Akroso: Nana Odam Gyamfi, Paramount Chief of the Akroso Traditional Council, has called on the Volta River Authority (VRA) to engage affected communities in Krachi East Municipality to address a longstanding dispute over lands acquired for the Akosombo Dam project more than five decades ago. The Paramount Chief made the appeal during a stakeholder engagement forum organised by the VRA as part of efforts to discuss environmental management and land use issues within communities affected by the Authority's operations.
According to Ghana News Agency, Nana Gyamfi highlighted the absence of clear documentation and proper boundary demarcation on portions of the acquired lands, which has created uncertainty among chiefs, landowners, and residents for over 52 years. He emphasized the need for dialogue and technical interventions to bring a lasting resolution to the matter, as the land is considered a vital asset for future generations.
The Paramount Chief stated that unresolved boundary concerns have generated worries among local communities regarding land ownership and usage rights. He appealed to the VRA to engage with affected communities and facilitate proper surveying and redemarcation of the boundaries to ensure peace and mutual understanding prevail. He noted that these ongoing issues continue to affect landowners and farmers and pose challenges to harmonious relations between traditional authorities and the VRA.
Responding to the concerns, Mrs Rhoda Arthur, Principal Community Relations Officer of the VRA, assured stakeholders that the Authority remained committed to addressing land management and boundary issues through dialogue and community engagement. She disclosed that the VRA had initiated a pilot bamboo plantation project on portions of its acquired lands to promote environmental sustainability, strengthen land management practices, and support community livelihoods.
Mrs Arthur explained that the initiative would aid in the identification and demarcation of boundaries within the Authority's operational areas. She emphasized that if successful, the pilot project would be expanded to other areas, with efforts focused on proper boundary identification and promoting environmental conservation and peaceful coexistence with host communities. She added that bamboo cultivation could provide alternative livelihood opportunities for residents while helping to protect water bodies and catchment areas.
Participants at the forum underscored the importance of sustained dialogue, transparency, and proper documentation in resolving land-related concerns and strengthening relations between the VRA and host communities. The forum concluded with a collective call for continued stakeholder engagement to ensure that outstanding boundary issues are addressed in a manner that promotes peace, development, and mutual trust.