Presidential aspirant of the New Patriotic Party, Kwabena Agyepong, has pledged to pursue balanced national development by tackling poor urban planning while simultaneously investing in rural transformation.

Addressing stakeholders in Accra on Tuesday, January 20, Mr Agyepong said Ghana’s development challenges stem largely from neglect of spatial planning and unequal attention to rural communities.

He warned that without a clear urban development strategy, cities would continue to expand in an unregulated manner, placing pressure on infrastructure, housing and public services.

Mr Agyepong said his administration would prioritise the input of built environment experts to ensure that urban centres are developed in a structured and sustainable way.

“At the heart of my vision is planning. We cannot grow our cities by accident. We need professionals who understand how to design cities that work for people and businesses,” he said.

On rural development, he argued that providing modern infrastructure, social services and economic opportunities in villages and small towns would unlock their potential and promote inclusive growth.

“Development must reach every corner of this country. When our rural communities have opportunities and modern amenities, we reduce pressure on our cities and build a stronger, more balanced Ghana,” Agyepong stated.