By Philip Tengzu, GNA
Jrapa, (UW/R), May 07, GNA – Mr Cletus Seidu Dapilah, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Jirapa Constituency, has assured the chiefs and people of the Traditional Area of the government’s commitment to ensuring that the area benefits equitably from national development.
He said the administration of President John Dramani Mahama would not neglect the Jirapa constituency in the distribution of resources for socio-economic development.
Mr Dapilah gave the assurance during the climax of the 2026 Bong-Ngo Festival of the chiefs and people of the Jirapa Traditional Area.
The festival, held under the theme: “Reawakening Our Roots: Reviving Bong-Ngo for Cultural Pride, Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development”, was marked by display of cultural heritage, including traditional dances and performances.
The festival is a significant platform for reflecting on the past and charting a path towards sustainable development in the area.
“I can assure you (Jirapa Naa and his people) that the government will ensure that we get our fair share of the national cake,” he stated.
The MP said he would not relent in his efforts to represent the constituency effectively, adding that he would work closely with the traditional authorities to advance development in the area.
Mr Dapilah highlighted the tourism potential of the area, citing attractions such as the Wuling Mushroom Rocks and other unique sites, which could be harnessed to promote local economic development.
Naa Dinaa Donglabong Ganaa III, the Paramount Chief of the Jirapa Traditional Area, indicated that the theme for the celebration was a call for collective responsibility in preserving cultural identity while pursuing development.
He appealed to the government to consider siting key development projects in Jirapa, including the regional hospital, when the current regional hospital is upgraded to a teaching hospital.
The revered chief also appealed to the government to ensure the “Big Push Road Project” passes through the Jirapa Municipality to enhance inter-district connectivity and boost commerce in the area.
Naa Ganaa also outlined several development challenges confronting the area, including a lack of a bus for the Jirapa SHS, a fence wall for the Community Health Training College and relocation of the St. Joseph’s Nursing Training College, among others as needing urgent attention.
Mr Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, described the festival as a unifying event that underscored the importance of culture in driving development.
He noted that sustainable development could only be achieved through unity, cooperation and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
Mr Puozuing reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies and partnerships that would accelerate development in Jirapa and the Upper West region in general.
The festival, which served as a platform to promote cultural pride and social cohesion, brought together traditional leaders, government officials, professionals and residents to foster renewed commitment to the development of the Jirapa Municipality.
GNA
Edited by Caesar Abagali/ Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Philip Tengzu, GNA
[email protected]