The Swedruman Council of Chiefs, convened in Agona Swedru, has declared its intent to address the proliferation of unauthorized structures within the municipality. The Council expressed concern over the unchecked construction, which it deems detrimental to the aesthetics of the area and potentially harmful to the environment. The proliferation of these structures, they argue, has created an eyesore for both residents and visitors, reflecting poorly on the community’s image. The Council’s commitment to rectifying this issue underscores their dedication to maintaining the integrity and appeal of Agona Swedru. Furthermore, they suspect complicity within the Assembly itself, with some staff potentially aiding and abetting this unauthorized construction. The Council vows to expose those involved, demonstrating a firm resolve to hold accountable those who undermine proper planning and development processes.
To effectively combat this issue, the Swedruman Council has taken proactive steps. A dedicated committee has been formed, tasked with collaborating with the Assembly to demolish structures erected along waterways and those lacking proper documentation. This decisive action demonstrates the Council’s commitment to not only addressing existing violations but also preventing future ones. The targeted demolition of structures along waterways is particularly important, as these encroachments can disrupt natural water flow, leading to flooding and environmental damage. Furthermore, the focus on undocumented structures aims to curb illegal construction and enforce adherence to established building codes and regulations. By partnering with the Assembly, the Council aims for a unified approach to addressing this complex issue.
The Regent of Agona Swedru, Nana Kweku Essieni V, highlighted a critical concern regarding the financial implications of these unauthorized structures. He questioned whether these structures contributed to the municipality’s revenue through proper permitting processes. This raises concerns about potential revenue loss and the misappropriation of funds. The Regent’s suspicion that funds collected through the Internal Generated Fund (IGF) are being diverted into individual pockets, rather than being used for public development projects, further underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability within the Assembly. The Regent emphasized the Council’s intention to closely scrutinize the Assembly’s activities, citing their weariness of excuses related to funding shortages for IGF-funded development projects.
In addition to addressing unauthorized constructions, the Council also announced plans to relocate market women currently trading at the Swedru main lorry station. The relocation, planned for the following year, aims to move these vendors to either the Mandela Market or the main market. This decision is primarily driven by safety concerns, as the current location poses risks to drivers navigating the lorry station. By relocating the market women, the Council seeks to improve traffic flow and safety within the station, while also potentially providing a more organized and suitable trading environment for the vendors themselves. This initiative demonstrates the Council’s commitment to enhancing the overall functionality and safety of public spaces within the municipality.
The outgoing Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Evans Addison Onomah Coleman, responded positively to the Council’s pronouncements, expressing gratitude for their insights and guidance. He affirmed the Assembly’s willingness to accept and implement the Council’s recommendations, aiming to foster economic growth and development within the Agona West Municipality. This collaborative approach between the Council and the Assembly suggests a shared commitment to improving the municipality and addressing the concerns raised. The Chief Executive’s acknowledgement of the Council’s contribution underscores the importance of collaboration between traditional authorities and local government in achieving shared development goals.
In a separate but noteworthy event, the authorities of the Agona Swedru Government Hospital presented a plaque to Nana Kweku Essieni V and the Swedruman Council of Chiefs. This gesture recognized their significant contributions to the efficient administration of the hospital. This recognition highlights the Council’s broader involvement in community affairs, extending beyond their focus on unauthorized structures and market relocation. Their contribution to the hospital demonstrates their commitment to improving essential services within the municipality and underscores their role as vital stakeholders in the overall well-being of the community. The presentation of the plaque serves as a testament to the Council’s positive impact on the healthcare sector and their dedication to improving the lives of Agona Swedru residents.
