FEBRUARY 2024
INAUGURATION OF AWUTU SENYA EAST MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
The Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon K.T. Hammond has admonished Assembly members to be guided by their pivotal roles in decision making and development in general at the local level. Consequently, the Minister has tasked the Assembly Members to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure rapid development in their localities.
Hon K.T. Hammond who is also the Member of Parliament for Adansi Asokwa in the Ashanti Region made these admonitions at the inauguration of the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly on 12th February 2024 stated that with teamwork the Assembly Members would be able to attract the needed development their people are yearning for.
In her welcome address, the MCE, Hon Anita Love Obo Amissah noted that the inauguration marked a significant milestone in the Assembly’s development agenda as that signified the beginning of the decision making process and “effective governance”.
The event brought together the High Court Judge from the Kasoa High Court, Justice Alexander Oworae and his Circuit Court counterpart, His Worship, Oheneba Kufour, Nananom and a cross- session of members of the society.
In all 13 elected Assembly members and seven Government Appointees as well as their Unit Committee members were sworn- in by Justice Alexander.
A two- termed Presiding Member of the Assembly, Hon Jones Darko Kwarteng was re-elected Presiding Member (PM).
The election was supervised by the Electoral Commission.
Story by
ISD Desk
MAY 2024
Awutu Senya East Municipal: A Community Facing Significant Challenges
In a recent meeting at the Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly conference hall on the 28th May, 2024, a stark picture of poverty emerged for the local community. The Multidimensional Poverty Index revealed that 52.5% of the households in the municipality are living in poverty. This statistic, based on data from the 2021 Population and Housing Census, highlights the struggles faced by many residents.
The findings, presented by Regional Statistician Mr. Ernest Kpentey, showed that more than half of the household population were classified as poor, with individuals not employed seven days before the census night. Additionally, 24.3% of the population lacks health insurance, adding another layer of difficulty for many families. About 7.2% of the population lags in education, highlighting another critical area that needs attention.
Despite these challenges, Awutu Senya East Municipal is in a better position compared to other districts in the Central Region. This relative advantage does not diminish the urgency for action but provides a glimmer of hope that with targeted efforts, conditions can improve.
The Multidimensional Poverty Index goes beyond income, considering factors like education, healthcare, and living standards. This comprehensive approach underscores the complex nature of poverty and the need for multifaceted solutions.
The findings call for a collaborative effort from local authorities, development partners, and the community to implement sustainable changes that can uplift the residents of Awutu Senya East Municipal. The Municipal Planning and Coordinating Unit (MPCU) meeting served as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges but also as a call to action. With concerted efforts and strategic planning, there is potential to significantly improve the lives of those in the community.
JUNE 2024
GREEN GHANA DAY: AWUTU SENYA EAST MUNICIPAL LEADS THE WAY TO A GREENER FUTURE
In an effort to address the recent Climate Change and promote environmental Sustainability, Awutu Senya East Municipal joined the nationwide initiative, Green Ghana Day on the 7th of June 2024 which aimed at planting about 10million trees across the country.
Under the theme “Growing for a Greener Tomorrow” the entire municipality gathered at the Assembly’s forecourt and various Zonal councils to contribute to this important cause. The assembly received about Five thousand and five hundred (5500) saplings which will be planted throughout the municipality. The saplings which include Casia, Royal Palm, Mahogany, and Teak plant, not only represent diversity but also resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
The occasion was graced by dignitaries from various sectors, emphasizing the shared responsibility in addressing environmental issues. Nai Kwa-Fio Banafo representing the Ofaakor chief, Hon. Jones Darko Kwarteng, the Presiding Member also representing the Municipal Chief Executive, clergy, and other religious leaders, and staff from forestry commission stood shoulder to shoulder with the Assembly’s staff, demonstrating the spirit of collaboration and unity.
Although Green Ghana Day lasted only one day, its impact will be felt for years to come. It serves as a reminder that the power to effect change lies in our collective hands. Awutu Senya East Municipal has taken a bold stride towards a greener, more sustainable future, and with continued dedication and determination, the possibilities are endless.
JULY 2024
EMPOWERMENT FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: AWUTU SENYA EAST MUNICIPALITY DISBURSES CAPITAL TO PWDs
In a significant move to empower Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Awutu Senya East Municipality, income-generating capital was disbursed to 70 individuals in a well-attended ceremony held on the 19th of July The event, which took place at the forecourt of the municipal assembly, brought together key stakeholders, government officials, and members of the disabled community, marking a milestone in the district’s ongoing efforts to support PWDs.
Hon. Anita Love Obo Amissah, the Municipal Chief Executive who doubled as the event’s chairperson, underscored her commitment to the cause. In her address, she assured the beneficiaries of continued support and reiterated that the Department of Social Welfare, in partnership with the local assembly, is dedicated to ensuring that the disabled community receives the assistance they need.
Mr. Wisdom Y. Badjesaah, the Director of Social Welfare stressed the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting PWDs, despite the challenges of delayed disbursement of the common fund. He called for collaborative efforts between the government and local assemblies to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries within the district receive their due. Mr. Wisdom also emphasized the importance of beneficiaries using the funds wisely, urging them to invest in profitable ventures that would enhance their livelihoods.
Hon. George Yaw Kyei, expressed his gratitude to the organizing team for their dedication to such a critical cause. He addressed circulating rumors about the potential misappropriation of funds, firmly assuring the public that the donations had been handled with transparency and integrity. He acknowledged the delays in fund disbursement but emphasized that these setbacks would not hinder the overall objective of empowering PWDs within the municipality.
The highlight of the event was the announcement of the 70 beneficiaries, with 65 of them having been selected by the disabled community themselves, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process. Each beneficiary received 1,500 Ghana cedis, a sum aimed at helping them start or expand income-generating activities. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for the recipients and foster greater economic independence.
AUGUST 2024
LAUNCHING AQUACULTURE FOR FOOD AND JOBS PROGRAMME BY HON. MRS. MAVIS HAWA KOOMSON
The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Hon. Mrs. Mavis Hawa Koomson, has officially launched the Central Regional Chapter of the Aquaculture for Food and Jobs programme. The launch, which took place in the Awutu Senya East Municipality on 31st August, 2024.
During the event, 67 trainees from Awutu Senya East Municipality received key resources, including two tarpaulins, 5,000 catfish fingerlings, feed for a six-month period, and technical assistance from staff at R&B Farms. Additionally, R&B Farms has committed to purchasing the harvested fish after six months, ensuring a ready market for the trainers.
In her speech, Hon. Mrs. Koomson expressed her enthusiasm for the programme, highlighting its potential to provide sustainable employment opportunities for the youth in the region. She urged the trainers to take the initiative seriously, emphasizing that it was a critical step toward establishing successful fish farming businesses. Furthermore, she announced plans to extend the programme to Odupong Senior High School, which will involve training both students and teachers.
The launch event was attended by several dignitaries, including Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) from the Central Region, the National Coordinator for Aquaculture for Food and Jobs, officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development.
The Aquaculture for Food and Jobs programme is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance food security, reduce unemployment, and promote sustainable aquaculture practices in Ghana.
SEPTEMBER 2024
MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND DECENTRALIZATION VISITS AWUTU SENYA EAST MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
On September 20, 2024, the Minister for Local Government and Decentralization, Hon. Martin Agyei Mensah Korsah visited Awutu Senya East Municipal Assembly, where he inspected several infrastructure development projects including the Ofaakor Jei River Road and ongoing works at both the Old and New Market sites. The project is aimed at improving local infrastructure and boosting economic activities within the municipality.
During his visit, he also addressed the issue of staff absenteeism, which he identified as a growing concern within district assemblies. He warned that stringent measures would be implemented against staff who neglect their duties, emphasizing the need for accountability and dedication in public service.
Additionally, the Minister underscored the importance of the soon-to-be-established Local Government University, highlighting its role in enhancing the skills and knowledge of local government officials across the country. He noted that the university would be instrumental in supporting the government’s decentralization efforts and improving governance at the local level.
The visit concluded with a call for increased dedication from the municipal staff, along with a commitment from the Minister to continue supporting the development of the various assemblies.
