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Gov't Alone Cannot Deliver the Transformation We Seek – Local Gov't Minister Stresses Collaboration at Bredi Nkyifie Yam Festival

The Bredi Nkyifie Yam Festival, a sacred celebration of harvest, gratitude, and cultural identity, this year marked a dual milestone: its annual observance and the 15th anniversary of the enstoolment of the Paramount Chief of the Bassa Traditional Area, Nana Owusu Sakyi III.

Date Created : 1/7/2026 : Story Author : Oheneba Kesse Brempong-Asare/Ghanandistricts.com

Nana Owusu Sakyi III, who also serves as President of the Bono East Regional House of Chiefs, used the occasion to highlight critical development needs for his people. In a speech before government officials and gathered communities, he made a series of appeals aimed at improving livelihoods.

Key among his requests was the establishment of a modern market for the Bassa Traditional Area. "A well-structured market will enhance local commerce, create employment, support our farmers and traders, and ultimately strengthen the local economy," he stated.

The Paramount Chief also appealed for the upgrade of the existing Bassa Health Clinic to a polyclinic. He explained that quality healthcare remains a major concern, and such a facility would "reduce preventable illnesses, maternal and child mortality, and the need for long-distance travel for medical care."

Finally, addressing educational gaps, Nana Owusu Sakyi III called for government investment in human capital. He specifically requested the establishment of a tertiary institution, such as a College of Nursing or a College of Education, within the traditional area. "This will not only expand access to higher education but also contribute to national development by training skilled professionals to serve Ghana," he explained.

The festival was attended by a central government delegation including Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, National Chairman of the NDC; Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs; Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, Bono East Regional Minister; and local MMDCEs.

In his remarks, the NDC National Chairman, Hon. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, affirmed the role of chiefs as "custodians of our culture, guarantors of peace, and indispensable partners in grassroots development." He stated that a government led by H.E. John Dramani Mahama would deepen collaboration between traditional institutions and local assemblies to accelerate development.

Responding to the appeals, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, assured that the ministry would bring the community's aspirations to the attention of the relevant state agencies for support. He commended ongoing local initiatives, such as the proposed construction of a health centre for Kwame Duro and Bassa Senior High School.

The Minister, however, underscored a fundamental principle: "Government alone cannot deliver the transformation we seek." He called on traditional leaders, political authorities, religious bodies, women, youth, and all citizens to continue working together "in peace, mutual respect, and with shared responsibility."

In a separate address, the Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, expressed gratitude for the delegation's visit but highlighted a regional challenge. He lamented the 42 serious chieftaincy disputes currently pending in both law courts and traditional councils within the region and pleaded with the Chieftaincy Ministry for assistance in resolving them.

The festival culminated in celebrations honouring Nana Owusu Sakyi III's 15 years of leadership, legacy, and his continued advocacy for the development and unity of the Bassa Traditional Area.

SOCIAL

Gov't Alone Cannot Deliver the Transformation We Seek – Local Gov't Minister Stresses Collaboration at Bredi Nkyifie Yam Festival

Date Created : 1/7/2026 : Story Author : Oheneba Kesse Brempong-Asare/Ghanandistricts.com

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