The Chief of Aburi, Otoobuor Djan Kwasi II, has called for the privatisation of the Aburi Botanical Gardens to invite investment to the tourist facility.

He said private investment could revitalise the Gardens and enhance its tourism potential to improve business in the area.

Otoobuor Kwasi said the Gardens had lost its value and pride in recent years due to neglect by the government, lack of maintenance, and bureaucracy in its management.

Otoobuor Kwesi made the call last Saturday when he played special guest at fun games organised by the Papaye Fast Food at the company’s yet-to-be-opened Papaye Recreational Village at Konkonuru in the Aburi South municipality.

“If we give it to individuals to manage, they wouldn’t have to consult anyone before improving the place; they will become the sole decision makers in the management of the place, and that will help improve the condition of the place at a faster pace,” Otoobuor Kwasi said.

“The Garden is under the Ministry of Local Government, and if any development has to take place, we have to speak to the Department of Parks and Gardens before they also transfer the information to the Ministry. This could take years before they arrive at a decision, and that hinders the development of the place,” he added.

Dr Samir Kalmoni (left) welcoming Nana Otoobuor Djan Kwasi II to the fun games. Picture: BENEDICT OBUOBI

The Aburi chief said placing the garden under the Ministry of Local Government looked a bit misplaced, arguing that the Ministry of Tourism was better placed to manage the tourist facility.

He commended the founder of Papaye Fast Food, Dr Samir Kalmoni, for his sense of business and quest to help develop his community.

“When he came to purchase the land, we had no idea what he was going to use it for until he told us that he would use it as a recreational centre.

Initially, we were doubtful as to whether he would be able to meet our expectations, but with the progress made so far, we are certain that we are going to have a world class recreational centre in our community very soon,” he said.

Fun games

The fun games were organised for the staff of the company and some individuals from various media outlets to help strengthen the bond between the company and the media.

Recreational centre

The Chief Executive Officer of Papaye Fast Food, Mr Divine Asiedu, said the place would be a world class recreational facility with a hotel, amusement centres, a place for wedding receptions, restaurants and other services.

He said the company was putting in much effort to ensure the facility opened by December this year.