The Paramount Chief of Yilo Krobo, Okpleme Nuer Annorbaa Sasraku II, has issued a clarion call for immediate action on the persistent issue of regional and district boundary disputes in Ghana. Speaking at the Licensed Surveyors Association of Ghana (LISAG) Annual General Meeting and Seminar, he stressed the urgency of addressing these protracted conflicts which continue to disrupt communities and impede development. He specifically called upon LISAG and relevant government bodies to implement the recommendations laid out in the 2021 technical report on district boundary issues, a document that builds upon the foundation of the 2012 District Peace Report, providing a comprehensive framework for resolving these long-standing territorial disagreements. The Paramount Chief underscored that the time for deliberation has passed and the time for decisive action has arrived, emphasizing the debilitating impact these disputes have on progress and peaceful coexistence.
Chief Sasraku II further encouraged LISAG members to embrace innovative approaches, collaborative partnerships, and sustainable practices in their professional endeavors. He highlighted the vital role of effective land use planning and efficient dispute resolution mechanisms in building prosperous, resilient, and harmonious communities. He expressed confidence in the Ministry of Local Government and Religious Affairs’ support for this crucial initiative, emphasizing the potential for transformative change and a brighter future through collaborative efforts. He painted a vision of communities evolving step-by-step towards greater stability and prosperity, freed from the constraints of boundary disputes.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, echoed the Paramount Chief’s sentiments, reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling these complex challenges. Minister Ibrahim emphasized the crucial need for precise mapping and proactive strategies to mitigate disaster risks, particularly in flood-prone areas and other high-risk zones. He called for the utilization of elevation profiles and the implementation of comprehensive disaster management approaches. Recognizing the critical role of licensed surveyors in various aspects of national development, including land use planning, urban development, and environmental assessment, the Minister urged LISAG to explore economic opportunities and technological advancements that could enhance their work and contribute to the overall progress of the nation.
The LISAG AGM and Seminar provided a valuable platform for key stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and explore practical solutions to boundary-related issues. The discussions centered on how improved governance, effective planning, and sustainable development initiatives can benefit communities grappling with these challenges. The event fostered an environment for sharing best practices, identifying potential roadblocks, and strategizing for impactful interventions that address the root causes of boundary disputes. This collaborative approach underscored the importance of a multi-pronged strategy involving government agencies, professional organizations, and local communities.
Surveyor Ing. Samuel Larbi Darko, President of LISAG, underscored the pivotal role of licensed surveyors in shaping the built environment and driving sustainable development in Ghana. He emphasized the profound impact of their expertise on communities, economies, and environmental sustainability, stating that their work is fundamental to national development. Ing. Darko highlighted the influence of surveyors in mapping, land use planning, and infrastructure development, demonstrating their contribution to various sectors of the economy. He stressed the importance of unity within the profession, urging members to uphold shared values and collectively advance the field of surveying.
Ing. Darko expressed his pride in leading LISAG and acknowledged the significant progress made in strengthening the association’s operations, attributing the achievements to the dedication and commitment of its members. He encouraged continued mutual support and collaboration within the association, emphasizing the shared mission of driving sustainable growth. The AGM and Seminar served to reinforce LISAG’s commitment to promoting professional excellence and leveraging cutting-edge mapping technologies to stimulate economic growth. The discussions highlighted the critical importance of collaboration, innovation, and unity in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the surveying profession in Ghana, ultimately contributing to a more stable and prosperous future for the nation.
