By Michael Foli Jackidy
Adaklu (V/R), April 3, GNA –The newly confirmed District Chief Executive (DCE) for Adaklu, Mr Jerry Yao Ameko, has identified the long-standing conflict between farmers and cattle breeders as one of the most pressing challenges facing the district.
Speaking after securing a 100 per cent endorsement from all 19 Assembly Members, Mr Ameko pledged to work closely with traditional leaders, security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to ensure peaceful coexistence between the two groups.
“We will introduce designated grazing lands and establish conflict resolution mechanisms to safeguard the interests of both farmers and cattle breeders. Our goal is to promote peace and ensure that farming and livestock rearing can coexist without disputes,” he assured.
Mr Ameko emphasised that unity and collaboration are essential for the progress and transformation of Adaklu.
He extended an invitation to traditional rulers, political leaders, civil society organizations, and the entire community to join hands in achieving a shared vision for development.
He highlighted the district’s rich agricultural potential, including, Vast arable lands suitable for commercial farming. Viable rivers that can be harnessed for irrigation. Hardworking men and women with the potential to turn Adaklu into a leading agricultural hub.
However, he acknowledged that Adaklu still faces several challenges, including, High unemployment rates, poor road networks and inadequate infrastructure, Limited access to agribusiness and financial opportunities.
To tackle these challenges, Mr Ameko vowed to implement policies that align with the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s vision, particularly the 24-hour economy policy, which focuses on economic transformation through agribusiness.
“I strongly believe that the future of Adaklu lies in modernizing agriculture. My administration will work diligently to attract investment into large-scale farming, promote mechanization, and provide irrigation systems for year-round farming,” he added.
Mr Ameko announced plans to establish agro-processing industries to add value to farm produce and create jobs, encourage public-private partnerships to support farmers and agri-preneurs, provide financial and technical assistance to boost agribusiness activities.
The 24-hour economy policy, he said, presents a unique opportunity to revolutionize Adaklu’s economy.
“We will collaborate with stakeholders to establish night markets, agro-processing centers, and transport services that will operate around the clock. Our youth will be empowered with vocational and entrepreneurial skills to actively participate in this transformation,” he added.
As an educationist, Mr Ameko reaffirmed his commitment to improving the education sector by, enhancing educational infrastructure with modern facilities, implementing scholarship schemes for brilliant but needy students, expanding technical and vocational training to equip the youth with employable skills.
He also stressed the importance of infrastructure development, pledging to improve road networks to enhance connectivity, expand healthcare facilities for better access to medical care, Ensure clean water supply and sanitation improvements, support small and medium enterprises by creating a business-friendly environment.
“We shall create an enabling business climate that fosters growth and innovation. Our doors will always be open for constructive dialogue, ideas, and contributions to propel Adaklu to greater heights,” he assured.
Mr Ameko expressed gratitude to the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, the Assembly Members, and the people of Adaklu for their support.
“As I assume office, I do so with a heart full of hope and a spirit of determination. I pledge to lead with integrity, diligence, and a deep commitment to the well-being of our people. The task ahead is great, but with your support, I am confident that we will build a prosperous Adaklu where opportunities abound for all,” he said.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr James Gunu, commended the Assembly Members for their unanimous approval of Mr. Ameko, assuring them of continuous development in the district.
He urged other municipal and district assemblies in the region to follow suit and endorse their MDCEs without delay for the sake of development.
GNA
MA/LAA