President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive development during a citizens’ engagement in the Bono Region as part of his nationwide community outreach tour.
Addressing residents, traditional leaders, and stakeholders, the President expressed gratitude for the warm reception and underscored the importance of direct engagement with the Ghanaian people.
“We recognise that the people of Ghana entrusted us with the mandate to govern, and we remain firmly committed to transparency and accountability. It is for this reason that we pledged to tour the country and account directly to the people,” he stated.
He explained that the Bono Region marks the beginning of a broader national exercise aimed at updating citizens on government activities while inspecting ongoing development projects.
As part of the tour, President Mahama highlighted a nationwide initiative to construct modern 24-hour markets across all districts to boost economic activity.
“These markets are designed to stimulate round-the-clock business activities and will include essential facilities such as police stations, daycare centres, cold stores, and banking services, including a dedicated Women’s Development Bank,” he noted.
The President disclosed that he had earlier visited Dormaa, where he joined the Dormaahene to cut sod for one of the market projects.
On infrastructure, he provided assurances on the Jinijini–Sampa road project, noting that it would be delivered on schedule.
“I am pleased to assure you that this important road will be completed and commissioned by the end of 2027,” he said.
In Sunyani, the President also inspected GETFund-supported projects at Sunyani Senior High School, including new dormitory blocks, a science laboratory under construction, and teachers’ accommodation.
Touching on public financing, President Mahama announced the removal of the capping and realignment policy, which is expected to increase funding to key statutory institutions.
“GETFund and the National Health Insurance Scheme are now receiving increased resources, while District Assemblies are accessing 80 percent of the Common Fund directly to accelerate development at the local level,” he explained.
He further commended the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, for his management of the debt exchange programme, adding that the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure agenda is being financed through domestic resources.
“When such projects are underway, they create opportunities for traders, artisans, and many others who depend on these activities for their livelihoods,” he added.
On the economy, the President acknowledged the impact of global geopolitical tensions on fuel prices but assured Ghanaians of government interventions to ease the burden.
“While global developments have led to increases in fuel prices, we have put measures in place to cushion the impact and make life more manageable for our people,” he said.
President Mahama also stressed the importance of entrepreneurship and skills development, particularly among the youth. “Government alone cannot provide jobs for everyone.
Through programmes such as Adwumawura and the National Apprenticeship Programme, we are supporting young people to acquire skills and start their own ventures,” he emphasised.
He encouraged young people to take advantage of technical and vocational training opportunities and urged citizens to enrol in government flagship programmes.
“Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous economy for all,” he concluded.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
