The Oti Regional Minister, Mr John Kwadwo Gyapong, has stressed the need for youth associations in the region to reposition themselves as a driving force for development in order to support the government’s development effort

Mr Gyapong said meaningful development could not be achieved if the youth remained silent on issues affecting the development needs of their communities. He urged them to be active participants in the region’s development rather than mere observers.

The Oti Regional Minister made these remarks on Tuesday when executives of the Krachi Youth Association (KYA) paid a courtesy call on him at his office in Dambai, the regional capital.

The meeting focused on development activities in the region, as well as challenges and opportunities for growth.

Mr Gyapong commended the KYA for the visit and for demonstrating interest in the development of the Oti Region.

He said the Association should strategically transform itself into a major driving force to help ensure accelerated development in the region.

He noted that although the government’s development programmes for the region were on course, it was crucial for the youth to show greater interest in development-related issues. He said the KYA had demonstrated patriotism, which deserved commendation.

Mr Gyapong pointed out that the government’s development plan for the region remained intact and would be strictly implemented.

He called for collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of projects aimed at improving the living conditions of the people.

The Regional Minister disclosed that the government would commence work on major development projects in the region this year.

These include the construction of a bridge over the River Oti at Dambai, the building of a regional hospital, and the construction of a military barracks, among others.

He explained that the projects, which are aimed at promoting the socio-economic growth of the region, would open up the area and position it as one of the country’s economic hubs, thereby facilitating accelerated development.

Mr Gyapong also assured residents of the government’s commitment to resolving the persistent water and electricity challenges confronting the region over the years, adding that the future of the Oti Region looked bright.

The Regional Minister further stressed the need for all regional administrative offices still operating from the Volta Region to be permanently relocated to the Oti Regional capital, Dambai, to enhance effective governance and coordination of state institutions.

The National President of the Krachi Youth Association, Mr Emmanuel Ntoso, commended the Regional Minister and the government for efforts being made to bring much-needed development to the people of the region.

Mr Ntoso assured that the Association would actively mobilise support for government development initiatives to accelerate growth and transform the Oti Region.