By Kekeli K. Blamey
Sogakope (V/R), July 31, GNA – Ms Victoria Dzeklo, South Tongu DCE, has led stakeholder engagement on the Lower Volta River Dredging Project, urging coordinated efforts to sustainably manage the river ecosystem.
The engagement, organised by the South Tongu District Assembly in collaboration with the Volta River Authority (VRA), brought together representatives from the VRA, traditional authorities, youth groups, fishermen, assembly members and other stakeholders to discuss the implementation framework and expected outcomes of the project.
The meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to deliberate on the importance of the intervention, which seeks to improve river navigation and flow systems, address invasive aquatic weeds, reduce the impact of seasonal flooding and protect the livelihoods of communities along the Lower Volta River.
Speaking at the engagement held at the South Tongu District Assembly Hall in Sogakope, Ms Dzeklo introduced Max Estate Limited, the contractor responsible for executing the dredging and aquatic weed harvesting activities along the district’s stretch of the river.
She described the project as a major environmental and socio-economic intervention that would help restore the ecological integrity of the river while improving the resilience of communities dependent on the water resources.
The DCE stressed the need for community participation in the successful implementation of the project and urged the contractor to prioritise the employment of qualified residents within South Tongu throughout the project period.
She said engaging local residents would create economic opportunities, promote community ownership, and enhance the sustainability of the intervention.
“Beyond the environmental objectives, the project presents an opportunity to empower our people through job creation. We encourage the contractor to ensure that qualified residents are given priority in the employment opportunities that will arise,” she said.
Ms Dzeklo assured stakeholders that the Assembly would continue to provide the needed support and coordination to ensure the smooth implementation of the project while safeguarding the interests of affected communities.
Representatives of the VRA and Max Estate Limited pledged their commitment to executing the project in line with environmental safety requirements and best practices.
They assured stakeholders of continuous consultations with traditional leaders, fishermen, youth groups, assembly members and other community actors to promote transparency, inclusiveness and effective collaboration.
The Lower Volta River Dredging and Aquatic Weed Harvesting Project is expected to improve water resource management, protect the environment, reduce flood risks and enhance economic activities among riparian communities in South Tongu and neighbouring areas.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Audrey Dekalu