President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restructuring government and prioritising community-led development.

Speaking to a gathering of chiefs and residents in his visit to the Volta Region, he highlighted the strategic reduction in ministerial appointments and the pivotal role traditional leaders will play in advancing local governance and national progress.

This move, he explained, is not just about efficiency but a deliberate effort to empower grassroots leadership and direct resources to critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

“For every ministry, there is now a renewed sense of purpose, ensuring that they are aligned with the needs of the people,” Mahama remarked during his address.

He emphasised the importance of leveraging resources effectively, channeling them to sectors that have a direct impact on citizens' lives.

The president highlighted the pivotal role of traditional leaders in local governance. With the newly restructured Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Mahama envisions a collaborative approach where chiefs actively contribute to community-led development.

“Our chiefs have been custodians of our culture and progress for generations. Who better to guide us in fostering community-led development than these trusted leaders,” Mahama said.

This initiative aligns with his administration's philosophy that sustainable development begins at the grassroots level. By empowering traditional authorities, the government seeks to bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation at the community level.

Addressing concerns about appointments from the Volta Region, President Mahama assured citizens that their contributions and talents are valued.

Future appointments, he explained, will be guided by merit, competence, regional balance, gender equity, and a genuine commitment to serve.

“I do not doubt that the people of the Volta Region possess the human resource to play pivotal roles in shaping Ghana’s future,” he stated, emphasising inclusivity and fairness in his government’s approach.

President Mahama acknowledged the region's history of unfulfilled promises and pledged to end this era of neglect. His administration has already begun assessing key infrastructural needs in Volta, including:

Ho-Denu Road: A top priority due to its critical role in facilitating trade, tourism, and mobility.
Ho Airport: Plans to revitalize the airport, resume commercial aviation with smaller aircraft, and develop the route are underway.
Regional Youth Resource Center: Left to deteriorate, this center will be redeveloped to nurture young talent.

Prototype Markets: Modern markets are planned to empower local businesses and foster international trade with neighboring countries.