Jerry Yao Ameko has been overwhelmingly endorsed as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Adaklu District, securing all 19 votes cast, representing a unanimous 100 per cent endorsement by the Assembly members.

His confirmation marks a new chapter for the district, as he has pledged to drive economic transformation, particularly through agribusiness and infrastructure development.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Ameko expressed profound gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and the people of Adaklu for their confidence in his leadership. He outlined his vision to modernise agriculture, tackle unemployment, and foster economic growth in line with the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy.

Transforming Adaklu into an Agricultural Hub

Mr Ameko emphasised that Adaklu is blessed with vast arable land and hardworking people capable of turning the district into a major agricultural hub. However, he acknowledged pressing challenges such as unemployment, conflicts between crop farmers and cattle herders, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to agribusiness opportunities.

To address these challenges, he committed to attracting investment into large-scale farming, promoting mechanisation, and expanding irrigation systems to support year-round farming. He further announced plans to establish agro-processing industries to add value to farm produce, create jobs, and boost the local economy.

“We shall provide financial and technical support to farmers and agripreneurs through public-private partnerships, ensuring that Adaklu becomes a leader in agribusiness within the Volta Region,” he assured.

The 24-Hour Economy: Job Creation and Youth Empowerment

Mr Ameko underscored the NDC’s 24-hour economy policy as a game-changer for Adaklu, envisioning the establishment of night markets, agro-processing centres, and transport services that will operate around the clock. He pledged to empower the youth with vocational and entrepreneurial skills, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to economic growth.

“Young men and women are the backbone of our development, and we will leave no one behind in our pursuit of prosperity,” he stated.

Education and Infrastructure Development

As an educationist, the new DCE reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure by ensuring that schools are equipped with modern facilities, improving teacher motivation, and introducing scholarship schemes for brilliant but needy students. He also promised to expand technical and vocational training programmes to align with the demands of the modern job market.

On infrastructure, Mr Ameko pledged to improve road networks, ensure access to potable water, expand healthcare facilities, and enhance sanitation across the district. He also committed to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by creating an enabling business environment for growth and innovation.

Peaceful Coexistence and Conflict Resolution

Recognising the longstanding conflicts between crop farmers and cattle herders in Adaklu, Mr Ameko promised to foster peaceful coexistence through dialogue and policy frameworks that safeguard the interests of both parties. He proposed the introduction of designated grazing lands and effective conflict resolution mechanisms to ensure harmony within the district.

A Call for Unity and Development

He called on all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, political actors, civil society organisations, and citizens, to unite in advancing Adaklu’s development agenda. He assured that his administration would remain open to constructive dialogue and innovative contributions that would propel the district forward.

Regional Minister Commends Massive Endorsement

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, commended Mr Ameko’s 100 per cent endorsement, noting that it was the third such overwhelming approval in the region, following similar endorsements in the Akatsi North and Agortime Ziope districts.

He emphasised that President John Dramani Mahama is committed to resetting and developing the Volta Region and the entire nation. Mr Gunu expressed optimism that the newly confirmed DCEs would work diligently to achieve the government’s development goals.

With Mr Ameko at the helm of Adaklu District, expectations are high for a transformational era focused on agricultural modernisation, job creation, and infrastructure expansion. His leadership will be closely watched as he embarks on this ambitious journey to reshape the district’s future.