By Michael Foli Jackidy
Penyi (V/R), Jan 17, GNA – Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has held a town hall meeting with residents of Penyi in the Ketu North Municipality to engage the community on the ongoing Big Push Road Project and address concerns surrounding its implementation.
The meeting, which brought together the Municipal Chief Executive for Ketu North, Rev Martin Amenaki, traditional authorities, assembly members, opinion leaders and community members, created a platform for open dialogue between government officials and the people of Penyi on the scope, design and expected impact of the road project.
Residents used the opportunity to raise issues relating to the construction of a single carriageway instead of the anticipated dual carriageway, as well as concerns about drainage, road safety, and the potential impact of the works on nearby homes and businesses.
Mr Gunu welcomed the constructive feedback from the community, noting that meaningful development could only be achieved through continuous engagement with the people it was intended to serve.
“I listened carefully to the views and expectations of the people of Penyi, and I am encouraged by the responsible and respectful manner in which these concerns were expressed,” he said.
The Regional Minister took the opportunity to outline the government’s broader development agenda, stressing that infrastructure projects under the Big Push initiative were aimed at improving connectivity, boosting local economic activity, and enhancing access to essential services across the Volta Region.
He assured the community that their concerns, particularly regarding the road design and safety features, had been noted and would be communicated to the relevant technical agencies and contractors for consideration.
Mr Gunu emphasised the government’s commitment to inclusive, people-centered development, adding that community participation remained a key pillar in ensuring transparency, accountability and value for money in public infrastructure projects.
Rev Martin Amenaki, the Municipal Chief Executive, also encouraged residents to cooperate with contractors and government officials throughout the construction period, noting that their support and vigilance would help ensure quality work and timely completion.
Traditional leaders and community representatives expressed appreciation for the engagement and welcomed the assurance that their concerns would be addressed, describing the town hall meeting as a positive step toward strengthening trust between the government and the people of Penyi.
The Big Push Road Project is expected to improve road safety, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and enhance socio-economic activities within the municipality and adjoining communities when completed.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Benjamin Mensah