Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene has declared that Ghana's development must not restart after every change of government. He made this crucial statement at the commissioning of the new Ashanti Regional Office of the Minerals Commission in Kumasi. Dr. Amoakohene stressed the need for successive administrations to complete and sustain projects initiated by previous political parties.
This call addresses a significant challenge in Ghana's national development: the inability to maintain successful projects and institutions beyond political shifts. Dr. Amoakohene noted that the problem is not a lack of good ideas or infrastructure. Instead, it is the frequent abandonment of public facilities like hospitals, schools, and roads simply because a prior administration started them. This practice undermines public investment and hinders progress.
This issue fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of ensuring efficient public spending and long-term infrastructure development. The country has often seen projects stall or become derelict due to political transitions. Such discontinuity leads to significant financial losses and delays in delivering essential services to citizens. Ensuring continuity is vital for Ghana to achieve its development goals and maximize the impact of its public funds.
Dr. Amoakohene commended President John Dramani Mahama for his commitment to completing legacy projects. The President has directed that 20 percent of funds received under the Common Fund be reserved specifically for completing abandoned or inherited projects. This initiative covers projects from Ghana's first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, through all subsequent administrations. This policy aims to ensure that valuable public assets are not wasted.
The implications of this policy are far-reaching for Ghana's public finance and infrastructure landscape. It signals a potential shift towards more strategic and sustainable project management. Decision-makers and markets will watch closely to see how effectively this directive is implemented. Successful execution could lead to better value for taxpayer money and improved public services. It could also foster greater investor confidence in Ghana's long-term development plans.
Dr. Amoakohene also praised the Minerals Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. They took responsibility for completing the regional office despite initial funding challenges. He highlighted this as a prime example of continuity in governance. The Minister stated that the commissioning of the facility represents a commitment to strengthening public institutions. It also aims to improve efficiency and professionalism, bringing public services closer to the people.
The new facility will deepen decentralization and enhance the management of Ghana's mineral resources. Dr. Amoakohene urged authorities to prioritize maintenance to keep the facility in good condition. He emphasized that public infrastructure belongs to the state and its people. Therefore, collective responsibility is essential for its protection and upkeep. His office, located nearby, will monitor the facility's maintenance. This oversight aims to ensure the commission sustains the high standards set by the new infrastructure. This commitment to maintenance is crucial for the long-term viability of public investments.