The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, on Tuesday, 18th November 2025, joined Directors and key officers from various departments and agencies at the Bosatsu Conference Hall in Dambai for the regional training and setup on the Electronic Salary Payment Voucher (ESPV) Administration System.
The training brought together Regional and District Directors, Internal Auditors, and payroll management officers as part of ongoing national efforts to strengthen efficiency and transparency in public sector salary administration.
In his remarks, the Hon. Regional Minister underscored the importance of adopting modern digital tools to enhance accuracy in payroll processing and promote accountability within the public service. He noted that as a developing region, the Oti Region continues to prioritize systems that support effective governance and financial discipline.
Hon. Gyapong was accompanied by the Regional Coordinating Director of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council (ORCC), the Regional Liaison Officer for National Security, and the Assistant Director I at the ORCC.
The ESPV training provided participants with hands-on guidance on the use of the system, which is expected to improve payroll monitoring and reduce irregularities across public institutions in the region.
The Oti Regional Coordinating Council remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance administrative efficiency and strengthen public financial management across the region.
It was an exciting and insightful day in the Jasikan Municipality as the Board Chairman of COCOBOD, Mr. Odosu Ampofo together with two Board Members, the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, and other top officials from COCOBOD paid a working visit to our area.
The visit began with a courtesy call on the Chief and Elders of the Buem Traditional Area, where discussions focused on some key issues affecting the cocoa sector including cocoa marketing, the fight against smuggling, and several ongoing government interventions under COCOBOD.
The team later met with the Oti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and had an interactive session with cocoa farmers and stakeholders at the Jasikan Municipal Assembly Hall.
It was a great platform for open dialogue and sharing ideas to protect and grow Ghana’s cocoa industry.
Key Highlights & Interventions
During the engagement, the COCOBOD team shared updates on several important interventions such as:
Cocoa Rehabilitation Programme-replacing diseased and old trees to boost productivity and improve farmers’ income.
2. Mass Pruning & Hand Pollination Initiatives-supporting farmers to increase yield and ensure healthy farms.
3. Cocoa Roads Project- improving feeder roads in cocoa-growing areas to make transport of produce easier.
4. Cocoa Farmers’ Pension Scheme-securing the future of our hardworking farmers after retirement.
5. Free Fertilizer & Seedling Support-providing the right inputs for quality and sustainable cocoa production.
6. Anti-Smuggling Efforts-strengthening task forces and community collaboration to stop cocoa smuggling across our borders, especially along the Ghana-Togo corridor.
The Board Chairman commended the Chiefs, Elders, Security Services, and the Anti-Cocoa Smuggling Task Force for their tireless work and dedication-even in the rains and at midnight to protect Ghana’s cocoa.
This visit was more than just a tour; it was a show of commitment to our farmers, our communities, and the future of Ghana’s cocoa industry.
As part of the ongoing 2025 Ghana Armed Forces Recruitment Exercise, the Oti Region is currently hosting its documentation and body selection process at the Dambai College of Education.
This year’s exercise has been decentralized across the various regions to make the process more efficient and accessible to all interested applicants.
This morning, The Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong visited the center to interact with the officers in charge and the young men and women going through the recruitment process. He was impressed with how smoothly the exercise is being conducted and commend the Ghana Armed Forces for the level of organization and professionalism displayed.
Hon. Gyapong wished all applicants the very best and assure the Ghana Armed Forces of his continuous support throughout this important national exercise.
The Oti Regional Coordinating Council (ORCC) on Thursday, 6th November 2025, hosted the official inauguration of the Dambai Zonal Chapter of the Ghana Institute of Planning (GIP) at its Conference Hall in Dambai. The event marked a significant milestone in strengthening professional planning practice and promoting sustainable development in the Oti Region.
The ceremony, chaired by the Regional Economic Planning Officer, Rev. Pln. Isaac Asante Wiafe, brought together planners and development practitioners from across the region.
In his opening remarks, Rev. Pln. Wiafe expressed his delight at the successful establishment of the Chapter, noting that the process had been years in the making. He emphasized that the GIP is a professional institution with a unique mandate, urging members to uphold their professional integrity and make their presence felt in their respective communities. He further encouraged the newly elected executives to take their roles seriously and work towards advancing the objectives of the Institute and the nation.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, the Chief Director, Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo who is also a planner, welcomed participants and commended the efforts leading to the inauguration. He underscored the need to make the planning profession more attractive, especially to women, in order to achieve gender balance within the sector.
The National President of the Ghana Institute of Planning (GIP), Pln. Percy Anaab Bukari, in his statement, lauded the efforts of planners in the region and shared updates from his participation in the recent Volta Economic Forum. The forum, he said, focused on the government’s 24-Hour Economic Initiative, an idea he encouraged planners to integrate into their development plans. He further disclosed that the Dambai Zone is the second among the six newly created regions to be inaugurated, urging members to demonstrate professionalism and excellence in their work.
The highlight of the event was an address by the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, who commended the leadership of GIP for the initiative and reaffirmed government’s commitment to decentralization and balanced regional development. He emphasized the critical role planners play in ensuring sustainable growth, describing them as “the vision bearers and architects of development.”
Hon. Gyapong noted that the government continues to strengthen the financial base of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies through increased District Assemblies Common Fund allocations, in line with the President’s vision of deepening decentralization. He encouraged planners to adopt innovative and evidence-based approaches to planning and ensure that the development landscape of the Oti Region reflects proper coordination and foresight.
The Minister further revealed that despite having another official assignment to commission a World Vision project in Chinderi, he made it a point to attend the inauguration because of the importance he attaches to planning and development. He shared insights from his recent meeting with the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and other Regional Ministers, where discussions focused on the 24-Hour Market Initiative, a flagship government program with funding already secured. He highlighted that planners will play a pivotal role in ensuring the full implementation of this initiative within the next 18 months.
Hon. Gyapong also proposed that the new Chapter be renamed the Oti Zonal Chapter to better reflect inclusivity across all districts within the region. The National President of GIP assured him that the suggestion would be considered during the Institute’s upcoming National Conference scheduled for 27th–28th November 2025 in Tamale.
The ceremony concluded with the swearing-in of the first executives of the Dambai Zonal Chapter:
• Chairman: Pln. Abass Ibrahim
• Vice Chairman: Pln. Simon Bijiba
• Secretary: Rev. Pln. Benjamin Nii Ayi Commey
• Organizer: Pln. Solomon Sackitey
The inauguration was hailed as a major step towards strengthening the professional capacity of planners in the Oti Region, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the role of planning in achieving sustainable development outcomes.
Today, we successfully hosted the Oti Regional Investment Roadshow in collaboration with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).
It was an engaging and productive platform that brought together investors, development partners, and local stakeholders to explore the many opportunities our region offers.
The Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong was deeply encouraged by the level of interest and commitment shown toward unlocking Oti’s potential. Together, we will continue driving local investment and building a prosperous future for our people.
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong had the honor of presenting cash support of GHC 200,000 to the victims and families affected by the tragic River Oti boat disaster, a promise made by the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, during her visit earlier this month.
This gesture reflects government’s deep compassion and unwavering commitment to stand with our people in difficult times. The Regional Minister in his address said he remains dedicated to ensuring that every form of support promised reaches those who need it most.
He further said while we continue to mourn with the affected families, He wish to once again appeal to all residents along the riverbanks to prioritize safety, especially by wearing life jackets whenever traveling on the lake. Together, we can prevent such heartbreaking incidents from happening again.
May God continue to comfort the bereaved families and grant the survivors strength and healing.
This evening, the Oti Regional Minister Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong visited the Greater Accra Regional Hospital to check on the young girl who sustained gunshot wounds during the recent unfortunate incident at Keri in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region.
Seeing her condition was truly heartbreaking. On behalf of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, He presented an amount of GH₵30,000.00 to support her surgery and ongoing medical treatment.
He further encourage the family that our thoughts and prayers are with them in this difficult time and will continue to stand with all victims and affected communities as we work together to restore lasting peace and calm in the area.
Hon. John Gyapong assured the good people of the Oti Region that government and the security agencies are fully committed to protecting lives and ensuring stability.
The Judicial Training Institute (JTI) has organized a capacity-building workshop on land acquisition and conflict resolution for chiefs and queen mothers in the Oti Region.
Held in Dambai, the regional capital, the training brought together traditional leaders from across the region to strengthen their understanding of land laws and effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
Perpetual Quashie, Esq., Deputy Director of the Judicial Training Institute in charge of staff training, explained that the initiative was a collaborative effort between the JTI and the Oti Regional House of Chiefs.
She noted that the workshop aimed to empower traditional authorities to handle land and chieftaincy-related conflicts in accordance with the law.
Nana Soglo Alloh IV, President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs, commended the JTI for organizing the program, stating that it had enhanced their capacity to manage disputes that frequently arise in the region.
He added that the House of Chiefs plans to hold similar sessions in the future to further deepen the knowledge and skills of traditional leaders in addressing complex issues within their jurisdictions.
Nana Soglo Alloh IV expressed appreciation to the JTI for its continued support, describing the training as timely and highly beneficial to the traditional leadership in Oti.
The Minister for the Interior, on the advice of the Oti Regional Security Council and by Executive Instrument, reviewed the Curfew hours for Nkwanta Township and its environs in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am, effective Thursday, October 23, 2025.
Government continues to urge Chiefs, Opinion Leaders, Youth, and People of the area to exercise restraint in the face of the challenges confronting them and to use non-violent means to channel their energies into ensuring peace in the area.
Meanwhile, there is a total ban on all persons in the Nkwanta Township and its environs in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region from carrying arms, ammunition or any offensive weapons, and any persons found with any arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.
Mr. John Kwadwo Gyapong, Oti Regional Minister, has called on the Ministry of Education to upgrade the Bueman Senior High School (BUSEC) in Jasikan Municipality to Grade A institution. The minister made this appeal during the school’s 65th anniversary celebration, themed “Honoring Our Past, Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders”, held at the school premises on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
This move reflects the minister’s confidence in the school’s potential and commitment to academic excellence in the region. However, the member of parliament (MP) of Buem constituency and the Minister for sports, Mr. Kofi Adams, revealed that Bueman Senior High School stands to benefit from government initiative to upgrade infrastructure in schools. Mr Adams said a petition has been submitted to the Ministry of Education, and the Minister for Finance has expressed interest in upgrading some Grade A schools and reclassifying some Grade Band C schools in the country. “With funding already available, the Minister for Education has been tasked with submitting a proposal with costs and recommendations”. The Minister for sports revealed. He assured traditional leaders, stakeholders, school management and students that BUSEC Will be among those considered for upgrades, bringing hope for improved infrastructure and facilities.
Mr. Frank Boamah, the headmaster of Bueman Senior High School, has reaffirmed the school’s commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators and change – makers. He emphasized the school’s focus on nurturing a culture of academic excellence, ethics and innovation, empowering students to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Mr Boamah urged the Bueman Old Students Association (BOSA) to join hands in building on the school’s legacy and shaping the future of Ghana.
The Oti Regional budget unit held its first phase of the 2025 Budget Hearing at the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, where five Assemblies — Nkwanta North, Nkwanta South, Krachi East, Krachi Nchumuru, and Krachi West — were in attendance.
The event brought together key stakeholders to review the Assemblies’ performance and deliberate on the 2026-2029 fiscal years’ outlook.
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, emphasized the importance of prudent financial planning and alignment with national priorities in his speech.
The Hon. Regional Minister stated that the budget hearing exercise is grounded in Regulation 17(3) of the Public Financial Management Regulations, 2019 (L.I. 2378), mandating reviews for effective fiscal discipline and accountability. He outlined the government’s vision, anchored on four pillars:
1. Economic restoration and stability
2. Improving the business and investment environment
3. Governance and constitutional reforms
4. Accountability and the fight against corruption
The Minister highlighted priority areas, including the 24-hour economy policy, youth empowerment, agriculture, and agribusiness. He stressed that Assemblies must align their 2026 budgets with national aspirations and Medium-Term Development Plans.
Mr. Theophilus Maclor, representing the Ministry of Finance, reminded Assemblies that financial transactions must be processed through GIFMIS.
Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo, Oti Regional Coordinating Director, cautioned Assemblies to adhere to Ministry of Finance guidelines and incorporate changes from the budget hearing.
The event concluded with a call for collaboration to ensure the 2026-2029 fiscal framework reflects national priorities and addresses the Oti Region’s socio-economic realities.
Present at the event were the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Regional Coordinating Director, Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo, the representative of the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Theophilus Maclor, the representative of the Office of the Head of Local Government Service, Mr. Brian Tsikpor, the Regional Budget Analyst, Dr. Samuel Darrah, the representative of the Regional Economic Planning Officer, Mr. James Awapoaye, Regional Social Welfare Director, Traditional Authorities, Presiding Members, Chairpersons of the statutory Sub-Committees, Non-Governmental Organizations, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs), and staff of the various Assemblies.
The Vice President, Her Excellency Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, visited Okuma-Akura to mourn the loss of 16 lives in a recent canoe accident that occurred in the Krachi West Municipality of the Oti Region.
On Saturday, October 11, 2025, around 20 people, including children, were traveling to Debume for funeral when the canoe they were in capsized. While 8 individuals were rescued, sadly, 16 lives were lost.
Accompanying the Vice President were the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukhari Nikpe, the Director General of the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), Major Dr. Kuyon and other members of her entourage.
During her address to the community, she expressed her deepest condolences to the bereaved families, describing the loss of 16 lives as a national tragedy.
She urged canoe and boat operators in the area to adhere to safety protocols while traveling on the Volta Lake to prevent future disasters.
In her effort to support the affected families, the Vice President presented 200 life jackets, mosquito nets, cooking oil, 100 bags of rice, second-hand clothing, and a monetary donation of GH¢200,000 to help cover funeral expenses.
Minister of Transport Joseph Nikpe outlined the ministry’s plans to prevent future incidents, including the training and deployment of a rapid response team to various island communities to promote adherence to safety protocols and encourage the use of life jackets while using the Volta Lake for transportation.
He also announced the establishment of an operation center in Kpando-Torkor, which will focus on education and enforcement of safety measures.
The Member of Parliament for Krachi West, Helen Adwodwa Ntoso, extended her condolences to the bereaved families and urged them to remain calm, assuring them that the government is implementing measures to safeguard lives on the lake.
She acknowledged that despite the tragedy, the community would continue to travel on the river and emphasized the importance of adhering to safety guidelines.
Additionally, the Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, expressed gratitude for the Vice President’s visit following the disaster, stating that her presence would bring comfort to the affected families.
The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, today joined residents of Dambai, the Oti Regional capital, in a clean-up exercise at the ferry station. The exercise aimed at promoting environmental cleanliness and improving sanitation in the area.
He commended the MCE, assembly staff, and community members for their active participation. He urged residents to make cleanliness and health a collective responsibility, stressing the importance of keeping the environment clean to prevent typhoid and other sanitation-related diseases in the regional capital.
The Minister further advised the health authorities to prioritize public health education and adopt preventive measures to safeguard the wellbeing of citizens.
He was accompanied by the Oti Regional Political Coordinator, Hon. Sulemana Mumuni, who also encouraged residents to support the government’s ongoing efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, the Oti Regional Minister, presented over 90 water pump machines, previously seized from illegal mining (galamsey) sites, to the cooperative farmers’ association in the region.
The machines were handed over to the farmers to support irrigation and boost agricultural productivity in the area.
Speaking at the event, the minister said the water pumps will enable farmers to irrigate their farms more effectively, reducing dependence on rainfall and increasing crop productivity. Mr. Gyapong has called on farmers in the region to form cooperative associations to facilitate access to government support and resources.
The Dean of Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCE’s) in Oti region, Mr. Prosper Addo, has commended the government and Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOF) for releasing seized water pumps to nine regions which Oti was not left out.
The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Krachi West noted that the water pumps will help address irrigation challenges faced by farmers in the region.
The MCE expressed gratitude to the government for repurposing the seized water pumps to support farmers, rather than letting them go to waste.
The chairman of the Vegetable Cooperative Farmers Association in Nkwanta South, Mr. William Kwame, has expressed optimism about improving vegetable farming in the Municipality this year. With the support from the ministry of Food and Agriculture, they are poised to increase their productivity.
In a significant move to enhance agricultural productivity, the Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadzo Gyapong, today handed over 100 water pumping machines to farmers across all nine constituencies within the Oti Region. The initiative is designed to provide crucial irrigation support, enabling farmers to cultivate a wider variety of crops and increase their yields. This includes essential produce like tomatoes, okra, cabbage, and carrots, with the ultimate goal of strengthening Ghana’s food security.
During the handover ceremony, Hon. Gyapong addressed the beneficiaries, emphasizing the importance of responsible management of the newly provided equipment. In an interview with XYZ News reporter Ibrahim Nsor, the Minister urged the constituencies and their cooperative groups to utilize the water pumping machines effectively. He stressed the need to maximize agricultural output, ensuring that the region benefits fully from this investment. Hon. Gyapong also assured the farmers of ongoing support from the government, signaling a commitment to further agricultural development. He highlighted his personal connection to farming, expressing his desire to see the farmers thrive.
The event also featured remarks from Hon. Prosper Kwaku Addo, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Krachi West and the Dean of Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) in the Oti Region. Hon. Addo commended the Minister of Agriculture and the Oti Regional Minister for their impactful efforts in promoting agriculture within the region. He pledged that the MDCEs, representing their respective constituencies, would actively oversee the proper utilization of the water pumping machines by the cooperative groups. He noted that the presence of the Oti River provided a significant advantage, offering a valuable resource to further boost agricultural output and contribute to the nation’s food supply. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in the Oti Region.
