NPP showcases development record in Zongo Communities

The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has highlighted its development achievements in Zongo communities, pointing to the contributions made under President John Kufuor and President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administrations. 

The NPP made this case at the launch of the Gaskiya Forum, a platform designed by the Bawumia for President 2024 National Zongo Campaign to engage stakeholders in these communities.

Speaking at the event, Alhaji Ben Abdallah Banda, Chairman of the National Zongo Campaign, emphasized the NPP’s commitment to Zongo development. “Our Flagbearer and our party believe that elections should be about issues, data, and records, not propaganda and insults. The Gaskiya Forum presents facts and data to showcase our unmatched achievements in the Zongos,” he said.

He said a key highlight of the NPP’s development efforts was the establishment of the Zongo Development Fund (ZDF), described as the biggest initiative in the history of Zongo development. According to Banda, the ZDF, created during President Akufo-Addo's administration, has delivered over 400 projects across Zongo communities, with significant contributions to education, health, sanitation, and job creation.

Educational focus

The NPP’s emphasis on education in Zongo communities has been significant, with Alhaji Banda detailing the construction of 70 new classroom blocks, scholarships for brilliant but needy students, and access to Free SHS (Senior High School). Additionally, 40 Zongo students are currently being trained as medical doctors in Cuba through a government-funded scholarship program.

“The NPP believes education is the greatest leveller. That is why we have focused heavily on educational infrastructure and opportunities for Zongo youth,” Alhaji Banda said.

Infrastructure and social support

Beyond education, the Zongo Development Fund has also been used to construct access roads, bridges, health facilities, and astro turfs in 17 Zongo communities. Market women and young entrepreneurs in Zongos have also benefited from grants and vocational training.

Alhaji Banda criticized the opposition NDC for its lack of comparable contributions, challenging them to show their record of development in Zongo communities. “Under the NDC, schools in Zongo areas were neglected, and many students dropped out due to lack of financial support,” he added.

The Gaskiya Forum distributed brochures showcasing the NPP’s projects in Zongo communities, inviting the public to verify the claims. The party reiterated its commitment to furthering the development of Zongos under the potential leadership of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.