John Dramani Mahama, the Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has pledged significant development for the Gwiraman area in the Evalue Gwira Constituency if elected in the upcoming elections.
During a campaign stop in Kutukrom as part of his Western Regional tour, Mr.Mahama outlined a series of ambitious plans aimed at addressing key issues in the community.
The Gwira Bridge: A Priority Project
Addressing the crowd in Kutukrom, John Mahama emphasized the urgent need for infrastructure development in the area.
He announced that constructing the Gwira Bridge would be the first project under his administration.
“I believe in the will of God, and I am confident that the NDC will emerge victorious. As the Nkosuohene (development chief) of Gwiraman, it is my duty to bring progress to this area. I promise that right after my swearing-in, the construction of the Gwira Bridge will begin,” he assured.
Improving Communication Networks
Highlighting the lack of reliable network coverage in Gwiraman and surrounding communities, John Mahama expressed concern about the digital exclusion in the region.
“It is unacceptable for any community to lack mobile network coverage in this 21st century. During my tenure as Deputy and later Minister of Communication, we expanded mobile phone usage across the country. When the NDC is given the mandate, we will ensure that all communities in Gwiraman have access to reliable network coverage,” he declared.
Road Rehabilitation: A Personal Commitment
John Mahama also addressed the deplorable state of roads in the constituency, sharing his firsthand experience of traveling on the Kutukrom road.
He assured residents that road rehabilitation would be a priority.
“I have personally experienced the poor state of the road to Kutukrom, and I understand your frustration. I promise that, with God’s help, the next time I visit Kutukrom as President, you will see a fully repaired and modern road,” he stated confidently.
Reforming Small-Scale Mining
On the contentious issue of small-scale mining, Mr..Mahama acknowledged its importance to the local economy but stressed the need for sustainable practices.
He revealed plans to modernize small-scale mining to protect the environment while supporting miners.
“Small-scale mining itself is not illegal, but the destruction of our lands and water bodies is a major concern. Under an NDC government, we will implement better policies to regulate mining activities. Those granted concessions will undergo training at the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa to learn sustainable mining techniques. This will ensure the protection of our lands for future generations,” Mr. Mahama explained.
Additionally, he announced plans to employ local youth in environmental restoration efforts. They would receive the necessary resources to plant trees and crops to reclaim degraded lands.
To improve accessibility to licensing services, he promised to establish local offices for the Minerals and Forestry Commissions in mining districts, eliminating the need for long trips to Accra.
Reviving Agriculture and Supporting Farmers
Farmers, John Mahama said, would be a top priority under his administration.
He pledged to reintroduce the free fertilizer program and provide other essential farming inputs to support their work.
He also vowed to revive the cocoa sector, which he said had suffered under the current government.
“When the NDC was in power, we ensured that farmers had access to fertilizers and other inputs to boost their productivity. We will bring back these programs and restore the collapsed cocoa sector,” he assured.
Extending Electricity to All Communities
John Mahama expressed disappointment at the current government’s failure to complete the electrification project initiated by the NDC.
He promised to extend electricity to the eight remaining communities in Gwiraman that were left without power.
“The NDC extended electricity to nearly all towns in Gwiraman, leaving only eight communities. It’s disheartening that the NPP has neglected these areas. When the NDC returns to power, we will ensure these communities finally receive electricity,” he affirmed.
A Vision of Hope and Progress
John Mahama’s promises reflect a vision of comprehensive development for the Gwiraman area.
From infrastructure and communication to mining and agriculture, his proposed initiatives aim to uplift the community and address its pressing challenges.
As the campaign continues, residents of Gwiraman await the possibility of a brighter future under an NDC-led government.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites✍️) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭
