Residents of Keta Central in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region are protesting the decision to site the government’s proposed 24-hour economy market and a University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) pharmacy projects outside their community. The residents describe the move as unfair and politically motivated, asserting that Keta Central possesses all the necessary criteria to host these developments.
Community Outcry Over Project Diversion
Mr. James Ocloo Akorli, a former Assembly Member for the Keta Central Electoral Area and a community leader, voiced significant frustration. He highlighted that despite the area’s recognized commercial importance and its existing round-the-clock trading activities, the projects have been diverted to other communities.
“It is not true to say that we don’t have the lands for development projects,” Akorli stated. He characterized the relocation as a betrayal of a community that has consistently supported government initiatives. The residents are appealing directly to President John Dramani Mahama to intervene and ensure Keta Central receives its equitable share of national development, specifically the UHAS pharmacy and the 24-hour economic market.
Undermining Policy Objectives
Akorli further argued that situating the 24-hour economy market away from Keta Central directly undermines the policy’s intended objectives. He explained that Keta Central serves as a vital commercial hub and a critical transit point for traders, commuters, and fishing communities along the coast.
The area already experiences continuous activity, and its strategic location would significantly benefit from the upcoming Keta harbour project, attracting even more visitors and commerce. The current decision, they believe, misses a prime opportunity to leverage existing infrastructure and economic dynamism.
Concerns Over Healthcare Access
Community elder Mr. Kojo Baba echoed these sentiments, specifically addressing the UHAS pharmacy project. He noted that the project was initially proposed for Keta, and its relocation denies a densely populated community convenient access to essential pharmaceutical services.
“We are not against development going to other communities, but what we are saying is that Keta Central deserves its fair share,” Baba emphasized. He pointed out a lack of consultation with residents regarding the site selection, stating that decisions were made without deliberation or agreement from the community.
Baba stressed Keta Central’s substantial contributions to the municipality’s growth, asserting that the community should not be marginalized in the distribution of development projects.
Allegations of Political Bias and Inequality
Protesters alleged a recurring pattern where development projects are diverted from Keta Central to communities with stronger political connections. They contend that this trend exacerbates inequality and fosters grievances, potentially eroding public trust in government and inciting unrest.
The residents have formally called upon the Keta Member of Parliament, Mr. Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. Wisdom Seade, and the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu. They demand engagement to explain the rationale behind the site selection decisions for both the market and the pharmacy.
Furthermore, the protesters advocated for the establishment of clear, transparent criteria for siting 24-hour economy market projects across the nation. They believe such transparency would mitigate suspicion, prevent inter-community conflicts, and ensure a more equitable distribution of development resources.
Official Response and Land Issues
In response to the concerns, MCE Mr. Wisdom Seade and MP Mr. Kwame Dzudzorli Gakpey stated in an earlier interview with the Ghana News Agency that proper community engagement had indeed taken place prior to the project locations being finalized.
However, they also highlighted significant challenges, particularly concerning land litigation issues, which they identified as a major impediment to development in the area. The officials urged traditional leaders, elders, and authorities to proactively release available lands for development projects to facilitate progress.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing dispute highlights a critical need for transparent communication and equitable resource allocation in local development projects. As Keta Central awaits a response and potential reconsideration of the project sites, the community’s determination to secure its fair share of development will likely continue to be a focal point. The effectiveness of future government engagements and the establishment of clear siting criteria will be crucial in preventing similar grievances and fostering trust in the development process across the region.
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