Ketu south: A former Assembly Member for the Viepe-Tokor Electoral Area in the Ketu South Municipality of the Volta Region, Mr. Victor Ayaku, has raised concerns over the transparency of both the registration and distribution processes under the government's 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' initiative in the Ketu South Municipality.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ayaku expressed his concerns in a press statement, emphasizing the need for the programme, intended to support households through poultry production, to be implemented in a fair and open manner devoid of political influence. He highlighted the issue of limited awareness about the registration process, which he believes has prevented many eligible residents from benefiting from the initiative.
Mr. Ayaku shared his personal experience, stating, "I would have also registered for the initiative, but I did not even know when the registration started," underscoring that the lack of publicity may have excluded many potential beneficiaries. He emphasized that the initiative, a GHS245 million government intervention, is designed to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods, and should not be viewed as a reward system for political party loyalists.
He further alleged that reports within the municipality suggested the distribution of the birds may have been biased towards individuals with political affiliations, rather than being based on genuine need. The former Assembly Member called on the Municipal Chief Executive, the Municipal Director of Agriculture, and other coordinators to clarify the approved distribution model, beneficiary selection criteria, registration procedures, data capture processes, and the level of public sensitization prior to the exercise.
Mr. Ayaku stressed the importance of ensuring that the allocation per beneficiary aligns with national guidelines and called for transparency in the supervision of the distribution process. He urged authorities to facilitate equal access to the programme for all residents, regardless of political background, to maintain public trust and confidence.
He cautioned that failing to address these issues could prompt further actions through lawful and democratic means to demand accountability. The 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' initiative is part of the government's broader strategy to promote poultry production, create employment, and enhance food security across the country.