Takoradi: Some key stakeholders have converged at a day's forum to dialogue and discuss strategies to propel the development of the Western Region. The forum brought together traditional leaders, politicians, policymakers, development experts, entrepreneurs, academia, and the public to deliberate on challenges within the region and produce strategic interventions to bring change and progress to the people.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was organized by the Western Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), with funding support from the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). Held in Takoradi, the event was themed 'Redefining the Development Agenda: Collaborative Strategies for the Sustainable Growth of the Western Region.'
Awulae Angama Tu-Agyan II, Paramount Chief of Gwira Traditional Area, spoke at the opening of the forum, highlighting that the Western Region, despite its vast mineral resources and contribution to the nation's GDP, lacked development. He urged the region's natives to collaborate for the region's growth rather than pursue personal interests.
Addressing unemployment, the Paramount Chief encouraged individuals to partner and pool resources to establish businesses that provide decent jobs for the youth. This, he noted, would improve living standards and promote community development.
Mr. Joseph Cudjoe, a Former Minister for Public Enterprises, advised against over-reliance on politicians for development solutions. He emphasized the need for pragmatic measures to harness the region's resource potentials, stating that the community should champion its development agenda.
Nana Yaa Amoako-Adu, CEO of Integrity Logistics and Consult, remarked that entrepreneurs drive growth. She encouraged the youth to view societal problems as opportunities to innovate, start businesses, and create jobs.
Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, in a speech read on his behalf, commended the GJA for organizing the forum. He noted that despite the region's mineral wealth, it lacked necessary development, and the forum aligned with his vision of driving positive development for the region's betterment.
Mr. Desmond Cudjoe, the Western Regional GJA Chairman, expressed the association's commitment to the region's development. He was confident that the ideas discussed would be actionable in realizing the desired progress and development.