Minister nominee for the Ashanti Region, Dr Frank Amoakohene, has reaffirmed the commitment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government to fulfill campaign promises, with a focus on completing the numerous stalled projects in the region.

He described President John Dramani Mahama’s administration as “legacy-focused” and pledged to support the President in achieving his vision for the Ashanti Region.

Dr Amoakohene’s promise to honour the NDC’s promises reflects his deep commitment to the people of Ashanti, as he sets out to address long-standing infrastructure deficit in the region.

“I am here to ensure that President Mahama’s vision for Ashanti becomes a reality,” he stated. “Every promise made, every project left incomplete, will be completed. We are committed to bringing lasting change to the people of Ashanti.”

The Ashanti Region, with over 5 million inhabitants, is Ghana's second-most populous region. Yet, despite its significance, the region has faced challenges in infrastructure development. Key sectors like healthcare and trade have suffered from years of neglect.

A prime example of these issues is the Kejetia Market redevelopment. The largest market in the region’s capital, Kumasi, was demolished over a decade ago to make way for a modernisation project.

While the first phase of the redevelopment was completed, the second phase, which would accommodate more traders, has stalled, leaving many traders exposed to the elements in an incomplete space.

“It is unacceptable that this project has been delayed for so long,” he said firmly. “The traders have been waiting for over a decade, and the people of Ashanti deserve a completed modern marketplace. I am committed to ensuring that this project is finished so that the traders can work in better conditions, and the market can once again serve its full potential.”

The healthcare sector in Ashanti also requires urgent attention. Komfo Anokye Hospital, the only modern hospital in the region, continues to grapple with overcrowding and inadequate capacity to meet the needs of the population.

Additionally, planned healthcare facilities, such as the Sewua Regional Hospital and Afari Military Hospital, remain incomplete.

“The healthcare situation is critical,” Dr Amoakohene noted. “The people of Ashanti deserve access to quality healthcare, and we cannot allow these facilities to remain unfinished. I will ensure that the projects for Komfo Anokye Hospital, the regional hospital, and Afari Military Hospital are completed as a matter of priority.”

He is also determined to address broader development challenges in the region, including urban planning and business growth. “We need to create an environment where businesses can thrive and where inhabitants can access the services they need,” he explained. “Improving infrastructure, reducing profit margins, and focusing on key sectors such as agriculture and education will be central to our development efforts.”

Aligning with President Mahama’s approach that “government is continuous,” Dr Amoakohene stressed the importance of completing projects regardless of which administration started them.

“Every project that has been started, irrespective of the government in power, must be completed. We owe it to the people of Ashanti to honour the promises that have been made,” he said.

Reflecting on the political journey of both the NDC and the NPP, Dr Amoakohene stated that lessons have been learned from both sides.

“We have been in power before, and we have also been in opposition. The NPP has had its time in power, and now they are in opposition,” he said. “But we have learned from our own mistakes, as well as from the mistakes of others. This gives us the experience and the determination to move forward with a clear focus on the future.”

Dr Amoakohene also emphasised the strength of President Mahama’s leadership. “When President Mahama first ran for office, he came in like a lamb, but now he returns like a lion. He is determined to ensure that Ghana moves forward, and he will not allow anything or anyone to stand in the way of that progress.”

For Dr Amoakohene, the task ahead is personal. “I am deeply committed to the people of Ashanti,” he said. “I am here to ensure that every promise made is honoured, and every project started is completed. We are going to transform Ashanti, and I am honoured to be part of that transformation.”

As he awaits his confirmation by Parliament, Dr Amoakohene has already outlined plans to tackle the key issues in the region, from the completion of the Kejetia Market redevelopment to improving healthcare access.

With a firm commitment to completing stalled projects and fulfilling the vision of President Mahama, he is poised to lead the Ashanti Region into a new era of growth and development.