Hohoe: Mr Prosper Kumi, the Hohoe Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), has expressed his appreciation to the World Bank, alongside the Ministries of Finance and Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, for their significant contributions to various development projects within the Municipality.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Kumi highlighted the transformative potential of projects such as the Hohoe Central Market, an industrial site, storm drains, and a bus terminal. He emphasized that once completed, these projects would greatly enhance the economic prospects of the Municipality and its residents. Mr Kumi made these remarks during a working visit by officials from the World Bank and the Ministries, who were there to assess the progress and state of the ongoing projects. He further noted that the livelihood of many individuals is tied to the successful completion of these initiatives.
Mr Kumi acknowledged that while there have been delays in the completion of some projects, these challenges arise from various sources. He expressed optimism that the visit and engagement with the visiting team would facilitate solutions to these difficulties. He also pointed out Hohoe's strategic position in contributing to national economic growth. He mentioned that storm drains and pedestrian walkways are major projects that the Assembly aims to undertake with further funding, although some progress has been made on the walkways.
Madam Doris Amu, President of the Hohoe Market Queens, conveyed her gratitude to the government and the visiting team for their efforts in fostering development in the Municipality. She urged for expedited work on market projects to provide more space for market women.
A team member briefing the Ghana News Agency explained that the visit was part of a World Bank mission. Annually, the World Bank conducts inspections of its funded projects to assess on-ground progress. This inspection, termed the Implementation Support Mission (ISM), occurs twice a year and is conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Finance, and the Office of the Head of Local Government Service.
The team inspected various Urban Development Grant (UDG) projects, including the industrial estate, transport terminal, storm drains, markets, and roads. They also aimed to understand the implementation challenges faced by the Assembly, which were affecting the release of anticipated funds.