Oti Minister designate pledges to transform region

The Minister designate for the Oti Region, John Kwadwo Gyapong, has pledged to spearhead industrial development, boost agriculture and address key infrastructure challenges in the region if given the nod.

He highlighted the region’s rich agricultural potential and untapped natural resources, expressing a strong commitment to leveraging those assets to improve livelihoods and boost economic growth.

Agro-industrial development

At his confirmation hearing before the Appointments Committee of Parliament yesterday, Mr Gyapong emphasised that the region produced cocoa, ginger, cassava and yam, lamenting the absence of processing industries to add value to those crops.

“If given the nod, I will consult stakeholders to establish processing factories for cocoa, ginger, cassava, and yam. I am very confident this will boost the economy of the region and give employment to the youth,” he said.

He also pointed to the presence of the Oti River and the Volta Lake, calling for large-scale irrigation projects to maximise agricultural output.

“With these two powerful rivers, I don’t see why we cannot irrigate the whole Oti Region,” he noted.

He assured the committee that an irrigation scheme would encourage more youth to venture into farming and stay in the region.

Mr Gyapong also promised to bring on board strategic partners to establish a cocoa processing factory in the region to reduce the dependence on Tema Cocoa Processing Company and promote local industry.

Infrastructure development

He further outlined his vision for infrastructural improvement, including better educational facilities, health care, and road network.

He identified the construction of a bridge over the Oti River, connecting Dambai and Krachi, as a priority project that would enhance connectivity and open up the region for business opportunities.

Additionally, he stressed the need to educate residents on the importance of paying taxes and property rates to improve local assemblies’ revenue for development.

Conflicts in Nkwanta

Responding to questions on the ongoing conflict in Nkwanta, Mr Gyapong said he would collaborate with the Regional Coordinating Council, traditional leaders, and stakeholders to address the issue.

“We will establish an active conflict resolution committee and engage stakeholders frequently to foster peace and unity,” he explained.

He underscored the importance of regular town hall meetings to promote dialogue and community participation in governance.

Legacy

Mr Gyapong expressed his desire to leave behind a legacy of transformative development. “I wish to see the Oti Region well developed, with good infrastructure in education, health and roads,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships to expand transportation and enhance business environments.

Mr Gyapong reaffirmed his commitment to working with the youth and building their capacity to contribute to the region’s progress.