The Western Region Development Dialogue has officially taken place, bringing together key stakeholders to deliberate on pressing challenges affecting the region’s growth. The discussions centred on critical issues such as illegal mining, inadequate infrastructure, ecotourism, and environmental degradation—all of which continue to impact livelihoods and economic progress.
Spearheaded by the Western Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), the dialogue aimed to foster meaningful discussions and propose actionable solutions for sustainable development. Participants included government representatives, industry players, and community leaders, all of whom engaged in thought-provoking conversations on advancing the region’s development.
During the dialogue, the CEO of Architectural Spring Ltd, Eugene Ofori Atta, suggested a revision of the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. He proposed an incentive system that would encourage parents who can afford to pay their children’s fees to do so.
“There should be incentives for those willing to pay school fees. One idea I’ve considered is linking the duration of National Service to the policy—students who benefit from Free SHS could serve for two years, while those whose parents pay their fees would complete just one year. This could encourage a balance, allowing those who can afford to pay to do so,” he suggested.
He further highlighted the urgent need for improved healthcare facilities in the Western Region. He emphasized that constructing well-equipped hospitals in communities would ensure that rural residents receive quality healthcare without having to travel long distances to regional hospitals.
“We need to decentralize our healthcare system by building smaller, yet well-equipped hospitals in various communities. That way, if someone lives in Abuasi or Mampong, they can access quality healthcare locally instead of making long trips to Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital,” he stated.
The Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association, Desmond Cudjoe, underscored the need for the dialogue.
“It is a clarion call to redefine priorities through collaboration. As journalists, we serve as society’s watchdogs and bridges—connecting policymakers, communities, and stakeholders. This forum embodies our commitment to fostering unity among the Regional Minister, MPs, CSOs, traditional authorities, and YOU, the people, to co-create solutions,” he stated.
Various speakers, notably Dr. Richard Gyimah of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources (representing the minister, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah), also took part. Other speakers included Nana Yaa Amoako-Adu of Integrity Logistics, Albert Ababio, the regional manager of AGI, Dr. Ishmael Quaicoe of UMaT, the MP for Kwesimintsim, Hon. Lawyer Fiifi Buckman, Joseph Cudjoe (a former Minister for Public Enterprises), and a host of others.
The dialogue, funded with the support of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), provided a platform for practical solutions to the region’s developmental challenges, with stakeholders hoping that the insights shared will translate into meaningful policy actions.
Source: starrfm.com.gh
