Kassena-nankana west: The Kassena-Nankana West District Assembly has commenced several development projects across different communities to enhance education, water access, and maternal health within the district. The projects, which are valued at GH?3,589,504.23, are financed through the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) and include constructing a maternity block, solar-powered mechanised boreholes in selected senior high schools, and a classroom block.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Stephen Aeke Akurugu, the District Chief Executive, and Mr. Nikyema Billa Alamzy, the Member of Parliament for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, participated in the sod-cutting ceremony to mark the commencement of these projects. The projects, which have been contracted to different companies, are expected to be completed and handed over to the Assembly within six months.
In the Paga Bonia community, the Assembly initiated the construction of a three-unit classroom block for Bonia Primary School, valued at more than GH?1.39 million. The project aims to improve access to quality education and provide a conducive learning environment. The facility, managed by Albak Legacy Enterprise, will also include a headteacher's office, storage spaces, changing rooms to support menstrual hygiene management, and complete electrical installations.
To address water shortages at Paga Senior High School, the Assembly also launched the construction of a solar-powered mechanised borehole with a 1,000-litre overhead polytank. This project, executed by Welcom Plus Limited, is set to ensure a consistent water supply across the school, enhancing sanitation and increasing instructional time by reducing the need for students to search for water.
Mr. Akurugu stated that similar water projects are scheduled for Sirigu Integrated Senior High School, Chiana Senior High School, and Zenga Senior High School, serving approximately 2,000 students collectively. The cost of the four solar-powered mechanised borehole projects is estimated at GH?1,260,508.20.
Further enhancing healthcare delivery, the Assembly has also started constructing a maternity facility at the Mirigu Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound. This project aims to improve maternal healthcare in the area and will include necessary facilities such as a delivery room, a resting area for mothers, and accommodation for healthcare staff.
The maternity facility, costing GH?936,750.89 and undertaken by Awalna Engineering Service Limited, will be equipped with essential medical furniture and equipment to support quality maternal healthcare services.
During the sod-cutting ceremonies, Mr. Akurugu reaffirmed the government's pledge to meet the community's development needs, recognizing their support during the 2024 general elections. The MP urged community leaders and residents to support the contractors to ensure timely completion of the projects.
Representing Naba Anthony Anonsona Aatsige Abisa III, the Paramount Chief of the Mirigu Traditional Area, Mr. Roland Anyedina expressed gratitude for the maternity block, noting its significance for the community. Mr. Francis Adipare, a District Public Health Nurse, highlighted the pressing need for the facility, citing the high number of annual deliveries despite limitations at the Mirigu CHPS compound.