The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, has underscored the importance of decentralisation and strategic planning in accelerating development, as he attended a sod-cutting and handing-over ceremony for the construction of a CHPS compound with ancillary facilities at Agorgbe in the South Tongu District.

The event was attended by the Member of Parliament for South Tongu, Hon. Maxwell Kwame Lukutor; the District Chief Executive, Hon. Victoria Dzeklo; the District Director of Health; heads of departments; and other distinguished stakeholders.

In his remarks, Hon. Gunu noted that in the past, the District Assemblies Common Fund was not sent directly to the assemblies, a situation that significantly hampered development at the local level. He explained that President John Dramani Mahama reversed this trend by ensuring that 80 per cent of the Common Fund is released directly to the District Assemblies, a commitment the President has successfully fulfilled.

The Regional Minister further highlighted the introduction of the Mahama Care initiative to address the health needs of Ghanaians, stressing that such social interventions require adequate infrastructure to be effective. He said the construction of the CHPS compound would not only serve Agorgbe but also benefit surrounding communities.

Hon. Gunu also reiterated President Mahama’s directive that all government appointees must ensure the completion of every project commenced, emphasizing accountability and continuity in governance. Touching on development planning, he spoke about the Medium-Term Development Plan and encouraged regular site meetings throughout the six-month construction period to ensure quality work and timely completion of the facility.

The project forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare delivery and improve access to quality health services across the Volta Region.