Gyankobaa: The chiefs and people of Gyankobaa in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality have appealed to the government to compensate farmers whose lands were acquired for development projects in the community.
According to Ghana News Agency, Obofuor Atwima-Kwaah Boakye Darkwa II, Gyankobaahene and Otumfuo Kwansentuohene, made the appeal on behalf of the people. The lands were acquired by the previous government for the One District One Factory (1D1F) and Waste-To-Power projects in the town. The Chief noted that while the previous government initiated compensation payments, they were incomplete, significantly impacting the farmers.
Obofour Kwaa Boakye Darkwa II addressed the issue during a courtesy call by Mr. Wisdom Osei Boamah, the Municipal Chief Executive, who was on a 'Thank you' and community engagement tour. The Chief highlighted that only GHC 100,000.00 of the promised GHC 400,000.00 compensation had been paid, which was insufficient for the farmers to reinvest and sustain their livelihoods. He urged the MCE and government to consider the farmers' plight and provide the remaining compensation.
Additionally, the Chief appealed for the passage of the LGBTQ+ Bill, as promised during the campaign, to uphold marriage principles in the country. He expressed confidence in the government's ability to deliver, referencing past NDC government initiatives that provided potable water and classroom blocks to the town.
In response, Mr. Boamah committed to resolving the compensation issue for the community's welfare. He elaborated on policy arrangements concerning the economy, agriculture, education, and other sectors to benefit the area. He encouraged farmers to register for the ongoing Feed Ghana Poultry Programme, known as the 'Nkokonketenkete' project, to gain from its future profits.
During an open forum, community members requested improvements in electricity, water, sanitation, classrooms, communication networks, and other amenities. Mr. Appiah-Kubi, the Assemblyman, urged the completion and operationalization of the 1D1F factory project, intended for ginger processing, as Gyankobaa is the largest ginger producer in the Ashanti region.
