The Central Regional Minister, Mrs Ama Benyiwa Doe, has encouraged women to stand as candidates in the forthcoming district level election. She said district assemblies represented the government at the local level and that it was imperative to elect committed and dedicated people to effectively manage affairs, stressing that women were better managers, particularly, on financial issues. Mrs Doe made the call at this year's "Elmina Bakatue Festival," to mark the end of the ban on fishing and noise making in the Edina Traditional Area, on Tuesday. The ceremony, which was well attended with people from the Diaspora, reached a climax when the Omanhen's net was cast in the Benya Lagoon three times to signify the lifting of the ban on fishing. A quantity of fish was caught in each cast which was an indication that there would be a bumper catch this year. Mrs Doe underscored the importance of Census to the development of a country and urged the people of Elmina to give the programme the necessary support when it starts to ensure its success. The Regional Minister advised them to endeavour to live hygienic lives to avoid being infected with the HINI virus, encouraging them to always wash their hands with soap and keep their surroundings clean. She said the festival should not be used only for feasting and merrymaking but should be a platform for initiating pragmatic plans to enhance the development of the area and also foster peace and unity. "It is the best time to grow businesses and attract investors and tourists to your area," she observed. She advised parents to use the occasion to teach their wards about their cultural practices and endeavour to send their children to school since the government had provided the necessary logistics such as uniforms and exercise books, Capitation Grant and the School Feeding Programme to enhance teaching and learning. The Regional Minister urged them to also endeavour to settle all their land and chieftaincy disputes, stressing that no community could develop without peace and unity. A total of 12 canoes participated in the regatta with Bantama emerging winner, followed by Island and Justice. Source: GNA