage, warehousing, and efficient distribution systems were identified as essential steps to reduce post-harvest losses and maximize farmer incomes.

‎Furthermore, the provision of modern agricultural equipment such as tractors, harvesters, and irrigation tools was emphasized as a key driver for transforming agriculture from subsistence to commercial-scale production. Mechanization is expected to boost productivity, improve efficiency, and attract youth participation in the agricultural sector.

‎Recognizing that sustainable development depends heavily on human capital, we also discussed the importance of education and scholarship opportunities for the people of the Oti and Volta Regions. In particular, there was strong emphasis on facilitating scholarships in critical fields including: Science,Technical and vocational training, Engineering, Information Technology and Computer Science, Agriculture and agribusiness 

‎Such educational investments will not only empower the youth with practical and technical skills but also create a new generation of innovators capable of driving development within their communities. Strengthening academic and technical capacity will play a vital role in bridging the skills gap and supporting long term regional transformation.

‎Beyond primary production, we explored broader agricultural opportunities such as agribusiness development, agro-processing investments, and market expansion initiatives. The promotion of farmer cooperatives and access to financing were identified as critical steps in enabling farmers to scale their operations and improve their bargaining power.

‎Additionally, knowledge exchange programs between Ghana and Türkiye could provide farmers and stakeholders with exposure to modern agricultural technologies, best practices, and innovative farming systems.

‎Another key area of discussion was the need to attract strategic investors into the Oti Region. The region presents immense opportunities across agriculture, agro processing, and industrial development.This will encourage foreign and local investor’s to create employment opportunities, boost local production and value addition, enhance infrastructure development, Increase revenue generation.

‎Partnerships with Turkish investors, in particular, could support the establishment of processing plants, manufacturing hubs, and agribusiness ventures that will significantly transform the regional economy.Infrastructure development, especially road networks was highlighted as a critical factor in unlocking the full potential of the region. Poor road connectivity continues to limit access to markets, increase transportation costs, and contribute to post harvest losses.

‎Improving roads will,Facilitate efficient movement of goods and services, Support trade within and beyond the region, Attract investors and industrial activity, Enhance access to essential services such as education and healthcare. Strategic investments in road infrastructure will therefore play a central role in driving holistic development across the Oti Region.

‎The meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Türkiye, particularly in advancing development in the Oti Region. By focusing on agriculture, education, investment, and infrastructure, there is a clear and promising pathway toward sustainable growth and economic transformation.

‎The discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to harnessing the region’s vast potential and translating it into meaningful opportunities that will improve livelihoods, empower communities, and contribute to national development.

It is, however, important to acknowledge a key challenge we continue to face: many doctors and healthcare professionals are reluctant to accept postings to Oti, and even in recent times, some who are posted here do not report. Despite this, He sincerely applaud the remarkable dedication and hard work demonstrated by the nurses across the region.

During His discussion, Beatrice highlighted the pressing issue of understaffing and the need for improved healthcare facilities particularly the urgent need for a well-equipped recovery ward to better serve the people.

The Hon. Minister encouraged her to leverage her award and recognition as a platform to advocate for more resources, and to collaborate with colleagues, partners, and NGOs in securing the necessary support to strengthen healthcare delivery in the region.

The new facility brings to four the number of maternity and children’s wards constructed and handed over to communities and the Ghana Health Service by the Foundation. Similar facilities have previously been commissioned at Bole District Hospital, Nkoranza Health Centre and Abodom. The Foundation has also renovated and expanded the Hohoe Adabraka Health Centre.

Designed to deliver comprehensive maternal and child healthcare, the Asukawkaw facility includes maternity and children’s wards, a fully equipped operating theatre, delivery and sterilisation rooms, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), consulting rooms and administrative spaces. It is fitted with modern medical equipment including electric beds, infant incubators, ultrasound machines, operating tables, C-section and delivery kits, ECG machines, phototherapy units and patient monitors. A hybrid power system combining the national grid and solar energy has also been installed to ensure reliable service delivery.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Mahama reiterated her commitment to reducing maternal, infant and child mortality, stressing that no woman should lose her life while giving birth and no child should be denied quality healthcare because of location. She urged health authorities and the community to maintain the facility to ensure it serves generations to come.

The Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, commended the initiative as a practical step towards safe and dignified care for mothers, newborns and children.

In recognition of her contribution to the development of the area, the Chief and elders of the Akroso-Asukawkaw Traditional Area enstooled Mrs. Mahama as Development Queen Mother with the title Nana Oseadeayo Odamwaa II.

Nana Obeng Offori Appew VI, Benkumhene of Buem Traditional Area and Chief of Guaman, thanked Mr Yaw Osei, a local son, for bringing a long-held dream to life, adding that the facility was seen as a sign that development had reached Guaman, bringing hope and prosperity.

Nana Appew VI praised the vision and efforts behind the project, assuring full support for the center’s operation and a peaceful environment.

He said the initiative symbolised hope, self-reliance, and community pride aimed at transforming lives and boosting the local economy.

The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr Julius Neequaye Kotey, emphasised that the new facility was a reflection of the authority’s dedication to the “Reset Agenda” being championed by the President Mr John Dramani Mahama.

He noted that the facility was equipped with modern technology integrated into the DVLA’s digital system to ensure faster, efficient, and more convenient service delivery.

According to him, the Oti office would provide a full range of DVLA services, including upgrading, new driver’s licensing, renewal of driver’s licence, replacement of expired driver’s licence, replacement of missing driver’s licence, driver’s licence and vehicle registration.

He emphasized that ensuring road safety remains a key priority of the Authority, noting that every driver must be properly trained, tested, and certified, while all vehicles must be duly registered and approved before being allowed on the road.

The project was established through a collaboration between the DVLA and Mr Yaw Osei, Director of Tacos JP Limited under a Public Private Partnership arrangement.

The commissioning is not just an infrastructural achievement, it is a clear demonstration of our deliberate and inclusive effort to spread development across every district in the Oti Region. It reflects our guiding principle that no district must be left behind in the journey toward modernization and equitable service delivery.

With this new facility, Jasikan and its surrounding communities are empowered to participate more fully in the region’s economic and social transformation. It is a reminder that Oti is rising steadily, purposefully, and one district at a time.

The contractor explained that additional equipment is currently being mobilized to the site and that preliminary works have already begun, including the construction of accommodation facilities for workers. He further indicated that although the contractual duration for the bridge project is five years, the contractor anticipates completing the works within four years.

The inspection team subsequently visited the Dambai–Nkwanta Road project site at Tutukpene. Discussions with the contractor focused on the progress of the road works, which form part of a major infrastructure push in the area. The contractor confirmed that construction activities have commenced and assured that noticeable progress would soon be visible on the site.

The Minister Addressing both contractors, He emphasized that the Dambai Bridge and the Dambai–Nkwanta Road projects are legacy initiatives of strategic importance to the region and the nation at large. The contractors were therefore urged to execute the works with the highest standards of professionalism, efficiency, and accountability. Hon. Gyapong reiterated that regular site visits will be undertaken to closely monitor progress and ensure timely delivery because these projects, once completed, are expected to significantly enhance connectivity, boost economic activity, and improve the livelihoods of communities within the Oti Region and beyond.

“Coordinating Directors provide continuity, professionalism, and procedural guidance, making their role essential in translating policy decisions into tangible results,” he noted.

He described the performance contract exercise as a vital tool for strengthening accountability, tracking progress, and aligning local priorities with national and regional development objectives. “The performance contract is not merely a formality; it is a commitment to deliver,” Mr. Gyapong stressed, adding that achieving targets requires teamwork, consistent communication, and shared responsibility between Chief Executives and their technical heads.

The minister encouraged MDCES to involve Coordinating Directors and departmental leaders early in the planning and implementation process to minimize delays, improve coordination, and ensure efficient use of resources. He further underscored that the performance contract should serve as a problem-solving mechanism rather than a punitive measure, highlighting the importance of regular reviews, honest reporting, and timely corrective action.

Mr. Gyapong also urged Chief Executives to prioritize community-based needs while adhering strictly to procurement rules, transparency standards, and sound financial management practices.

Oti Regional Human Resource Director, Mr. Seth Adomako Sarkodie, in his presentation urged the executives to:

• Hold regular stakeholder meetings
• Log and track complaints
• Update official websites
• Resource IT offices for online monitoring

He further encouraged them to develop strategic plans, coordinate activities effectively, and adopt innovative logistics solutions to enhance reporting and ensure successful implementation of the contract.

Some Municipal Chief Executives welcomed the initiative, describing the signing ceremony as a renewed commitment to achieving set targets within specified timelines. Joseph Antwi Awal, the Nkwanta South MCE, expressed confidence that improved coordination and focused implementation would ensure the successful delivery

The Minister inspected over 100 acres of land acquired for the construction of the Oti Regional Hospital, aiming to bring healthcare delivery closer to the people.

Mr. Akandoh urged the regional minister to collaborate with traditional leaders to complete the necessary documentation and avoid land litigation, assuring that construction would start this year.

Mr. John Kwadwo Gyapong expressed gratitude for the Health Minister’s intervention and pledged to coordinate council support for the concerns raised. He also gave assurance to secure all the necessary land documentation for the construction of the Oti Regional Hospital.

The project aims to provide reliable access to safe and clean drinking water for over 65,000 residents across thirteen communities. It involves replacing damaged pumps, reconstructing intake and treatment units, and upgrading leaking PVC pipes to durable HDPE pipes.

The Minister stated in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the initiative is part of the government’s “water for all” initiative, which seeks to ensure equitable access to clean water for all Ghanaians. The rehabilitation of the Damanko community water system is expected to significantly improve health outcomes in the region.

The 2026 performance was signed Tuesday, 27th January, 2026 on behalf of the Region by the Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong and the Chief Director, Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo

The Local Government Service (LGS) has the mandate to ensure effective administration and management of the Decentralized Local Government System in the Country.

In line with this objective, the LGS develops and implements comprehensive Performance Management System (PMS) based on Service Delivery Standards (SDS).

They discussed the importance of decentralization and the critical role faith-based institutions play in deepening citizen participation, promoting accountability, peacebuilding, and supporting development at the grassroots. Government alone cannot achieve meaningful development; the Church remains a trusted partner not only in moral formation but also in physical and social development.

The Hon. Minister congratulated Father Dogli Senior High School for emerging as the Best SHS Agric School at the recent National Farmers Day celebrations, a clear demonstration of the positive impact of Church-led institutions in national development.

He was pleased to share a number of key milestones that signal a strong development trajectory for our region. Land has been secured for the construction of a Regional Hospital in Dambai, a major step towards improving access to quality healthcare. In the area of security, a team of contractors and military officials has already visited the proposed site for a military barracks, with construction scheduled to commence by 10th January.

In line with government’s commitment to expanding access to tertiary education, the 2026 Budget Statement makes provision for a public university in Oti and a technical university, opening new opportunities for our youth. To further boost local economic activity, a modern fish market is to be constructed in Dambai, while preparations are underway for the sod-cutting of the Dambai Bridge, following the arrival of key equipment for the project.

We also noted significant progress in agriculture and infrastructure. Major irrigation projects covering 2,050 hectares are underway at Bumbula No. 1, Bumbula No. 2, and Katanga, Land has been allocated for the proposed fish market in Dambai alongside five Big Push road projects that has been mentioned in the 2026 budget aimed at improving connectivity across the region. I was equally proud to highlight that the Oti Region emerged with two national awards at this year’s National Farmers Day celebrations, a testament to the hard work and resilience of our farmers and agricultural sector.

Hon. John Gyapong took the opportunity to commend our Municipal and District Chief Executives for their dedication and the excellent work done in their respective assemblies throughout the year. Their commitment has been instrumental in translating policy into tangible results for our people.

As we draw the year to a close, I remain grateful to all stakeholders for their cooperation and support. Together, we will continue to work tirelessly to deliver development, improve livelihoods, and position the Oti Region for a brighter and more prosperous future.

During the visit to the Chief Palace, The Minister formally informed Nana Dasebre Atamafuwiese Bonja II, the Overlord of Dambai about the documentations of the land and the project design details to the constructor before 10th January 2026.

As part of the visit they toured the project site with the contractor to assess the land ahead of the start of works.

This project forms part of His Excellency the President’s vision to establish two military bases next year in the country aimed at strengthening national security and promoting balanced regional development.

A major step forward for the Oti Region.