The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Akatsi South in the Volta region has outlined major interventions in security, agriculture, revenue mobilisation, infrastructure, and youth empowerment during the Second Ordinary Meeting of the Second Session of the Assembly, held at the ASMA Hall on August 28.

Addressing assembly members, heads of departments, security officials, and stakeholders, the MCE emphasised that the year’s development agenda has been guided by a focus on peace, economic growth, and improved social services for the people of Akatsi South.

Tackling Security Concerns

Security topped the agenda, with the MCE highlighting the recurring conflict between farmers and herdsmen over the destruction of farmlands by cattle.

To address this, a technical committee chaired by Lord P. Agbavor Jnr. Esq. has been constituted to develop bylaws and practical solutions aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.

The Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) said it continues to monitor other threats, including chieftaincy disputes, incidents of theft, and the increasing use of narcotics among youth.

He urged traditional leaders and residents to collaborate with the Assembly and security agencies to sustain peace as a foundation for development.

Revenue Mobilisation and Financial Performance

On revenue, the Assembly recorded GH₵482,124.86 by the end of July, representing 42.8% of its 2025 target of GH₵1,126,318.50. This marks an improvement over last year’s mid-year performance.

However, challenges remain, including inadequate revenue personnel, a lack of a reliable database, and limited technological tools for effective collection.

The MCE revealed that property rate mobilisation has been particularly poor, prompting management to consider outsourcing collection to private partners for improved efficiency and accountability.

Plans are also underway to repair broken-down Assembly vehicles to enhance revenue collection monitoring across the municipality.

Road Infrastructure Development

Roads continue to be a major demand from communities. The Assembly has completed the routine reshaping of 33.25 kilometers of feeder roads, linking farming communities to market centres. This, the MCE said, has eased transportation and enhanced access to markets.

Additionally, the Akatsi–Wute stretch has been earmarked for upgrading, while engagements are ongoing with the Regional Coordinating Council and the Ministry of Roads and Highways to prioritise Akatsi township roads under the next phase of urban road interventions.

Agriculture and Food Security

Agriculture remains the backbone of Akatsi South’s economy. Farmers have benefited from the government’s Feed Ghana programme through access to improved seeds and fertilizers.

In collaboration with OLAM Agro Ghana Ltd and NEW AGE, 70 farmers from eight communities cultivated 500 acres of rice this year, supported with fertilizer and weed killers on a repayable basis. Already, 60% of repayments have been recovered to extend support to other farmers.

The MCE disclosed that 112 farmer groups, with over 3,500 members, have been formed to benefit from government programmes. Plans are also in place to establish a Farmer Service Centre to provide mechanisation, input support, credit, and market access.

Furthermore, extension services have been strengthened with demonstration farms, while veterinary support is being offered to livestock farmers. The Assembly is also exploring irrigation systems to mitigate the impact of erratic rainfall.

Water Supply Projects

To improve access to potable water, the Assembly has earmarked borehole projects for CHPS compounds in Gui, Tsigbene, and Dzogadze, among others. Plans are also in motion for mechanised boreholes in water-stressed communities, alongside discussions with partners to expand small-town water systems.

Youth Empowerment and Skills Development

Youth empowerment remains a priority. The Assembly is working with the National Youth Authority (NYA) and partners to provide training in tailoring, hairdressing, carpentry, and ICT.

The Youth Employment Agency (YEA) has recruited and trained Community Protection Assistants and Fire Protection Assistants, while more opportunities are expected under the Ambulance Service, Community Teaching Assistants, and Health Extension programmes.

In addition, NYA recently trained 10 master trainers in Ho between August 21–23, while 50 apprentices have begun training with a monthly stipend to support transportation.

The Ghana Enterprise Agency, through the Business Advisory Centre, is also offering support to small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs).

Health and Education Interventions

In health, the Assembly plans to support outreach services in deprived areas and improve facilities in selected CHPS zones, including Ahlepedo and Zuta.

On education, infrastructure deficits remain the biggest challenge. The Assembly has initiated plans to construct a KG block at Dzuepe, a 3-unit classroom block at Wodome, and a 6-unit block at Zuta. New desks will also be provided for schools across the municipality.

The MCE, who chairs the Municipal Education Oversight Committee, stressed the need to improve enrollment and retention in schools, particularly in communities with high dropout rates.

Call for Collective Action

The MCE concluded by calling on Assembly Members, traditional leaders, and residents to unite in addressing challenges and harnessing growth opportunities.

“Let us continue to strengthen community engagement, promote accountability, and ensure that every citizen sees the benefits of decentralisation in their daily lives,” he said.