Accra: Mr Mahama Ayariga, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has stated that transforming Zongo communities could act as a catalyst for addressing broader development challenges across Ghana. He emphasized that enhancing living conditions, infrastructure, and economic opportunities in these communities would not only benefit residents but also provide practical solutions to some of the country's pressing issues.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister made these remarks at the Zongo Chiefs Conference in Accra, organized by the Ministry on the theme: 'The Zongo Development Agenda.' The conference emphasized measures to redevelop Zongo communities and improve the livelihoods of their residents. Mr Ayariga pointed out that the challenges facing Zongo communities, particularly among youth and women, required a collective effort involving community leaders and government.
He highlighted the disparity between Mamobi and neighboring communities, noting that while apartments under construction in the area are valued at approximately $700,000 each, rooms in Mamobi are rented for less than GHS1,000. This stark contrast underscores the need for investment to unlock the economic potential of Zongo communities. Mr Ayariga expressed the government's readiness to support Zongo leaders in spearheading the redevelopment process, with assurances from the Finance Minister for necessary support.
President John Dramani Mahama has also entrusted the Minister with the mission to make a significant impact in Zongo communities during his tenure. The redevelopment agenda aims to tackle issues such as poor sanitation, inadequate housing, lack of toilets, poor road networks, and challenges in extending pipe-borne water to homes. Many Zongo communities have developed without adequate planning, complicating the provision of essential infrastructure and services.
Mr Ayariga clarified that redevelopment efforts would not involve relocating residents. Instead, the focus is on improving the living conditions within the communities. He urged Zongo leaders to take ownership of the redevelopment process and collaborate with the government to create structures for efficient resource allocation.
Acknowledging previous initiatives like the Zongo Development Fund and a dedicated Zongo ministry, Mr Ayariga emphasized a new approach that gives more responsibility to the communities, with government support. He stressed that community ownership would dispel fears of displacement and aimed to reorganize Zongo communities into more functional, efficient, and liveable spaces while creating economic opportunities for young people.
He pledged to collaborate with chiefs, religious leaders, and youth representatives to initiate a process that would yield tangible results and contribute to Ghana's broader transformation.