The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has assured the people of the region of the government’s commitment to implementing programmes and projects aimed at addressing the challenges faced by deprived communities.

He stated that the government’s focus on resetting the country would prioritise addressing the issues affecting the people of Ghana, including those in deprived communities.

While addressing the chiefs and people of Zongo communities in the Western Region, who paid a courtesy call on him at the Western Regional Coordinating Council (WRCC) on Monday, 3rd March 2025, Joseph Nelson emphasised that the government would deliver on the manifesto promises made by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to these communities, including the Zongo areas in the region.

He highlighted that upon assuming office, President John Dramani Mahama had ensured the swift implementation of critical campaign promises, such as reducing Hajj fares for the Muslim community this year and declaring an additional holiday during Eid festivities.

Furthermore, Nelson stated that the NDC administration, under President Mahama, would work to improve the standard of Islamic education, ensuring the delivery of quality Arabic teaching and learning across the country.

He also reiterated his commitment to working closely with deprived communities in the region to enhance their welfare and overall well-being.

Joseph Nelson commended the Muslim communities in the Western Region for dedicating the month of Ramadan to fasting and praying for the country and the current administration.

He called for peace and stability in the region, praising the Zongo chiefs for their efforts in promoting non-violence before, during, and after the 2024 general elections.

He described peace and stability as fundamental to development and key to attracting investments into the region.

Nelson appealed to traditional rulers to prioritise peace as the cornerstone for growth in the region.

Alhaji Kamaldeen, the representative of the Zongo chiefs, read a speech on behalf of the chiefs, expressing their gratitude to the Minister for his visit to Sekondi and their appreciation for his efforts.

He highlighted poor road infrastructure, poverty, and the lack of employment opportunities as the primary challenges facing deprived communities, including Zongo areas.

On behalf of the chiefs, Alhaji Kamaldeen appealed to the Minister to use his office to address these challenges.

In response, the Minister acknowledged awareness of these issues and assured that he would work closely with relevant stakeholders to tackle them.

He stated that those falling within his remit would be addressed, while those requiring central government intervention would be pushed for President Mahama to address them as needed.