News Categories: Community

In this week’s bulletin:

1. Breaking New Grounds: Launch of Women in Poultry Value Chain – Nkawkaw Chapter
The launch of the Nkawkaw Chapter of Women in Poultry Value Chain (WIPVaC) marked a pivotal step towards revitalizing Ghana’s poultry industry. Under the theme “Breaking New Grounds to Revamp the Poultry Industry in Ghana: The Role of Value Chain Actors,” the event brought together the Department of Agriculture, Apex Body of Women in Poultry Value Chain, and the Star Ghana Foundation. The collaboration aims to empower women in the poultry sector, fostering growth and sustainability. WIPVaC’s motto, “Think Chicken,” reflects the ambition to drive positive change in the industry.

2. Empowering Women: Nkawkaw Chapter of WIPVaC on Oyerepa TV
The executives of the Nkawkaw Chapter of Women in Poultry Value Chain took to the airwaves through an interview on Oyerepa TV. They highlighted their mission and sought sponsorships to support the group’s activities. Their dedication to advancing women’s roles in the poultry value chain was evident as they communicated their vision to a wider audience.

3. Livestock Care and More
The Department of Agriculture’s commitment to livestock welfare continued through vaccination, treatment, and other livestock-related activities. These efforts contribute to the well-being of the animals and the overall health of the agricultural ecosystem.

4. Community Engagement: Monitoring Agriculture Activities
Saafi, Yakoko, Obomeng Besease, Ohene Akura, and Kwahu Fodoa Communities were under the watchful eye of the Department of Agriculture. Monitoring and supporting agricultural activities in these communities are vital for sustainable development and improved livelihoods.

5. Planning for Progress: 3rd Quarter Technical Review Meeting
The Department of Agriculture conducted its 3rd Quarter Technical Review Meeting, focusing on evaluating the past period’s activities and charting a course for the upcoming quarter. Key matters discussed included staff postings, nominations for the Municipal level National Farmers Day Celebrations, the Fall Armyworm situation, updates on the IGNITIA Weather App, welfare issues, and feedback on the Research Extension Linkage Committee (RELC) planning session. Additionally, miscellaneous matters were addressed, reinforcing the department’s holistic approach to agricultural advancement.

For more information and updates, visit the Department of Agriculture’s official channels. Stay tuned for the next issue of the Weekly News Bulletin, your window into the latest agricultural developments in Kwahu West Municipal.

The Nkawkaw cattle market, a burgeoning trading hub in the Kwahu West Municipal, has completed its first month of operation, drawing attention from Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, who paid a visit to the market on Tuesday. The visit was aimed at gaining firsthand insights into the market’s performance and fostering engagement with its leaders.

During his visit, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, known for his commitment to community development, addressed the market leaders and urged them to prioritize discipline among traders to ensure the market’s long-term success. He emphasized the significance of adhering to veterinary rules and regulations to maintain the health and well-being of the livestock brought to the market.

One of the key areas of focus during the visit was revenue generation for the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly. Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo encouraged market leaders to ensure that traders dutifully pay their taxes and other levies to support the community’s growth and development.

The matter of security at the market was not overlooked, as the honorable Municipal Chief Executive assured the traders of increased police patrols to ensure a safe trading environment. Moreover, he pledged to expedite the process of providing electricity to the market area, which would further enhance its operational efficiency.

Expressing his gratitude to the traders, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo acknowledged the positive impact of the cattle market on the local economy. The market has already played a vital role in creating employment opportunities for the people of Kwahu West Municipal, which has contributed to a boost in livelihoods.

In concluding his speech, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo assured the traders of his unwavering support in making the Nkawkaw cattle market a resounding success. His commitment to working collaboratively with the market leaders and stakeholders indicated his dedication to driving sustainable growth and prosperity for the entire community.

As the Nkawkaw cattle market continues to grow, the collaborative efforts between market leaders and the local government are expected to propel the market towards becoming a significant economic hub in the region. With an emphasis on discipline, compliance with regulations, and security measures, the future of the market looks promising, attracting more traders and further benefiting the people of Kwahu West Municipal.

Kwahu Daah, Kwahu West – Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, the Municipal Chief Executive of Kwahu West Municipal Assembly, presided over the official opening of a new Roman Catholic School building in Kwahu Daah on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. The impressive edifice, a joint effort between the community and the NGO Rural Communities Development International Inc., marks a significant milestone in providing quality education to the residents of Kwahu Daah.

Led by Dr. Kwame Obeng, a native of Kwahu Daah, the Rural Communities Development International Inc. collaborated with the people of Kwahu Daah to construct the school building. The structure comprises a three-unit classroom block, complete with accompanying furniture, a fully furnished computer lab, a science lab, a headmaster’s office, a staff common room, and toilet facilities. The building also features a mechanized borehole to ensure a sustainable water supply for the school.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, the Member of Parliament for Nkawkaw, Hon. Joseph Frempong, the Presiding Member, Hon. Emmanuel Boansi Darkwa, and a host of other dignitaries. Their presence reflected the significance of the occasion and the collaborative spirit in realizing the educational goals of the community.

Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo expressed his appreciation for the partnership between the NGO and the people of Kwahu Daah, emphasizing the importance of community-driven initiatives in advancing education. He commended the efforts of Dr. Kwame Obeng and the Rural Communities Development International Inc. for their commitment to improving the educational infrastructure in the region.

The newly inaugurated Roman Catholic School building symbolizes the collective dedication of the community and external organizations in fostering a conducive learning environment for students. With its well-equipped classrooms, computer and science labs, and modern facilities, the school is poised to offer an enhanced educational experience to its students.

The event served as a testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement in driving positive change. As Kwahu Daah continues to prioritize education, the partnership between local stakeholders and organizations like the Rural Communities Development International Inc. paves the way for a brighter future for the community’s children.

The Kwahu West Municipal National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) Secretariat, in collaboration with the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly, Forestry Commission Division of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Agricultural Department, and other stakeholders, officially launched the 2023 edition of The Green Ghana Day. The launch took place on June 9, 2023, at Jamasi No. 2, a community in the Kwahu West Municipality, under the theme “Our Forest, Our Health.”

The launch event witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including local community leaders, government officials, and representatives from various organizations. Notably, esteemed guests included Nana Tenkorang Kopreso II, Chief of Jamasi Kese, along with his entourage. Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), and other key officials from the Kwahu West Municipal Assembly were also in attendance. Representatives from the Forestry Commission, Agricultural Department, and NADMO were present to show their support for the initiative.

The program was aptly chaired by Nana Tenkorang Kopreso II, Chief of Jamasi No. 2. Heads of departments took turns addressing the gathering, emphasizing the importance of trees for life and the environment. Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo delivered the keynote address, urging the attendees, particularly the schoolchildren, to take ownership of the trees and ensure their survival. On behalf of the President of Ghana, he officially launched the project for the Kwahu West Municipality.

To commence the event, Nana Tenkorang Kopreso II planted the first seedling, symbolically inaugurating the Green Ghana Day. This act was followed by Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, MCE, who also planted a seedling. Subsequently, other dignitaries present actively participated by planting various species of trees such as Cedrella, Cassia, and Bamboo in the Jamasi community.

The Green Ghana Day launch marked a significant step toward the conservation and restoration of Ghana’s forests. With the collective effort of the Kwahu West Municipality and its stakeholders, this initiative promises a greener and healthier future for the entire region.

Fodoa Senior High School (FOSEC) in the Kwahu West Municipality took a proactive step in disaster prevention by launching a Disaster Prevention Club in collaboration with the Kwahu West Municipal NADMO Secretariat. The school hosted a team led by Alhaji Mohammed Hamidu, the Municipal Director, for an education and sensitization program aimed at equipping students and teachers with knowledge on disaster prevention and creating awareness in the community. The morning session, which commenced at 7:30am, saw over 200 students and seven teachers gather at FOSEC to participate in the informative and engaging program. The team from the Kwahu West Municipal NADMO Secretariat included key officials such as the Deputy Municipal Director, Daniel Agyekum Ansah, the Administrator, Andrew Ofosu Ansong, and several Zonal Directors. The primary objective of the meeting was to raise awareness and empower the attendees to become Disaster Prevention Agents within their school and the wider community. The formation of the Disaster Prevention Club is part of an initiative by the municipal secretariat to involve second cycle institutions, both private and government-owned, in disaster-related activities. The educational program covered various aspects of disaster prevention and preparedness. It began with an introduction to the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) and its crucial role in managing and mitigating the impact of disasters. The students and teachers were familiarized with NADMO’s activities, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and swift response during emergencies. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to understanding different types of disasters that commonly occur in the Kwahu West Municipality. Participants gained insights into the prevailing disasters and their potential consequences. Of particular focus was flood prevention, considering its recurrent nature in the local area. Addressing domestic fire incidents and their prevention formed another vital component of the program. Causes of household fires were discussed, accompanied by practical fire prevention measures. Students and teachers were urged to prioritize fire safety in their homes and actively participate in disseminating fire prevention knowledge throughout the community. Promoting responsible waste disposal practices was highlighted as an essential aspect of disaster prevention. The participants were educated on the proper methods of waste management, emphasizing the environmental risks associated with improper disposal. By encouraging responsible waste practices, the community can reduce the likelihood of environmental disasters. The importance of tree planting and the upcoming June 9th Green Ghana Day were also emphasized during the session. Students and teachers were urged to actively engage in tree planting initiatives and play their part in raising awareness about environmental conservation. At the conclusion of the program, the newly formed Disaster Prevention Club was officially launched at FOSEC. The club aims to empower students as Disaster Prevention Agents and serve as representatives of the school in NADMO and disaster-related activities. This initiative aligns with the municipality’s broader vision of actively involving educational institutions in disaster prevention efforts. As the sensitization and education exercise ended at around 9:30am, participants expressed gratitude for the valuable knowledge they acquired during the program. The launch of the Disaster Prevention Club marks a significant step forward in fostering a culture of preparedness and resilience among the students and teachers of Fodoa SHS. To ensure the longevity of the program’s impact, it is recommended that regular meetings, workshops, and collaborations with relevant stakeholders be organized by the Disaster Prevention Club. By doing so, Fodoa SHS and the wider community can enhance their disaster preparedness and prevention measures, creating a safer and more resilient environment for all.

On Friday, April 21st, 2023, the Honourable Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) alongside the Municipal Co-ordinating Director (MCD), Heads of Departments, and all the Assembly staff donated items to the Muslim community in the Municipality to aid them in their Eid Ul-Fitr celebration.

The donation, which included 16 bags of rice, 10 boxes of oil, and 8 boxes of tomato paste, was warmly welcomed by the Chief Imam and his entourage, who expressed their gratitude to the MCE and the Assembly staff for their kind gesture.

During the brief ceremony, the MCE welcomed the Chief Imam and his entourage and thanked them for their support and prayers during the Ramadan period. He also commended them for their efforts in promoting peace in the Zongo Community through their guidance and supervision of the youth.

The MCE reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to ensuring that every person in the Municipality receives a fair share of the Assembly’s resources and aid, and that the donation was just a small part of that effort.

The Chief Imam, on behalf of the Muslim community, expressed his gratitude for the donation and stated that the items would help put smiles on the faces of some needy families in the Muslim community during the Eid Ul-Fitr celebration. He also promised to continue praying for the Municipality’s progress and peaceful co-existence in their communities.

The donation was a testament to the Honourable MCE’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and fostering a sense of community in the Municipality.

Under the leadership of Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo, the Kwahu West Municipality celebrated Ghana’s 66th National Independence Day. The event commemorated the country’s independence on 6th March 1957 under Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, the first Prime Minister and subsequent ceremonial President. Themed “Our Unity, Our Strength, and Our Purpose,” the celebration emphasized the importance of unity and peace for Ghana’s continued progress.

During the 6th March parade, Hon. Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo, the Municipal Chief Executive for Kwahu West, highlighted the significance of national unity.

“What we need as a nation at this point is unity. As it is said, we are only as strong as we are united and as weak as we are divided. Unity doesn’t mean we won’t have differences, but differences are beneficial as they make us unique individuals,” he stated.

Lawyer Yaw Owusu Addo further explained that as a nation, the collective goal is to build a better Ghana for present and future generations.

“We can only achieve our common goal if we unite and become stronger. When our goals, interests, and purposes align, we can create a better Ghana,” he added.

He took the opportunity to urge traditional authorities in the Kwahu region to unite and contribute to the development of Kwahu land and Ghana as a whole.

“I would like to use this opportunity to encourage our traditional authorities in Kwahu to unite and actively contribute to the growth and development of Kwahu land,” he emphasized.

Additionally, he announced that the municipality has implemented measures to enhance economic development. These include the introduction of an on-street parking project to manage traffic congestion, improve street lighting, and ensure the safety of all road users in Nkawkaw.

He also highlighted the plan to improve infrastructure within the central business district of Nkawkaw. This involves installing street lights to enhance security, erecting road signs for better direction, designating strategic areas as bus stops, and reconstructing the Nkawkaw central market.

“I urge you all to provide your utmost cooperation to ensure the smooth implementation of these policies when they are rolled out,” he urged.

Concluding his address, Lawyer Owusu Addo stressed the importance of sanitation and called on everyone to maintain cleanliness in their environment, as it is often said that cleanliness is next to godliness.

CHILD PROTECTION REPORT (CLICK TO DOWNLOAD)

The Disability Fund Management Committee (DFMC) carried out a disbursement exercise on December 22, 2022, in accordance with the government’s directive to MMDAs to stop giving unsustainable physical cash to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and instead to equip them with sustainable business items.

The beneficiaries received items from Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, Mr. Peter Kwabla Tetteh, the Municipal Coordinating Director, and Hon. Emmanuel Boansi-Darkwa, the Presiding Member, including deep freezers, sewing machines, cocoa spraying machines, bags of maize, and yam tubers. The Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, in conjunction with the DFMC and Federation of the Associations of PWDs, coordinated the disbursement program.

In his speech in the Municipal Assembly’s forecourt, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, stated that the government was committed to improving the quality of life for all Ghanaians, particularly the less fortunate citizens of the nation. The Government has switched from providing cash support to providing products that generate income in order to make them productive and also increase their wellness.

He added that the presentation should be considered as a step against poverty because it would allow people to engage in economic activities to support their own livelihoods. He also advised them against considering selling the items rather than using them more effectively.He underlined that they needed to take good care of the things and that there would be regular checks to see how their commercial endeavors were doing. The Hon. MCE then expressed his gratitude to the DFMC and Social Welfare for their assistance and asked them to keep up the good work.

The Municipal Chairman of the Ghana Federation of Disability (GFD), Mr. Joseph Abankwah, thanked the government for prioritizing the needs of PWDs and asked the recipients to make good use of the donated goods to enhance their quality of life. He also pleaded with those who did not benefit to remain hopeful because the program was still going strong and their turn will come soon.

The recipients expressed their sincere gratitude to the Assembly for taking them into consideration and pledged to use the resources wisely in ways that would benefit them.

The Kwahu West Municipality celebrated its Farmers’ Day a week ahead of the National Farmers’ Day, with a call for businessmen and women to invest in agricultural production, processing, and marketing. The Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Yaw Owusu Addo, made the call at the celebration held in Saafi, one of the towns in the municipality.

The MCE, in his address on the theme “Accelerating Agricultural Development Through Value Addition,” highlighted the importance of value addition in resolving the issues facing the agricultural sector. He encouraged Kwahu businessmen and women both at home and abroad to partner with the Assembly to create a sustainable local food system that would provide more employment opportunities for farmers, particularly the youth.

Mr. Francis Dogbese, the Municipal Agriculture Director, also emphasized the significance of value addition in agriculture production. He congratulated the award winners and urged them to continue to work hard to ensure food security for the Municipality and the country as a whole.

At the event, 16 deserving farmers were awarded for their hard work, with Mr. Bob Abdulai from Ekowso emerging as the overall best farmer. He received a certificate, a tricycle, a wheelbarrow, two pairs of Wellington boots, a Knapsack sprayer, and five cutlasses.

The Kwahu West Municipality has vast arable land suitable for agriculture activities, and under the Planting for Food and Jobs Programme, the Municipality has so far distributed a total of 150 bags of seed maize and 300 sachets of cabbage seeds to 792 beneficiary farmers. The inputs covered both male and female farmers and aimed to increase production to supply the requirements of processing industries in the country.

The District Farmers’ Day celebration in the Eastern Region was ahead of the National Farmers’ Day, scheduled for December 2, 2022, as the Eastern Region was to host the National Farmers’ Day celebration