The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has directed the Sekyere South District Assembly to immediately remove all unauthorized structures and activities encroaching on the Agona Lorry Terminal, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to public safety and road infrastructure.
The directive was issued during the Minister’s working visit to the district as part of an ongoing regional tour to assess development projects under the Government’s “Reset Ghana” agenda.
Inspecting the Agona Lorry Terminal alongside the District Chief Executive, Assembly Members and technical officers, Dr. Amoakohene observed widespread encroachment on pedestrian walkways and sections of the roadway by traders and illegal structures.
He described the development as unacceptable and called for urgent action to restore order.
“These roads and pavements were constructed to facilitate the safe movement of people and vehicles. Allowing them to be obstructed creates congestion, increases accident risks and undermines public investment,” he stated.
The Minister tasked the Assembly’s Physical Planning, Works and Urban Roads Departments to collaborate with security agencies to reclaim all affected areas and strictly enforce planning regulations to prevent future encroachments.
He stressed that government would not tolerate activities that compromise infrastructure financed with public resources.
Dr. Amoakohene also addressed concerns raised by residents regarding non-functional and inadequate streetlights in parts of Agona.
He reminded Assembly Members that ensuring adequate street lighting within their electoral areas formed part of their responsibilities and urged them to take immediate steps to address the issue.
According to him, communities without proper lighting become vulnerable to crime and other security challenges.
“A well-lit community is a safe and productive community. It enhances security, promotes economic activities and improves the quality of life for residents,” he noted.
He further directed the District Assembly to make streetlight provision a priority in its budget and development plans.
As part of efforts to improve educational facilities in the district, Dr. Amoakohene announced that Agona SDA Senior High School and Agona Training College would benefit from infrastructure projects under this year’s GETFund allocations.
The projects are expected to improve classroom facilities, accommodation and the overall learning environment for students and staff.
The Minister assured residents that his office would closely monitor implementation to ensure contractors deliver quality work within the stipulated timelines.
Collective Responsibility for Development
Concluding the visit, Dr. Amoakohene urged residents, traditional authorities, Assembly Members and local officials to work together to protect public infrastructure and support development initiatives.
He emphasised that sustainable development required shared responsibility, adherence to planning regulations and active community participation.
The Sekyere South visit forms part of a broader regional assessment exercise aimed at evaluating project implementation, addressing local development challenges and ensuring alignment with national priorities across the Ashanti Region.
