Accra: Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has attributed the resounding support for President John Dramani Mahama in the 2024 General Election to his commendable leadership and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)'s developmental achievements in the region. Gunu emphasized the preference of the Volta Region's populace for "experience over experiment" during the President's Citizens' Engagement in Ho.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Gunu stated that the Volta Region provided President Mahama with 90.2 percent of the presidential vote and all parliamentary seats due to his proven track record, the NDC manifesto, and a historical pattern of significant regional development under NDC governance. He highlighted that the Volta Regional Coordinating Council is actively collaborating with traditional authorities and the Regional Peace Council to ensure peace and attract investment.
The Minister revealed that the Council is focusing on enhancing the capacity of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to foster local economic development and improve service delivery. Collaborative efforts among ministries, departments, and agencies are also being prioritized to expedite the President's development agenda.
Highlighting ongoing projects, Mr Gunu noted the steady progress of several flagship government initiatives, including Keta Port, sea defense projects, road infrastructure under the 'Big Push' initiative, and water supply expansion programs. He disclosed that 618 development projects have been completed or initiated by the region's 18 Municipal and District Assemblies, facilitated by the release of 80 percent of the District Assemblies Common Fund.
Education in the region is also seeing significant investments, with over 971 GETFund-funded projects underway, benefiting all public Senior High and Technical Schools. Communities like Anyako, Konu, and Seva, which faced prolonged water shortages, now have access to potable water through government interventions.
Mr Gunu also highlighted the impact of the 24-Hour Economy Market Programme, the training of approximately 1,000 girls in ICT, and the distribution of 900 laptops under the One Million Coders Programme. He mentioned the decentralization of operations by national institutions, creating employment opportunities in the region.
The Minister announced the establishment of the Volta Youth Development Fund and the proposed 1,500-acre industrial park at Adaklu as part of efforts to promote industrialization and create sustainable jobs. He also detailed the benefits of the National Apprenticeship Programme and the Youth Employment Initiative.
Expressing his gratitude, Mr Gunu thanked President Mahama and various stakeholders for their support in advancing the development agenda of the Volta Region.