Residents, opinion leaders, and traditional rulers in the Upper East Region have united in a collective call for the government to expedite the processes for the construction of a long-awaited airport promised to the region.
The impetus for this plea stems from President Akufo-Addo’s earnest commitment, made in the lead-up to the 2016 elections, to build an airport in the Upper East Region if elected.
At a durbar organized at the proposed airport site, the people and chiefs passionately urged the government to fulfill its promise and initiate the construction without further delay.
The paramount chief of the Sekote traditional area, Naba Sigri Bewong, who made the comment, indicated that the president reiterated the said promise in the Bongo district when he cut sod for the commencement of the One-Village-One-Dam project.
However, speaking on the need for the region to have an airport, Gabriel Agambila, Chairman of the Upper East Airport Development Committee, indicated the daily challenges faced by residents and travelers due to the absence of a regional airport.
Mr. Agambila emphasized the arduous and risky nature of the road journeys residents must undertake to reach Tamale, the nearest airport.
“Every time our people need to catch a flight, they have to embark on long and stressful road journeys to Tamale. This not only adds to the inconvenience but also places our citizens at risk of armed robbery attacks, particularly during late-night travel to catch early-morning flights,” he stated.
Highlighting the economic significance of an airport for the region, Agambila pointed out the potential benefits in terms of increased business opportunities, tourism, and improved connectivity.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, added his voice to the advocates for the airport project.
He commended the chiefs, Tindaamas (local leaders), and the people of the region for their concerted effort to push for the construction of an airport.
The Minister acknowledged the pivotal role regional airports play in fostering economic growth, reducing travel time, and bolstering the overall development of communities.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com|101.1MHZ|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga|
