The Bono Regional Minister, Madam Justina Owusu Banahene, has praised the security agencies within the region for maintaining a peaceful atmosphere that allows citizens and commuters to go about their work without fear of attack.
She noted that the area enjoys peace due to the tireless efforts of these dedicated security personnel.
During the first Bono Regional Coordinating Council meeting of 2024, held at the Residency Conference Hall, Madam Owusu Banahene emphasized that the overall security situation in the region has remained calm and peaceful. While acknowledging sporadic incidents of theft, assaults, and other minor offences, she noted that the security agencies have effectively managed these. She commended the various security forces and the Municipal and District Security Councils (MUSECs/DISECs) for their resilience and hard work, urging them to continue ensuring lasting peace in the Bono region.
Madam Owusu Banahene also provided updates on numerous development projects across the region. She expressed satisfaction that several initiatives are being implemented in various municipalities and districts. These projects, funded through multiple sources including DPAT, DACF, GETFUND, GoG, and the Secondary City Support Project, encompass the construction of schools, markets, lorry parks, mechanized boreholes, and district hospitals under the Agenda 111 flagship program. While some projects have already been completed and inaugurated, others are progressing steadily.
Addressing the state of the region’s roads, she acknowledged the need for improvements. She assured residents that actionable steps have been taken to address the situation, emphasizing that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has not forgotten the Bono region. Many roads, including the Berekum-Sampa Road, which has been awarded a contract with the sod-cutting ceremony already completed, will undergo improvements. She encouraged everyone to remain patient and look forward to positive developments shortly.
In her address, Madam Owusu Banahene expressed deep concern over the escalating chieftaincy disputes plaguing the region, particularly in Sampa. She highlighted the urgent need for intervention, stating that these disputes have become a significant barrier to the area’s socio-economic development. The Sampa chieftaincy conflict, which has reached alarming levels since June 2023, has resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries due to violent clashes between rival factions.
“The situation has given both the District Security Committee (DISEC) and the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) sleepless nights, impacting even our festive seasons,” she lamented. Currently, Sampa is facing a unique challenge with the presence of two rival chiefs, further complicating the quest for peace.
In response to the unrest, a curfew has been imposed on the Sampa community, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The minister noted the substantial resources diverted to support security personnel tasked with maintaining order, resources that could have been better utilized for development initiatives. “This conflict not only drains the Assembly’s resources but also adversely affects the economic fortunes of our community,” she emphasized, calling for collective action.
Madam Owusu Banahene made a clarion call to the Regional House of Chiefs, urging them to expedite the resolution of all pending chieftaincy disputes before the Judicial Committee. “We must act swiftly to prevent these issues from escalating further,” she stressed, highlighting the importance of restoring peace and stability to Sampa and its surroundings.
As the region grapples with these pressing issues, the hope remains that a collaborative effort among stakeholders will pave the way for a resolution and foster an environment conducive to growth and development for the people of Bono.
