By Kingsley Mamore
Dambai (O/R), Aug. 11, GNA – Mr John Kwadwo Gyapong, Oti Regional Minister, has received the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General William Agyapong, and a high-powered delegation from the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) on a working visit to assess progress on the construction of a new military barracks in the region.
The delegation, which included the Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, inspected the ongoing project and engaged contractors and other key stakeholders on measures to expedite its completion.
The visit formed part of efforts by the GAF to assess the progress of work and identify practical measures to ensure the timely completion of the project to strengthen the region’s security architecture.
Welcoming the delegation, Mr Gyapong commended the leadership and personnel of the GAF for their dedication to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and security in the Oti region, particularly in areas facing security challenges.
He said the Regional Coordinating Council valued the collaboration between the regional administration and the security services in creating a peaceful and secure environment for socio-economic development.
Mr Gyapong expressed optimism that the first phase of the barracks project would be completed within the next 12 months to facilitate the deployment of the first batch of military personnel to the region.
Lieutenant General Agyapong said the Oti region was one of only two regions selected for the construction of new military barracks this year.
He said the facility would serve as a permanent base for personnel of the Army, Navy and Air Force, adding that plans were also underway to construct an airstrip to enhance operational efficiency and facilitate rapid response to security emergencies.
The CDS said the purpose of the visit was to inspect the progress of work, engage contractors and stakeholders, and identify challenges that could affect the project’s timely completion.
He expressed appreciation to the Oti Regional Coordinating Council and the Krachi East Municipal Assembly for their support in securing land for the project, describing their contribution as critical to its commencement.
Lieutenant General Agyapong noted that the completion of the project would significantly enhance the region’s security architecture by improving the ability of the security services to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
He added that the establishment of a permanent military installation would not only strengthen security but also create a safer environment for residents, businesses, and potential investors.
As part of the visit, the delegation paid a courtesy call on Daasebre Atamafowiese Bonjah II, Paramount Chief of the Chonke Traditional Area, where discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between traditional authorities and the security services to promote peace, stability and development.
The delegation later toured the project site to inspect ongoing construction works and interact with members of the project team.
The visit underscores ongoing efforts by the Government and the Ghana Armed Forces to strengthen security infrastructure and enhance the operational capacity of the security services in the Oti region.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Lydia Kukua Asamoah