By Michael Foli Jackidy
Dzodze (V/R), March 6, GNA-Reverend Martin Amenaki, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Ketu North, has called on residents to work collectively towards building prosperity and restoring hope in their communities as Ghana commemorates its 69th Independence Anniversary.
Speaking at a parade held at the Dzodze Mite School Park, Rev Amenaki said the celebration was a reminder of the sacrifices made by Ghana’s forebears who fought for the country’s freedom and independence.
“This day gives us the opportunity to reflect on the struggles and sacrifices of our forebears who broke the chains of colonialism to give us an independent Ghana,” he said.
He noted that the 69th anniversary, celebrated on the theme “Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope,” called on Ghanaians to renew their commitment to national development and unity.
According to him, the theme emphasises the need to rebuild the economy, create opportunities for citizens, and restore confidence in national leadership and institutions.
Rev Amenaki explained that the theme aligned with the national agenda of promoting economic recovery, job creation, and social development, while strengthening public confidence in governance.
He said initiatives such as improving infrastructure, strengthening agriculture and expanding access to healthcare and education remained key drivers of prosperity and hope for communities.
Rev Amenaki said the Ketu North Municipality had made significant strides in improving social infrastructure and services to enhance the wellbeing of residents.
He disclosed that the Assembly had completed and handed over two Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds with nurses’ quarters to improve access to healthcare in some communities.
He added that construction of additional facilities had also commenced to strengthen health service delivery in the municipality.
The MCE said the construction of classroom blocks that stalled for years were also completed, enabling more than 500 pupils to return to improved learning environments.
He noted that the Assembly had also intensified support for farmers through the distribution of seedlings, training programmes and market linkages aimed at increasing productivity and incomes.
Rev Amenaki said agriculture remained the backbone of the local economy, and efforts were being made to support agro-processing and cooperative farming to promote value addition and job creation.
He said the Assembly was working towards the development of a modern market facility to support the 24-hour market initiative, which was expected to create employment opportunities for the youth and boost commercial activities in the municipality.
The MCE urged the youth to take advantage of educational and skills training opportunities to prepare themselves for leadership and productive roles in society.
Rev Amenaki also appealed to traditional leaders, community members and other stakeholders to collaborate with the Assembly to maintain peace and resolve issues that could hinder development.
Mr Eric Edem Agbana, Member of Parliament (MP) for Ketu North, reminded students and residents of the sacrifices made by Ghana’s founding generation to secure the country’s independence.
He said the freedom enjoyed by present generations was the result of the dedication and sacrifices of earlier patriots who struggled for national liberation.
“Many people sacrificed their lives for the freedom and independence we enjoy today. It is now our responsibility to work hard to develop our communities and nation,” he said.
Mr Agbana urged students to remain disciplined and take their studies seriously, noting that education remained the most effective path to leadership and national development.
He assured residents that efforts were being made to improve educational infrastructure and expand opportunities for students in the constituency.
The MP said several interventions were ongoing in schools across the constituency to improve teaching and learning conditions.
He emphasised that the success of such investments depended largely on the commitment of students to work hard and remain focused on their academic goals.
“Your Member of Parliament will continue to invest in education, but these investments will only yield results if you, the beneficiaries, take your studies seriously and remain disciplined,” he said.
He encouraged the youth to recognise their role in national development and contribute positively to the growth of their communities and the country.
A total of 18 public and private schools comprising primary, junior high, senior high schools and a cadet corps from the Dzodze Zone participated in the parade to mark the 69th Independence Day celebration.
Students displayed marching drills as part of activities to commemorate the historic occasion.
GNA
Edited By: Maxwell Awumah/George-Ramsey Benamba