Category: News

Lack of peace, the President said derails development and economic growth hence the need for the factions to resort to appropriate procedures through dialogue in resolving their differences.

He called on the feuding factions in Nkwanta South to lay down their weapons and resort to dialogue in addressing their differences for the sake of peace and development in the Municipality.

“Our common enemy is poverty and not against each other let’s strive with unity of purpose for our generation unborn by embrace peace as the only tool for development,” he said.

President John Dramani Mahama said his presence in the region was to thank the people of the Oti Region for overwhelmingly voting for him in the 2024 election.

He said is outfit was committed to sharing the National Cake for the Oti region to benefit in terms of development.

Addressing the gathering, the President the economy is back on track and has shown positive signs of recovery whilst inflation is expected to hit a single digit by end of the 2025, and the Ghanaian Cedi has appreciated significantly against the major currencies across the globe.

According to him, Oti region will grab a public university in Oti Region as part of his campaign promise of establishing a public university in every newly created region.

Other development projects he mentioned include; the construction of Kpassa – Oti Damanko – Nkwanta road through government Big Push programmed, whilst the Dambai bridge is expected to commence by end of 2025.

President Mahama explained that as part of his government’s commitment to improve road infrastructure, government is constructing about ten-kilometre road in some 166 districts across the country of which all the Municipal and District Assemblies in the region will benefit

Engaging with the stakeholders to construct a regional hospital in Dambai and will provide a fully fledge health care service to the people.

He said his office has directed the Ghana water company to extend their visibility in Dambai to address the water treatment challenge in the region.

President also announced the revamping of the Damanko-Kpassa water system to ensure effective follow of water to benefit about 70,000 people in Nkwanta north. Project, he said will cost over Ghs40 million and is expected to be complete in 18 months.

For sports, the President said modern multipurpose sports stadium will be constructed in all new regions and Oti Region is included.

To the President of the Oti Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Soglo Alloh IV, Mr Mahama’s administration started on the good note, adding that the Oti Region gave the president a total nine Members of parliament.

He said Article 242 deals with the MDCEs and the clause D talks about the appointment of MDCEs in collaboration with the traditional leadership and called for the amendment of article 242 clause ‘D’ to allow the chiefs involve in local assemblies’ activities.

He added that chiefs engage in settlement of disputes and a link between the local areas and the government and they have paid their dues and must be given a dividends of infrastructure development.

He lamented that although the economy had picked up but the citizens are still hoping to fill the impact of the economic growth and urged the President to scale the measures aimed at improving the living standard of the citizenry with Oti region as a focus.

The chief continued that the previous government had built a High Court to serve the people in the region but there is no judge to adjudicate of issues, no hospital for the region to provide quality health services to the people.

He requested the government to provide effective or temporal means of transport for the residents pending the construction of bridge over the Oti river in Dambai.

He pleaded with set up a military base in either Nkwanta South or Dambai to enable the timely intervention in addressing pockets of violence in the region.

Sealed Tenders were received and opened on Thursday, 24th July 2024 at the Conference Hall of the Oti Regional Coordinating Council, Dambai at 10:00am.

The Tender Opening Committee, chaired by the Honourable Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong facilitated the Bid Opening Process. Key among them were representatives of various Contractors and Construction firms and staff of the Ghana Highway Authority, Members of Oti Regional Entity Tender Committee and Heads of Departments and Units of the ORCC who sat in to witness the programme.

Tender Opening members took keen records of details of the various individual bids received. The Head of Quantities, Mr. Albert Kwesi Koomson, read out the submitted bid prices, bid security and amounts and confirmed whether the tenderers submitted the valid statutory documents required for preliminary evaluation of the Tenders.

The Evaluation Team of the Oti Regional Ghana Highway Authority was assigned to conduct detailed evaluation of the bids and report accordingly. The Chairman, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong admonished for a fair and transparent evaluation process.

He said the council is to ensure the approval of by-laws for the MDAs across the region in according to the local government act.

He charged the members of the expanded RCC to live up to their task to discharge their mandate adequately without compromise to inure to the benefit of the Oti Region.

He said he inherited an uncompleted three-stairs ORCC office started in 2020 including six other projects completed but not in use.

He explained that his outfit is poised to complete the ORCC office and have written to the Presidency where assessment had been conducted and the contractor is expected to return to site. Adding that the construction of bridge over the Oti river in Dambai is a priority.

Upgrading selected town roads of 4.5 km in Jasikan, rehabilitation of 6.3km roads contract terminated and awaiting contract rewarding.

He continued that about 15km roads in Krachi will be constructed whilst contractors on Dambai town roads have abandoned site, adding some 28 Feeder roads projects are ongoing across the region

Hon Gyapong averred that about 22% of lands in Oti is occupied by water and the ministry of Agric is undertaking a 7.2 hectares irrigation for work programme in both Nkonya in Biakoye District and Pie Katanga in the Krachi East Municipality.

Hon. Gyapong charged against teacher absenteeism and explained that a regional task force is expected to be formed to monitor and evaluate the performance of teachers and teacher absenteeism aimed at promoting quality learning outcomes.

He added that health is a priority hence the need to contract a regional hospital in Dambai to promote growth and development.

Hon. Gyapong urged the tribes and three factions in Nkwanta South to lay down their weapons and resort to peace building rightful processes and charged the committee to work to bring peace in Nkwanta South.

The Minister revealed that the recent insurgencies in Nkwanta South have claimed about 17 lives whilst 14 others had been injured adding that so far 17 people have been arrested and transferred to Accra for prosecution.

He announced the intention of the ORCC to launch a monthly sanitation and clean up exercise to clean the major cities and local communities in the region and tasked all the MDCEs to take keen interest in environmental sustainability by fully participating in the clean up exercise.

The Membership of the expanded RCC, chaired by the Minister with members including all Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs), all Presiding Members in … two representatives from the Regional House of Chiefs, heads of departments, and heads decentralised government institutions in the region.

For the Regional Coordinating Director of ORCC, Rev. Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo, the gesture marks not only the inauguration of the newly created or formed regional Coordinating Council but also seek to champion regional development

RCC he said is mandated to supervise and coordinate the implementation of government initiatives and policies to include other stakeholders

The expanded RCC seek to reduce the duplication and promote development within the region and become the ambassadors of change and innovation.

Regional Education, Agric Directorates  were awarded for timely submission of reports to the regional coordinating council.

Long time service in Oti Region, K O Agyarkum, former  Regional commander of NIB, Dr Osei Kufour Alfred, former Regional Health Director; former Regional Environmental Health Analyst reorganized of her outstanding service; Joseph Gyau Appiah (retired), former Community Development Director  of the region.

Security Briefing and Situation on the Ground

Security personnel at the meeting provided a stark update on the situation. According to the briefing:

Eleven (11) deaths have been recorded since the outbreak of the conflict.

Several residents have deserted their homes due to fear and insecurity, leading to the partial abandonment of communities.

Properties have been destroyed in multiple locations.

Two (2) firearms were retrieved by security officers in Pawa.

Eight (8) individuals suspected to be involved in the unrest have been arrested and transferred to Accra for further investigations and prosecution.

Minister’s Call for Calm and Order

In his address, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong strongly condemned the acts of violence and the recent resurgence of conflict believed to have been triggered by the pouring of libation in Nkwanta. The Minister, therefore, issued a directive to the security forces to arrest all individuals who were involved in the said act, which he described as provocative and unacceptable.

He also took the opportunity to issue a stern warning to persons using social media platforms to spread false information and incite violence. According to the Minister, such individuals would be tracked and arrested to face the full rigours of the law.

“Let me caution all social media war mongers: your actions are being monitored. If you do not stop spreading fear and misinformation, you will be arrested. We cannot allow a few individuals to destroy the peace we are building,” the Minister stated firmly.

Appeal for Peace and Development

Hon. Gyapong appealed to residents of Pawa, Keri, Bonakye, and the entire Nkwanta South Municipality to cease fire, desist from acts of destruction, and choose the path of peace and development. He stressed that no community can progress in the midst of violence and disorder, and called for collective responsibility in rebuilding the affected areas.

Commendation and Gratitude

The Regional Minister expressed his deep appreciation to the Chief of Kpassa, Ubor Konja Tassan VI, for his instrumental role in the peace efforts. He also commended the security agencies, traditional rulers, and opinion leaders who have contributed meaningfully to the ongoing dialogue and reconciliation process.

“We are grateful for the leadership and wisdom shown by our traditional authorities and the relentless efforts of the security services. This collaboration is vital if we are to sustain peace and bring healing to the people of Nkwanta South,” he added.

Conclusion

The engagement at Pawa marks a significant step in the regional government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in Nkwanta South Municipality. The Oti Regional Coordinating Council is expected to continue its conflict resolution efforts and provide strategic direction towards sustainable development and social cohesion in the region.

He ended his remarks that if not God’s blessing on Ghana, the multiplicity of Ghanaian religious practice, different believes and faith would have truncated the peace in Ghana. Hence his excellency the president of the republic of Ghana John Dramani Mahama’s declaration of Tuesday July 1, 2025 as “Prayer and Thanksgiving Day”.

The highlight of the event was a keynote address delivered by the Honorable Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, who used the platform to inspire unity, peace, and spiritual reawakening in the region, particularly in light of recent ethnic tensions and developmental challenges.

Theme and Significance

Themed “Reflect, Reset and Renew for National Prosperity,” the event provided an avenue for both spiritual introspection and national commitment. The Minister emphasized the sacred purpose of the day, encouraging attendees to transcend political, ethnic, and religious divisions to collectively thank God for His mercies and reflect on the path toward sustainable regional and national development.

A one-minute silence was observed to honor the lives lost in the Nkwanta ethnic conflict, underscoring the solemn tone of the event and the need for lasting peace.

Highlights of the Keynote Address

1. Recognition of Progress and Challenges

Hon. Gyapong acknowledged the dual reality of progress and persistent challenges within the region. He commended ongoing efforts in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and education while reminding the gathering of the socio-economic hardships still confronting communities in Oti.

2. Agricultural Development

The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to agricultural transformation, highlighting key initiatives such as:

Feed Ghana Initiative

A seven thousand two hundred (7,200) hectors irrigation projects in Biakoye and Krachi East which Biakoye takes three thousand two hundred (3,200) and Krachi East takes four thousand (4,000)

These interventions are aimed at boosting productivity, ensuring food security, and creating employment for the youth.

3. Healthcare and Education

Significant improvements were reported in health and education access in areas like Krachi East, Nkwanta South, and Kadjebi. The ongoing completion of the agenda 111 hospital projects was noted as a major government priority to enhance healthcare accessibility across the region.

4. Road Infrastructure and Connectivity

Hon. Gyapong stressed the urgent need for road development, citing the bridging of Dambai river, Nkwanta-Kpassa-Damanko and Nkwanta-Dambai corridors as strategic arteries that must be completed during the current presidential tenure to unlock economic potential and improve mobility.

5. Appeal for Peace and Unity

A strong call was made for peace and reconciliation, particularly in conflict-prone areas such as Nkwanta South Municipal. The Minister appealed for forgiveness, community dialogue, and a shared commitment to regional stability.

He challenged all residents to treat personal and communal security as a shared responsibility and to support traditional authorities and security agencies in promoting lasting peace.

Appreciation and Charge to Citizens

Hon. Gyapong expressed gratitude to religious leaders for their continuous spiritual guidance and encouraged them to sustain the moral compass of society. He appealed to all residents to “pray not only with our lips but act with our hearts” — advocating for practical efforts toward peacebuilding, civic responsibility, and economic participation.

Conclusion

The 2025 National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving in Dambai was more than a religious observance — it was a timely intervention aimed at healing wounds, fostering unity, and reigniting hope in the future of the Oti Region and Ghana at large. As the Minister concluded, “May our thanksgiving rise as a sweet fragrance to the heavens, and may the blessings of the Almighty be poured in abundance on Oti Region and the entire nation.”

In his address to the students, Hon. Gyapong urged them to approach the examination with confidence and integrity. He cautioned them against engaging in any form of examination malpractice, emphasizing that success must be earned through hard work and honesty. “Do not depend on anyone, write what you have learned, and by God’s grace, you will pass,” he advised.

The Minister highlighted the significance of the BECE, describing it as a “carrier examination” that lays the foundation for the future careers of the students. He noted that whether a student aspires to become a lawyer, medical doctor, engineer, or any other professional, the outcome of the BECE plays a pivotal role. He further stressed that the exams being written are not solely for the students’ personal benefit but also for the pride and progress of their schools, families, communities, the Oti Region, and Ghana at large.

Hon. Gyapong underscored the importance the President and himself attach to the BECE, indicating that it determines the type of senior high school a student may gain admission to, the course of study to pursue, and ultimately, contributes to the nation’s future leadership and development.

He also expressed his profound appreciation to the teachers for their dedication in nurturing and preparing the students for the examination. Their hard work, he noted, is crucial to the academic success and personal growth of the candidates.

In concluding his remarks, the Regional Minister issued a strong warning to the invigilators, urging them to remain professional and not to condone or facilitate any examination malpractices. He emphasized that any form of misconduct could tarnish not only their personal image but also that of the Oti Region as a whole.

The visit by Hon. Gyapong was well received and served as a morale booster to both the students and the staff involved in the conduct of the examination. Present there were, the Oti Regional Minister Hon John Kwadwo Gyapong, Oti Regional Coordinating Director Harry Nii Kwatei Owoo, Oti Regional GES Director Mrs. Irene Jacquelinda Attabra, Krachi East Municipal Chief Executive Hon Safo Nketia.

During the engagement, the Chiefs and elders reaffirmed commitment to government initiatives and policies as well as projects commenced under previous administration.

The Regional Minister reiterated the commitment of His Excellency the President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama’s government resetting agenda in the region.

He recounted support of traditional authorities in championing the progress and development of the region and assured the chiefs and elders on government’s resolve to develop the country with support from chiefs and traditional leaders.

Hon. Gyapong announced to the delegation of the President John Dramani Mahama’s readiness to complete the Kpassa – Nkwanta Road, Agenda 111 hospital and E-block projects in Kpassa.

“I understand potable water is a challenge in Kpassa and plans are in the pipelines to revamp the dormant water treatment project in the area,” he said.

The Chiefs and elders pleaded the Minister for the Construction of a Nursing Training College in Kpassa; “given the population and other factors Kpassa is qualified to host the facility and my outfit will liaise with the Ministries of Health and Education to ensure the successful outcomes”.

In attendance were, Ubor Tassan Konja VI, Nana Owusu Nkuya, Nana Tokor II, Ubor Yalanjor sei, Ubor jayon Stephen, Ubor James Nikplikina, Nana Yussif Omari, Ubor Attah Nayina, Odikuro Talla Damanko and Konja Megi, the KOYA chairman for Kpassa among others.

The PMs affirmed their commitment to work collectively with MDCEs to support and promote the resetting agenda of government in developing the Oti region.

The PMs lamented lack of logistics to carry out their duties despite the huge burden of responsibility on the assembly members.

They appealed to the to help see to the completion of projects commenced by the previous government ranging from roads, hospitals among others to boost infrastructural development in the region.

Hon. Gyapong admonished the PMs to work hard, cooperative and stick to their mandate and liaise with their various MDCEs for the development of the region.

He touched on the crucial role the Presiding Members play in the annals of local government and charged them to let their performance show and shine and not to cecum to the pressure, be dictated to or compromise with the MDCEs for a personal interest.

The Regional Minister averred that Presiding Members (PM) are the heads of their respective General Assemblies hence they must not allow themselves to be controlled, manipulated or compromised for individual interest but allegiance to the people they serve, and the Constitution that empowers them.

Presiding Members present were Anthony K. Ahiable, Kadjebi; John Nteleye Mpoebi, Krachi Nchumuru; Edward Yilengne, Nkwanta South; Kennedy Abotsi, Krachi West; Jones Mawuli Peni, Biakoye; Abubakar Alhassan, Nkwanta North and Jacuith Andrews, Jasikan.

He appreciated the CEO decision to officially brief my office on their presence and activities in the region.

In their discussions, He commended MASLOC for the critical role they continue to play in supporting grassroots businesses and empowering livelihoods especially Women and other vulnerable groups in all.

Hon. John Gyapong also took the opportunity to express his confidence in the renewed leadership of H.E. John Dramani Mahama and called on all to support him through prayer and hard work.

Additionally, He appealed to the MASLOC CEO to consider supporting our School Feeding Programme caterers, many of whom lack adequate capital to start the feeding programme; timely reimbursement, and logistical support will go a long way to enhance the programme’s impact in the region.

He also assured the MASLOC team of my full support and collaboration, particularly in working with our Regional School Feeding Coordinator to ensure that qualified individuals are recruited to manage the programme effectively.

The Regional Minister charged the Regional MASLOC Coordinator to intensify efforts in recovering all outstanding loans in the region and I pledge my full support for it.

Together, we remain committed to the RESETTING agenda, progress, and development of the Oti Region.

The executives were present to congratulate and welcome the regional minister into the region and also declare their support for him towards the development of the region where the Minister admonished them to embrace unity as Queen mothers to champion the cause of women in the Oti region.

He reaffirmed outfit’s readiness and commitment to provide necessary support for the traditional authorities including the Queen mothers at large.

“I have a lot of programme for Queen mothers as well as world Bank project for Queen mothers . I encourage you to canvas for peace and unity and play their supporting role of advising the chiefs on traditional governance,” he said.

The Queenmothers tasked the Minister to help address challenges on farming, portable drinking water, subsidised farming inputs, unemployment,  poultry farming, promoting cultural heritage.

They charged the Minister to use his esteemed office to support the Queen mothers by organising workshops to educate and build their capacity on conflict resolution,  peace building among others for the benefit of Oti region.

Hon. Gyapong announced to the Queen mothers that Biakoye and Krachi East districts in the region are been earmarked to roll-out 7200 hectares of land for implementation of the irrigation project.

He reiterated that President John Dramani Mahama’s led government aims15,000 youth are expected to be employed across all the regions in the country, and assured the Queen mothers that employment of youth is underway.

He reaffirmed the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama government to working with women to ensure gender equality and with the aim to rollout the women’s Bank initiatives to employ only women.

The delegation was led by the Paramount Queen Mother and Chairperson of Buem State Queen Mothers,  Nana Apewbea III; others are Nana Okrebea II, Nana Buasumaa I, Nana Adzewaa II, Nana Boatemaa III, Nana Adjeibea Adjeibea, Nana Ochadebea II, Nana Gbadowea, Nana Bukawea II, Nana Okunubea, Okyemewaa Rose Danteh and Mrs Patience Smile Dane.

The board members were drawn from representatives of the nine Municipal and district Assemblies, Institute of Surveyors, Ghana National Association of Fishermen and Farmers, Regional House of Chiefs and Regional Lands Commission.

The board governed with a prescribed mandate to manage both private and public lands in the region.

This inauguration  marks a milestone for the development of the oti region and commended President John Dramani Mahama for hearing the plea of the people of Oti region in giving them a regional lands commission office.

Hon. Gyapong  cautioned the members against the use of their mandate to serve their parochial interest and the ministry will not hesitate to crack the whips on individual who may fall short to the laws.

He urged the board to hold stakeholders to promote sustainable land use and work to ensure lands are used economically.

The Regional Minister admonished the board to work tirelessly for a unity of purpose and ensure fair and equitable distribution of lands and spatial use  in the region.

The Board chaired by Nana Mprah Besemuna III with other members including Yaw Acheampong Amoah, Gazekpo Emmanuel, Felix Kwamla Seloame and Nana Akoto Musakyi III.

Other members of the board are Cyril Gadegbeku, John Mark Bekoe, Anebo Philip Kwaku, Akoporwiah Nathaniel, Ladzi Emmanuel, George Grant Dogli, Nana Sampson Fordjour, Richard Opoku, Fankibi Joseph, Silas Atikpo Brownson and Musah Mumuni Basit.

The Oti Regional Minister appeal to every resident to remain calm, exercise restraint, and channel grievances through the established peace-building mechanisms. Please note that the ban on carrying arms, ammunition, or offensive weapons is still in force anyone found in breach will face arrest and prosecution.

Let’s work together to safeguard the peace and security of our beloved Oti Region.

Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong

Oti Regional Minister

He deeply appreciate Nana Ayeng Anebo II’s unwavering dedication to peace and development. His call for adherence to constitutional principles in chieftaincy matters and transparency in revenue management aligns with our shared vision for a stable and thriving Oti Region. In response, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong assured the delegation of his commitment to investigating concerns around Internally Generated Funds (IGF) and pledged to work closely with traditional leaders to ensure accountability and fairness in resource allocation. Additionally, they revisited critical infrastructure projects, including the Nkwanta-Kpassa road and the Agenda 111 hospital, which remain key priorities under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

This engagement was a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between traditional leadership and government. He was grateful for the opportunity to bridge gaps, acknowledge past oversights, and reaffirm my dedication to inclusive governance. Together, we will build a stronger and more prosperous Oti Region!

The rest were Safo Nketia of Krachi East; Prosper Addo of Krachi West; Joseph Antwi of Nkwanta-South, and Isaiah Dordoe for Nkwanta North.

Messrs. Parke-Davis Magyigbe, of Jasikan, and Godfried Koffie of Guan scored 86 and 79 per cent respectively.

Before the confirmation process of the MDCEs at each of the assemblies, the government appointees of the assembly members were sworn into office by a Magistrate or Judge to constitute a full assembly. Assemblies without presiding members subsequently elected their respective Presiding Members (PM) before confirmation.

The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, in his remarks at Jasikan as the first assembly to confirm her MCE in Oti appealed to the assembly members not to hesitate to give the nominee hundred per cent (100%) confirmation to set the tone for the rest of the assemblies in Oti Region to emulate.    

He has been present at each of the assemblies, coordinated and monitored the confirmation process with the message that, the assembly members should vote responsibly to enable him to have the needed support to develop the region. 

At each assembly, he said since the municipals and districts were where development starts from, they should put aside partisan consideration and vote responsibly on competency line.

Mr Gyapong said the Oti Region was a baby, and as such they had to come together and put their shoulders to the wheel to stimulate its total development.“Development does not know any political party so you should unite to make the Oti Region the winner,” he said.

He gave the assurance that his doors were open to everyone to ensure the successful implementation of government programmes and policies.

Hon. Gyapong always ended his remarks by tasking the newly confirmed MDCEs to work hard and closely with the people of their various assemblies to ensure the resetting of Ghana.

The MDCEs in their acceptance remarks thanked the assembly for reposing confidence in them through the confirmation and also pledged to listen, learn and strive to ensure development in their various MDAs and Oti at large.

Conclusively, the confirmation of MDCEs in Oti Region ended on Wednesday April 9, 2025 at Biakoye District,

They lamented the fact that the Oti Region currently has no Category A school, and only a few institutions are in Category B leaving the majority in Category C. This, they explained, severely affects the calibre of students posted to the region, as top-performing students often choose Category A schools and are automatically placed elsewhere. CHASS pleaded for support in securing the needed facilities and improvements to help upgrade at least some of our schools to Category A status.

In response, He assured them of my full commitment to this cause that He will personally tour all SHSs and SHTSs in the region to gain firsthand insight into their needs. He also emphasized the need to groom excellence from the basic level, organize inter-school academic competitions, and intensify school selection awareness so that more students can confidently choose Oti-based schools.

He further encouraged heads to deepen parental involvement and take ownership of promoting their institutions. With the right leadership, upgraded infrastructure, and strong collaboration, we can raise the academic profile of our schools and retain our top-performing students within the region.

He remain committed to forwarding all these concerns to the Minister for Education and H.E. President John Dramani Mahama. Together, we will push for the completion of key projects and the provision of critical resources. Oti deserves Category A schools and with unity and determination, we will get there.