1 District, 1 Equipment Initiative Launched
…Over 5,000 Ghanaians To Get Jobs
President Akufo-Addo, has launched a landmark initiative which would see all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country allocated earth-moving equipment as part of efforts to decentralize infrastructural developments.
The initiative dubbed; “District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP)” is aimed to empower all 261 MMDAs with the needed resources to address the deplorable road network challenges within their jurisdictions, which has become a national security threat to citizens.
The 2,240 units of equipment, which include bulldozers, backhoes, motor graders, rollers, tipper trucks, concrete mixers among others, marked a major boost to the country’s road infrastructure.
It is expected to create about five thousand direct jobs for Ghanaian construction workers in the coming days, to mitigate issues of rising unemployment in the country.
Addressing a gathering during the ceremony at Independence Square yesterday July 31, 2024, to commission the equipment, President Akufo-Addo, said the event marks an important milestone in the nation’s pursuit of infrastructural development.
“I am pleased to announce the commissioning of an impressive fleet of equipment that will be distributed to all MMDAs across the country. This fleet of two thousand, two hundred and forty (2,240) units includes motor graders, back hoes, rollers, wheel loaders, bulldozers, tipper trucks, concrete mixers, water tankers, low beds and other essential equipment. These machines are not merely tools; they are instruments of change, enablers of progress, and symbols of our dedication to improving the lives of Ghanaians.”
He emphasized his government’s commitment to decentralising development and transforming road networks across Ghana, while acknowledging the progress made and the need for more to be done.
“This event marks an important milestone in our pursuit of infrastructural development and I am honoured to commemorate this momentous occasion with you all. This ceremony is proof of the determination of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government to decentralize development and ensure that every corner of Ghana benefits from the progress and prosperity we strive to achieve,” the President said.
They were acquired through a collaboration between the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) and the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, with Chinese counterparts.
President Akufo-Addo, thanked China for the partnership, which aims to improve Ghanaians’ lives.
He assured the nation that his government, remains dedicated to improving road infrastructure, promoting connectivity, and driving prosperity.
The Minister for Roads and Highways, Francis Asenso Boakye, stressed the importance of improving the district road network, citing its crucial role in connecting communities, facilitating trade, and ensuring access to essential services.
He noted that DRIP-2024, aims to create safer, more efficient roads that will significantly boost local economies and improve the quality of life for citizens.
He expressed his commitment to building a robust infrastructure that supports growth and prosperity, highlighting the government’s dedication to developing Ghana’s road network.
Asenso Boakye, called for continued collaboration to pave the way for a brighter and more connected future.
With DRIP-2024, Ghana takes a significant step towards enhancing its infrastructure, promoting economic growth, and improving the lives of its citizens.
The Administrator of Common Fund, Irene Naa Torshie Addo-Larte, expressed joy in the initiative, stating that it demonstrated the fund’s commitment to empowering local governments to foster development and improve citizens’ lives.
She explained that, the commissioned equipment will enable districts to construct, maintain, and improve their road networks, facilitating trade, movement of people and goods, and contributing to socio-economic development.
She thanked the partners for their support and collaboration, acknowledging the President and Vice President’s acceptance and support of the initiative.
She also expressed gratitude to the Jospong Group for the technical support and partnership.
In a welcome address, the Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group, Dr Joseph Siaw Agyepong, on behalf of the group and J.A. Plant Pool, commended President Akufo-Addo, for his unwavering support in addressing Ghana’s challenges.
He announced the successful establishment of 11 compost plants and pledged to provide technical support for the machinery and establish a vehicle assembly branch in all 16 regions.
According to him, it was welcoming that his group, will be playing a significant role in the DRIP, aimed at transforming Ghana’s road infrastructure.
He highlighted that DRIP, will boost district assemblies’ capacity, create jobs, stimulate economic growth, enhance infrastructural development, improve market access, and upgrade health delivery systems.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guangxi LiuGong Machinery Co., Ltd., Mr Zeng Guang’An, expressed his company’s happiness in being a key partner in the DRIP
He said, LiuGong, a leading manufacturer of construction machinery, provides advanced equipment for the transformative initiative, which aims to improve road networks across the country.
He assured that his outfit’s commitment to delivering reliable and innovative solutions that drive progress and development.
The launch was attended by government officials, the National Chief Imam, traditional leaders, and stakeholders in the road construction industry.
Source: Anchorghana.com
