The Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, in its drive to expedite regional development, is appealing to landowners in Bolgatanga to consider releasing land for government projects.
According to the Regional Coordinating Director, Alhaji Abubakar Inusah, land procurement for government initiatives persistently presents a hurdle in the region, significantly impeding developmental project advancement.
“In our pursuit of regional development, we are often confronted with a common challenge – the unavailability of suitable land for essential projects such as schools, hospitals, and infrastructure development,” said Alhaji Abubakar Inusah.
Speaking on A1 Radio’s Daybreak Upper East show on August 22, 2023, Alhaji Abubakar underlined that landowners’ hesitation to relinquish land for government undertakings has negatively affected regional growth.
“Sometimes some agencies will come that they are looking for space to put the offices which of course, if these agencies establish their structures not only will such structures develop the agencies alone but the entire region and its people. But landowners will say there’s no land for them. Even if some will agree to negotiate the release of the lands, they [landowners] will not be looking at their long-term benefits with the agencies, rather the short term money that they will collect. It is sad and we need to rise beyond such behaviour.”
Alhaji Abubakar acknowledged landowners’ apprehensions about potential displacement or equitable compensation. However, he urged them to view land release as a civic duty ultimately benefiting the whole community.
He added, “We need to foster a culture of collaboration and unity in our region. By releasing land for these projects, landowners are contributing to the well-being of their communities and ensuring a brighter future for our children.”
Thus, the appeal symbolises a call for unity, understanding, and cooperation among stakeholders. Alhaji Abubakar highlighted that landowners and government entities should collaboratively address challenges to facilitate accelerated development, enhance living conditions, and usher in a promising future for residents.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1 MHz|Moses Apiah|Ghana
