The remote community of Gomoa Dahom, nestled within the Gomoa Central District of Ghana’s Central Region, faces a significant challenge in its quest for development and connection with the wider world: the lack of reliable communication network services. This digital divide isolates residents, hampers economic activities, and creates a sense of disconnect in an increasingly interconnected global society. Nana Kwa Pra Ababio VII, the Chief of Gomoa Dahom and Apakansoahene of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area, has voiced a fervent appeal to the District Assembly, urging them to address this pressing issue and bridge the communication gap that separates his community from the rest of the nation. He emphasizes the hardship faced by residents who are forced to incur extra costs and travel to neighboring towns simply to make phone calls or conduct essential business transactions, tasks that could be easily accomplished from the comfort of their homes with adequate network coverage.
The Chief’s plea for improved communication infrastructure resonates as a critical step towards integrating Gomoa Dahom into the mainstream economy and facilitating access to vital information and services. The absence of reliable network connectivity acts as a barrier to progress, hindering residents’ ability to participate fully in educational, economic, and social opportunities available in more connected areas. In an era where information is power and communication is essential for development, the lack of network access in Gomoa Dahom represents a significant impediment to the community’s growth and prosperity. This digital divide not only isolates Gomoa Dahom from the outside world but also restricts access to essential services, limits economic opportunities, and hinders the community’s overall development.
Beyond the pressing need for enhanced communication services, Chief Nana Kwa Pra Ababio VII also highlighted the deplorable condition of the road connecting Gomoa Dahom to Gomoa Achiase. This dilapidated road poses a significant health hazard due to excessive dust pollution and hinders the smooth transportation of goods and services, thereby impacting the local economy. He stressed the urgency of addressing this infrastructure deficit, urging the District Assembly to prioritize the construction of a bitumen-surfaced road to enhance accessibility and promote economic activity. The Chief acknowledges the efforts made by Hon. Kwame Asare Obeng, the Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, in securing an additional road link to Gomoa Gyaman, which has positively impacted transportation and boosted the local economy.
While acknowledging the challenges, Chief Nana Kwa Pra Ababio VII also expressed appreciation for the performance of the newly appointed District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Hackman Kobina Aidoo, commending his efforts in addressing local concerns. He highlighted the DCE’s proactive approach in tackling community issues, including clearing a hazardous dumping site that posed a health risk to residents. However, he echoed the sentiment of “Oliver Twist,” emphasizing that the community’s needs are ongoing and require continuous attention from the authorities. He specifically appealed for support in completing a community-initiated project to create a durbar grounds, a space vital for community gatherings and events.
Recognizing the multifaceted challenges confronting the community, Chief Nana Kwa Pra Ababio VII also addressed the issue of drug abuse among the youth, urging them to abstain from harmful substances that could jeopardize their future. He emphasized the importance of education and personal development, encouraging young people to focus on constructive pursuits that would contribute to their overall well-being and the progress of the community. This call for responsible behavior underscores the Chief’s commitment to the holistic development of Gomoa Dahom, recognizing that the future of the community rests on the well-being and productivity of its youth.
The Queenmother of Gomoa Dahom, Nana Adjoa Esirifua Oye III, echoed the Chief’s concerns, particularly emphasizing the need to address the issue of teenage pregnancy and school dropouts among young girls. She urged parents to exercise vigilance and closely monitor their daughters, especially during nighttime hours, to mitigate the risks of teenage pregnancy and its associated consequences. She highlighted the link between teenage pregnancy and economic hardship, stressing the importance of education as a pathway to empowerment and a brighter future for young girls. Her vision for Gomoa Dahom centers on reducing teenage pregnancies and promoting education, recognizing that these factors play a crucial role in the overall development and security of the community. She also reiterated the need for improved infrastructure, including more boreholes to provide access to potable drinking water, and the construction of the Gomoa Achiase road. These concerns, voiced by both the Chief and Queenmother, underscore the community’s collective aspiration for progress and their commitment to creating a better future for Gomoa Dahom. They also highlight the importance of collaboration between community leaders, government authorities, and residents in addressing the challenges and realizing the full potential of Gomoa Dahom.
