President John Dramani Mahama has addressed a wide range of concerns raised by residents during a citizens’ engagement in the Bono Region, outlining government’s plans across education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social protection.
Responding to questions from participants, the President provided clarity on policy directions and ongoing interventions aimed at improving livelihoods and accelerating development.
On education and healthcare, President Mahama announced renewed support for medical training in the region.
“Government has allocated 10 million cedis to support the revival of the University of Energy and Natural Resources Medical School to enhance medical training and healthcare delivery in this region,” he stated.
He also revealed plans to establish a Media Development Fund to strengthen journalism, particularly in underserved communities.
“This initiative will support journalists, especially those in deprived areas, through sponsorship opportunities and the provision of modern multimedia equipment,” he explained.
Addressing concerns about sports infrastructure, the President disclosed that government intends to construct new facilities across the country.
“In the short term, we plan to construct three regional stadia designed as multipurpose facilities for sports and community use,” he said.
On allegations of misappropriation of funds at the municipal level, President Mahama stressed the need for accountability grounded in evidence.
“Such claims must be supported with credible evidence to enable proper investigation and ensure accountability,” he cautioned.
Turning to infrastructure, he announced a major financing arrangement to improve road networks.
“Government has secured 500 million dollars from the World Bank to rehabilitate feeder roads nationwide, and communities such as Wenchi will benefit,” he noted.
The President also addressed employment concerns in the public sector, particularly for teachers and nurses.
“The Ministry of Finance has granted clearance for a new system of annual recruitment of teachers starting from 2025, and the same approach will apply to nurses to strengthen our healthcare workforce,” he said.
On secondary education, he outlined steps to expand access and improve infrastructure.
“We will complete 30 abandoned E-block projects as part of efforts to eliminate the double-track system, while also constructing new day secondary schools in major cities,” he stated.
Regarding telecommunications, the President assured citizens that reforms to the SIM card registration process are ongoing.
“We will continue to review and improve the SIM card registration process to ensure efficiency and better service delivery,” he said.
On healthcare infrastructure, President Mahama provided an update on the Agenda 111 hospital projects.
“The Minister for Health has tasked AESL to assess all Agenda 111 projects so that those near completion can be prioritised, while we continue to secure funding for the rest,” he explained.
The President also highlighted increased support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), noting significant improvements in funding and social interventions.
“Allocation to PWDs has been increased from 3 percent to 5 percent of the Common Fund, and with more funds going directly to assemblies, support has significantly improved,” he said.
He added that government is expanding educational support and assistive interventions.
“PWDs will benefit from free education from basic to university level, and we are piloting the distribution of electronic wheelchairs through the Ghana Society of the Disabled,” he disclosed.
On local infrastructure, President Mahama announced progress on key road projects in Sunyani.
“Work has begun on the Outer Ring Road, and designs for the Inner Ring Road have been completed, with budgetary provisions being made,” he said.
He also provided an update on plans for a new airport in Sunyani to address limitations of the existing facility.
“The current airport cannot be expanded due to surrounding development, so we have secured new land for a modern airport with a 2.4 kilometre runway. Groundbreaking will take place soon,” he revealed.
President Mahama reiterated government’s commitment to inclusive development and responsive governance, assuring citizens that their concerns remain central to policy decisions.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
