The West Gonja Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Karimu Musah Kusubari, has expressed concern over the rising number of road crashes in the municipality and called on stakeholders to take immediate action to address the situation.
During his sessional address at the 1st Ordinary Meeting of the 4th Session of the 8th Assembly of the West Gonja Municipal Assembly, Mr Kusubari highlighted the alarming trend of road accidents, particularly motorcycle crashes and pedestrian knock-downs, resulting in deaths and severe injuries.
He cited specific incidents in May 2023, where three individuals lost their lives, including a pregnant woman.
Mr Kusubari emphasized the importance of supporting the National Road Safety Authority officials in their efforts to enforce discipline and traffic regulations on the roads, particularly among motorbike riders.
He also called on the Motor Traffic and Transport Department of the Ghana Police Service to take decisive action against individuals and groups obstructing road traffic regulations.
Addressing the ongoing Damongo Chieftaincy resolution processes, Mr Kusubari assured that the Yagbonwura was actively working towards a roadmap for a peaceful and lasting resolution of the conflict.
He expressed concern about recent conflicts between Gonjas and Mamprusis in Mempeasem and Lukula, urging all parties to exercise restraint and collaborate with the Security Agencies to restore peace and security.
Regarding the West Gonja Municipal Assembly's internally generated funds (IGF), Mr Kusubari shared positive progress, with a projection to mobilize GH¢712,745.00 in IGF for the fiscal year 2023.
As of April 30, 2023, the amount generated reached GH¢153,197.54, representing 21.4% of the target. He commended the support and cooperation of the Zonal Council Chairperson in revenue collection, indicating that the Assembly was on track to achieve close to 90% of its targeted performance for the year.
On water and sanitation, Mr Kusubari highlighted the partnership between Global Communities, an NGO, and the Assembly to implement a project promoting water, sanitation, and hygiene in schools and communities.
The initiative aims to improve access to household toilets, prevent open defecation, and promote open defecation-free (ODF) protocols.
Currently, 15 communities have been selected, and baseline information is being collected to kickstart the ODF campaign.
Mr Kusubari emphasized the hazards of open defecation to health, education, and productivity, calling for collective efforts from Assembly persons, Unit Committees, Heads of Department, traditional authorities, and the media to support the ODF campaign and make Damongo and all communities in the municipality free from open defecation.
He commended the Environmental Health Unit staff and World Vision for their contributions to achieving an ODF area.
