President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to inclusive development and balanced regional growth with the launch of the Oxygen City housing project in Ho in the Volta Region.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony, President Mahama said the project goes beyond housing construction and represents a broader national vision aimed at transforming communities across Ghana.
“We are gathered here not merely to cut the sod for another housing project, but to affirm a deliberate national vision, a vision anchored in inclusive development, balanced regional growth, and the provision of dignified housing as a cornerstone of national transformation,” the President stated.
He recalled his 2024 campaign promise to ensure equitable distribution of national resources, stressing that the Volta Region is receiving its fair share of development.
“As I said during the 2024 campaign, we shall ensure that every region gets its fair share of the national cake, and today the Volta Region is getting its fair share,” he said.
President Mahama described housing as a critical indicator of societal progress and a central pillar of the government’s Reset Agenda.
“A safe and decent home is not a privilege for a few; it is a fundamental requirement for human dignity, economic productivity, social stability, and national cohesion. That is why housing occupies a central place in our Reset Agenda,” he noted.
He explained that the government is rethinking urban development by moving away from uncoordinated urban sprawl toward integrated and well-planned communities.
“We are moving towards fully serviced and economically integrated communities, designed not only for today’s needs, but for tomorrow’s opportunities,” the President said.
According to President Mahama, the Oxygen City project exemplifies the benefits of collaboration between state institutions, traditional authorities, and the private sector.
“This project demonstrates what becomes possible when state institutions work in partnership with traditional authorities and private sector actors to unlock land responsibly and create sustainable communities,” he added.
The President highlighted the significance of the project’s location, noting that the expansion of TDC Ghana Limited beyond the original Tema acquisition area reflects a conscious policy direction.
“This is not accidental. It is part of a deliberate policy to address Ghana’s housing deficit, which affects working families, young professionals, and public sector workers the most,” he said.
He further stressed that addressing the housing deficit requires an integrated approach.
“Housing cannot be delivered in isolation. It must come with roads, water, sanitation, transport systems, schools, healthcare facilities, and economic opportunities,” President Mahama explained.
President Mahama described Oxygen City as a complete urban ecosystem that will enable residents to live, work, and access services within the same geographical space.
He also underscored the strategic importance of the Volta Region, describing it as an administrative centre, educational hub, tourism destination, and emerging investment corridor.
“With improving connectivity and its strategic location, Hope is well-positioned to play a stronger role in Ghana’s national development strategy,” he said.
According to the President, Oxygen City is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the region.
“This development will expand housing supply, attract domestic and foreign investment, create jobs, and strengthen the Volta corridor’s contribution to the national economy,” he stated.
President Mahama concluded by reiterating his commitment to people-centred governance.
“As President, my overriding priority remains people-centred development, development that improves lives, creates opportunity, and leaves no region and no Ghanaian behind,” he said.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
