JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY HOLDS A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY MEETING ON THE OUTBREAK OF CHOLERA IN THE MUNICIPALITY
The Jomoro Municipal Assembly on 18th December 2024 held a public health emergency management committee meeting at the Assembly Hall following the recent cholera cases recorded in the Municipality. The objective of the meeting was to deliberate on the matter and make preventive decisions. At the meeting, the Municipal Health Director, Mr Gabriel Yengliereh disclosed that as of 13th December 2024, Twenty-Nine (29) cases of all forms of cholera have been recorded, four (4) confirmed and one (1) death recorded. As part of efforts to prevent the spread in the communities, the Health Director urged community members to observe the following preventive measures: • Drink water from safe sources, i.e. boiled water or chlorinated • Wash hands with soup under running water after taking care of the patient, visiting the toilet and before handling food • Cook food thoroughly and eat it while hot • Fruits and vegetables should be washed with concentrated salt and rinse with clean water from safe sources • Dispose of refuse in a properly constructed reuse pit • Avoid shaking hands at public gatherings, particularly funerals, during cholera outbreaks He entreated the church leaders to enforce preventive measures during the Christmas conventions and all other gatherings.
JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY CELEBRATES 40TH FARMERS’ DAY.
The Jomoro Municipal Assembly held its 40th Farmers’ Day celebration on Friday, 8th November 2024, at New Kabenlasuazo under the theme “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.” to honour the hard work and resilience of farmers within the Municipality. The event was graced by Awlae Annor Adjei III, Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Council, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louiza Iris Arde, the Municipal Coordinating Director, Mr. Emmanuel Boateng, Heads of Departments of the Assembly, Chiefs and Elders of Kabenlasuazo, and a cross-section of the public. In her keynote address, Hon. Louiza Iris Arde underlined the critical role of agriculture in ensuring food security and resilience in the face of climate change. She acknowledged the farmers’ efforts in sustaining food production and emphasised the importance of adopting climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on crop yields. She revealed various agricultural interventions that the Assembly is implementing to support farmers such as the supply of improved seed varieties, irrigation projects, and training programs focused on sustainable farming practices to farmers. She expressed deep appreciation to Jomoro Rural Bank, Nzema Maanle Rural Bank, Quantum Terminal PLC, Ghana National Gas Company, Adamus Mining Resources, Uptown Ventures, Bengov Ventures, Ghana Rubber Estate, Good Day Mineral Water and Hon. Francis Ndede Siah for their donations and support to the Assembly. Awulae Annor Adjei III commended the farmers for their dedication and urged the government to implement initiatives aimed at advancing agriculture in the Municipality to support farmers. He emphasised the need for continuous investment in agricultural technology and infrastructure to boost productivity and secure a sustainable food future. The Assembly presented awards to outstanding farmers to appreciate their efforts. Mr. Ngamah Blay from Sowodadzem emerged as the overall Municipal Best Farmer.
COMMUNITY FORUM HELD AT NEWTOWN
A community forum was held on Thursday 25th July 2024 at Newtown in the Jomoro Municipality.The objective of the forum was to sensitise the residents to monitor and report on issues related to border security and facilitate continuous engagements between the residents and the various security agencies in the area.In attendance was the National Coordinator of the Ghana Boundary Commission (GhBC), Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the Chief Director of the Western Regional Coordinating Council, Mr Frederick Agyemang (Rep. the Regional Minister), the Municipal Chief Executive for Jomoro Municipal Assembly, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde, the Municipal Coordinating Director, Mrs Joyce Akosua Angmorteh Miezah, the Chief of Half Assini, Nana Ayebie Amihere VI, Heads of Security Services, Media Personnel and Representatives from Ghana National Petroleum Corporation.Addressing the residents and security officials at the event, Major General Emmanuel Kotia said the Ghana Boundary Commission is mandated by law to be responsible for the protection of land and maritime boundaries across the country.He said the forum forms part of a series of programs being conducted along all land border communities especially, Newtown where there is a linkage to the maritime boundary to inspect the International Maritime Boundary Line that demarcates Ghana and Cote D’ Ivoire on Ghana’s western territorial integrity.Major General Kotia disclosed that Ghana’s maritime boundary is intact as prescribed by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) agreement and the commission is in collaboration with the National Boundary Commission of Cote D’ Ivoire to continue the inspection of the pillars along the frontiers in the west.He mentioned that the cooperation between the community, government officials, security services and stakeholders in the area had been encouraging and that the commission would continue to engage the local communities and government actors to ensure that the frontiers are well marked and protected at all times.He divulged that cross-border cooperation is very significant and Ghana had recently ratified the AU Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation which would lead to a lot of collaboration between Ghana and her neighbours as far as cross-border issues are concerned.Major General Kotia said it behoves the commission to ensure that all boundary markers are visible for security agents and is currently in discussions with the National Boundary Commission of Cote D’Ivoire to reaffirm the internal boundary marks between Ghana and Cote D’Ivoire. He added that the commission would consult its Ivorian counterpart if there are issues the commission would willingly discuss with them and resolve them amicably.He concluded that the commission is aware of certain issues that had been brought before it and would liaise with the Municipal Assembly to see how they could jointly resolve them. He assured the gathering that as part of the commission’s responsibility, it would identify prime communities on the boundary demarcations and see the support that could be offered to them.The Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde on her part said the visit by the National Coordinator of GhBC to the Municipality was timely and the first of its kind since Ghana won the three-year maritime boundary dispute against Cote D’Ivoire in September 2017. She said with that ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) now behind, Ghana still has a long way to go in protecting her borders, especially the maritime boundaries to avert future deadlock.She said Jomoro is the hub of oil exploration and production both on-shore and offshore and as the President’s vision of putting up a 60 Billion United State Dollars Petroleum Hub in the Municipality draws closer, there would be greater security concerns in the area.As the Chairperson of the Municipal Security Council, she assured all and sundry the security agencies are and will always remain on top of their job to protect life, properties and maintain public safety and order.She expressed appreciation to the commission for the zeal with which it keeps a close watch on the country’s international frontiers, including the western boundaries and wished them the most memorable and rewarding visit to Jomoro.The residents were allowed to ask questions and satisfactory answers were provided by the MCE and security officers in charge.A surveillance drone simulation was conducted to confirm if there were irregular activities ongoing at the sea and the land border and the joint maritime patrol team led the National Coordinator and his entourage to inspect pillar 55 that demarcates Ghana and Cote D’Ivoire.
PRESIDENT NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO-ADDO BREAKS GROUND FOR PHASE ONE OF THE PETROLEUM HUB IN JOMORO MUNICIPALITY
The petroleum hub is a ground-breaking megaproject development in the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Nzema Traditional Council in the Western Region of Ghana. PHDC is intended to be a leading integrated petroleum complex created to add value to Africa’s upstream and downstream oil and gas value chain. Upon completion, the hub will span over an area of 20,000 acres and will house a complex web of onshore, offshore, and ancillary assets not limited to refineries, petrochemical plants, and storage tanks intended to change the face of the petrochemical industry on the continent. A total of 780,000 jobs will be created during the development phase and beyond with a significant positive outlook on the economy. It is expected to transform the economy through the export tax of about $1.56 billion by 2030, increase GDP by about 70 per cent, and create jobs over 780,000. In a move to actualize the project, the Government of Ghana on 18th June 2024 signed a US$12 billion agreement with TCP-UIC Consortium which comprises Touchstone Capital Group Holdings Ltd., UIC Energy Ghana Ltd., China Wuhan Engineering Co. Ltd., and China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Co. Ltd for the development of the first phase of the Petroleum Hub project in the Jomoro Municipal Area in the Western Region. This project aims at positioning Ghana as the destination for energy trading in the West Africa sub-region. This agreement is a critical step toward the President’s vision of Ghana becoming a regional hub for petroleum refining, storage, and distribution. On 19th August 2024, the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo performed a symbolic ground-breaking ceremony at Nawule in the Jomoro Municipality of the Western Region for Phase One of the Petroleum Hub Project. In addressing the Chiefs and residents of Jomoro, the President said the successful signing of the phase one agreement between the PHDC and TCPUIC Consortium on 18 June 2024 was a key milestone to bringing us to today and demonstrates government commitment to forwarding strategic partnerships that will drive the energy sector forward and ensure that all Ghanaian homes and industries get access to reliable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable energy.’’ He added that this is the first phase of our three-phase Hub estimated to cost 12 billion USD and it is expected to resolve in the construction of 300,000 Barrels per day refinery, 3 million cubic meters of storage tanks, petrochemical plant, jetty, and port infrastructure, off-base and ancillary infrastructure and social amenities. He disclosed that the project has been divided into three independent phases, each phase, upon completion, will serve as a stand-alone hub, forming collectively a petrochemical industrial Hub sprawling across some 20,000 acres. He said this method would ensure that no single consortium or investor can halt the project’s progress. He posited that upon conclusion, the project will complement, not compete, with existing refineries in Ghana and the West Africa Region such as Tema Oil Refinery, Sentuo, and Dangote. Led by the private sector, it is designed to capture and sell the African Continental Free Trade Area market, which is valued currently at some 3.4 trillion USD. He said he envisaged a facility equipped with cutting-edge technology, prioritizing environmental sustainability with green buffers supporting local fauna and flora. It will be a benchmark for crude and petroleum product pricing in Africa and promises to create some 780,000 direct and indirect jobs, help stabilise the currency, stimulate local economic development, and position Ghana as Africa’s premier petroleum and chemical petrochemical product. He added that he was confident this hub would be a secure, innovative workplace adhering to the highest industry standards and optimistic TCP-UIC consortium chosen for the first phase possesses the technical expertise and financial strength to meet the regulated timelines and standards. To the esteemed investors, TCP UIC Consortium, China Wuhan Engineering Company Limited, China Construction Third Engineering Bureau Company Limited, Touchstone Capital Group Holdings Limited, UIC Energy Ghana Limited, Touchstone UIC Energy Ghana Limited and Touchstone UIC Gamma Investments Limited, he assured them of government’s support in this exercise. Your success is our priority. I am immensely proud of our team and the journey ahead. This project is a bold solution to the challenges confronting the energy sector. To ensure we stay connected to the action, I propose that the headquarters of the Petroleum Health Development Corporation be located in Jomoro and renamed Jomoro Petroleum Hub Development Corporation. To support the project, the President said it is crucial to have a skilled workforce and therefore directed the Ministry of Energy and the Board to ensure the training of some 200,000 skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled Ghanaians in preparation for the project take-off, most of whom should come from the Jomoro enclave. He acknowledged the commitment of the stakeholders and people of Jomoro in generously offering their lives to the development and advancement of this important project. In recognition of their contribution and with deeper appreciation, the President said he had instructed the Ministry of Finance to release as the first step towards the discharge of the liability for compensation from 200 million Cedis to commence the payment of land compensation to the affected communities. He commended the stakeholders whose unwavering efforts to make the project reach this level and I called on them to unite in making this vision a reality for current and future generations. He encouraged Ghanaians to seize the opportunity the project presents and excel in every aspect and urged them to remain focused on the long-term goals and work tirelessly to build a proud nation. In closing, the President expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to the realization of the Petroleum Hub project. ‘’Your hard work and dedication have brought us to this critical moment, and I am confident we will continue to make great strides together. Let us move forward with optimism and determination, knowing that the future of Ghana is bright and full of promise’’. In attendance was Awulae Annor Adjei III (Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema
JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY DISTRIBUTES FURNITURE TO SCHOOLS AT ELUBO
The Jomoro Municipal Assembly has distributed 300 pieces of mono desks to five basic schools in Elubo as part of efforts to boost teaching and learning. The beneficiary schools include Nashiru Deen JHS, Gyegyekrom JHS, Elubo Catholic Primary, Elubo Catholic JHS and Cocoatown JHS. At a brief ceremony held at Elubo Catholic JHS premise, the Municipal Chief Executive for Jomoro Municipal, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde used the opportunity to explain the concept of the zonal council and its role in strengthening decentralization. She said the main function of the Zonal Council is to implement policies at the local level, mobilize the community to participate in decision-making, and mobilize revenue to develop the area. She admonished parents to support the zonal council by promptly paying their revenues to enable the Assembly to address the basic needs of the area. Presenting the furniture to the Headmistress of Elubo Catholic JHS, Mrs. Doris Arthur, the MCE noted that the Assembly is committed to providing the necessary logistics needed to raise the standard of education, adding that, more furniture and other teaching and learning materials would be provided to enhance teaching and learning. She implored the authorities of the beneficiary schools to take proper care of the furniture to prolong its lifespan to achieve its intended purpose. She urged the pupils to study hard to pass their exams to benefit from the Free Senior High School Policy. The MCE was accompanied by the Municipal Coordinating Director, Mrs. Joyce Akosua Angmorteh Miezah, Mr. Emmanuel Amihere, Rep. of the Municipal Education Director, Hon. Assembly Members of Elubo East and West Electoral Areas, Obahemaa Mozoma I, Amokwawsuazo and staff of Elubo Zonal Council.
DISTRIBUTION OF SINGLE-BURNER LPG COOKSTOVES IN THE JOMORO MUNICIPALITY
The Ministry of Energy on 25th June 2024 distributed 2,000 pieces of single burner LPG cookstoves and related accessories in the Jomoro Municipal. The distribution forms part of the Government’s planned distribution of 40,000 single LPG cookstoves across the country under the National LPG Promotion Program (NLPGPP). At a mini durbar held at the forecourt of the Municipal Assembly for the distribution, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde in a brief remark said the distribution of the cookstoves had been occasioned at a time when the world is overwhelmed with pragmatic ways of combating global warming and the consequences of polar ice meltdown with the resultant devastation caused by rising sea levels. She said the provision of the burners is an important initiative that will not only improve the quality of life for the residents but also promote a cleaner and more sustainable environment for future generations. She added that with the adoption of clean energy and good environmental practices, the effect of global warming will be diminished and countries in the world will save millions of dollars spent on building sea defence walls to secure coastal townships from rising sea levels due to human negligence. She divulged that traditional cooking methods such as open fires and charcoal stoves do not only contribute to indoor air pollution but also have a detrimental impact on the environment, hence by providing cookstoves to the residents, significant steps are being taken towards addressing the issues and creating a safer and healthier living environment for all. She expressed gratitude to the government, the Petroleum Commission, the Energy Commission, partners, and stakeholders who have supported in making this initiative a reality and urged the recipients to use it responsibly and follow all safety guidelines. Mr. Ali Nuhu Abeka, the Deputy Director, Petroleum Downstream (Ministry of Energy) in a brief remark disclosed that the goal of the NLPGPP is to ensure that at least 50% of Ghanaians have access to safer, cleaner, and environmentally friendly LPG for increased domestic, commercial, and industrial usage by 2030. He said the government has made it a policy to introduce a program called LPG for Development partitioned into two components, i.e., the Cylinder Recirculation model and NLPGPP. He said under the NLPGPP program, the ministry is supposed to distribute LPG single burner cook stoves with regulators and clips unlike previously where the burners were distributed with 6kg cylinders. ‘’This time around it is only burners that are been distributed because, under the cylinder recirculation model, individuals would no longer own the cylinders but LPG marketing companies would, the ministry is not distributing cylinders but cook stoves to support residents’’ he said. In attendance were Nana Ayebie Amihere V, Chief of Half Assini, Mrs. Joyce Akosua Angmorteh Miezah, Municipal Coordinating Director, Hon. Benedict Boadi (MP Rep.), Hon. Assembly Members (Half Assini), Hon. Mathew Nda, NPP Constituency Chairman and other NPP Executives, Mr. Alhassan Dramani, Nasara Coordinator, Religious Leaders, officials from the Ministry of Energy and residents of Half Assini and neighboring towns and villages.
CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP ON NEWLY DEVELOPED CLIENT SERVICE OPERATIONAL MANUAL FOR THE STAFF OF JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY
INTRODUCTION The Local Governance Service provides essential public services to citizens at all levels. The quality of the services delivered to clients and stakeholders depends on how well they are satisfied within an acceptable timeframe. The satisfaction levels of the services rendered are mostly reflected in the complaints, enquiries and feedback received through various channels at the Service institution. A major problem in ensuring client satisfaction is the need for a standardized procedure for managing complaints, enquiries and feedback in line with national standards to engender public confidence and trust for national development. The Service has, over the years, experienced several client service-related challenges including: Lack of clarity between and among the roles of a Receptionist, Client Service Unit and Public Relations and Complaint Committee, The Client Service Unit is not duly recognised within the Local Government Service Lack of clarity and understanding of the functions, roles and responsibilities of the LGS institution by clients/general public lack of standardized complaints management procedure within the LGS The lack of a standardized complaint, enquiries and feedback template Lack of trust and confidence in the Client Service management systems to address complaints, among others. To enhance understanding among staff regarding Client Service best practices, on 13th May 2024, a Capacity building training workshop on the newly developed Client Service Operational Manual was organised for Heads of Departments and Staff of the Jomoro Municipal Assembly at the Conference Room Annex AT Half Assini. The objectives of the training were to enable the staff to understand the current practices of client service management in the LGS and identify the gaps and best practices in current operations. DISCUSSION Through PowerPoint presentations, the facilitator, Mr. Alfred Buckman, the Regional Human Resource Manager (Western Regional Coordinating Council) engaged the staff in very interactive and demonstrative sessions on the following: Client Service Management Operational Structure and Job Description of the CSU LGS electronic complaints/enquiries/requests compliance monitoring procedure for handling visitors procedure for handling/managing client enquiries procedure for handling complaints procedure for handling feedback An opportunity was given to the staff to ask relevant questions regarding the topics discussed. The questioning and answering sessions as well as the demonstration were very informative and allowed the staff to share similar challenges and experiences they had as Client Service Officers (CSOs). The workshop achieved the following mileposts: Better understanding among staff regarding client service best practices. Increased awareness of the importance of timely feedback and efficient complaint resolution. Strengthened commitment towards delivering excellent service to both internal and external clients. Improved coordination and collaboration among Departments to streamline client service processes. CONCLUSION The training workshop on client service operational manual equipped staff with essential tools and knowledge to address challenges and enhance service delivery at the South Jomoro Municipal Assembly. The workshop set the stage for sustained improvements in client satisfaction and organizational effectiveness by emphasising client-centric approaches and management involvement.
JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY HOLDS FIRST ORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING – 2024
On Tuesday, 30th April, 2024 the Jomoro Municipal Assembly its First Ordinary General Assembly Meeting of the 8th session of the Assembly at the Conference Hall Annex. In attendance were the Presiding Member, Hon. Emmanuel Nvojo, the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde, the Municipal Coordinating Director, Mrs. Joyce Akosua Angmorteh Miezah, Heads of Departments of the Assembly, Hon. Assembly Members, Heads of Security Agencies, Zonal Council Administrators, representatives from the media and Nananom Presenting her Seasonal Address, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde welcomed all Hon. Assembly Members, Nananom, Heads of Department as well as distinguished guests and staff present. She thanked them for their advisable contribution to ensuring a successful inauguration of the new Hon. Assembly Members and swearing in of the new Presiding Member. Hon. MCE continued to give an account of the state of affairs in the Municipality for proper evaluation of the Assembly’s performance to take stock of how the Municipality is faring. She highlighted the following areas encapsulated below: PEACE AND SECURITY The MCE said the Municipality continues to remain relatively calm and with low crime rate. She commended the security agencies for the timely response to calls of the citizens in the Municipality to address their security needs and their commitment and dedication to ensuring law and order over the years. She encouraged them to do more as we approach the general elections in 2024 to ensure a free, fair, and successful election. AGRICULTURE The Hon. MCE disclosed that in a bid to increase food production for local consumption and export and to also create employment, the Government’s Flagship Programs such as planting for food and jobs, planting for exports and rural development, and rearing for food and jobs are still being implemented. To sustain this, she said the Assembly through the Department of Agriculture had instituted a five (5) year PFJ 2.0 program supported by the government as part of its measures to increase food production in all parts of the country. She added that as a result of the program, the Wildlife Division had carried out a sustainable livelihood and agroforestry for Two Hundred and Thirty-Two (232) farmers at Nawuley aimed at promoting green value chains in organic cocoa and environmental awareness to improve farmer’s knowledge and skills in sustainable agriculture and increase knowledge among farmers on resource management. EDUCATION Hon. MCE reiterated that education remains the building block of every nation and a source of developing human capital for the development of the Nation and she is committed to improving on the infrastructural and other logistical needs of schools to enhance teaching and learning. To this end, she said efforts have been made to adequately resource the Education Directorate to be able to monitor the activities of hardworking teachers to reduce absenteeism, minimize child delinquency to positively impact learning, and improve examination results. She disclosed that Peace International School in Half Assini participated in the Western Regional Inter District Quiz Competition and emerged second. She added that due to the heavy investments made by the government, parents, and guardians, the Assembly will continue to put in measures to ensure better performance of the students across the Municipality. Hon Louisa Aris Arde said the Management of the Assembly through the Elubo Zonal Council had used the teak trees at Nuba farms to manufacture Two Hundred Five (205) mono and dual desks and distribute them to some selected schools in Elubo. The beneficiary schools include: 1. Gyegyekrom JHS – 20 2. Nuba JHS – 20 3. Elubo Catholic JHS – 80 4. Ashirudeen JHS – 20 5. Cocoatown JHS – 20 6. Elubo Catholic Pri. – 45 HEALTH Giving key activities carried out in the first quarter of 2024, the Hon. MCE said apart from the routine services the health directorate offers, the Health Directorate carried out some sensitizations and drug administration exercises in the Municipality. Also, the Directorate organized Out Patient Department (OPD) Tuberculosis exercises at various health centers due to the growing cases of Tuberculosis (TB) to prevent people from contracting the disease. There was a mass drug administration of (ONCHO) at Elubo Sub Municipal and an investigation was conducted on deaths caused by Rabies at Nuba. The Directorate also piloted an outreach family planning at Fante Community, Half Assini, she said. DISTRIBUTION OF FREE GAS BURNERS The MCE revealed that the Assembly in collaboration with the Petroleum Commission received Two Thousand (2000) gas burners and distributed them to institutions, organizations, and security agencies in the Municipality. She said the exercise was in respect of the government initiative to promote the use of gas in every household across the nation. SOCIAL WELFARE AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT The MCE highlighted the following activities carried out by the Assembly to ensure social inclusion and to provide the needed assistance to the less fortunate compatriots in the Municipality: • A total of 85 PWDs received free health insurance • Payment of LEAP amounting GH₵ 243,675.60 to 1259 beneficiaries. • Sensitization of pupils on all forms of abuse to enable them to become aware of dangers associated with child adolescents. • A total of 14 cases (child maintenance (8), custody (3) pregnancy neglect (3) were resolved in the Municipality. • A total of 85 PWDs in the Municipality were registered and their specific needs were identified and taken care of by the Assembly. WORKS DEPARTMENT Hon. MCE presented projects in the Municipality initiated by the Assembly over the years. Below are the details; S/N NAME OF PROJECT LOCATION SOURCE OF FUNDING % OF WORK DONE 1 Construction of CHPS Compound New Kabenlasuazo DACF 70% 2 Construction of CHPS Compound Allowulley DACF 40% 3 Construction of 2No. Market Sheds Jaway Wharf DACF 70% 4 Construction of 3-Unit Classroom Block with Offices, Staff common Room, 3-Seater WC Toilet Facility Old Ankasa DACF 95% 5 Construction of 2-unit Classroom Block with Office, Staff Common Room, Kitchen, and Washroom Ekpu DACF 45% 7 Paving of 800m2 floor Area, 6Seater WC Toilet & Urinal facility,1No. Mechanized Borehole Drilling with Overhead
JOMORO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY CELEBRATES 67TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AT HALF ASSINI
The Jomoro Municipal Assembly joined the rest of Ghanaians to celebrate the 67th Independence Day Anniversary with a colorful parade at Half Assini Senior High School park under the theme ‘’OUR DEMOCRACY, OUR PRIDE’’ on Wednesday 6th March 2024. Attendance The Anniversary was dignified by the presence of Awulae Annor Adjei III, Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Area and special guest of honor for the anniversary, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde, MCE for Jomoro Municipal, Mrs. Joyce Akosua Angmorteh Miezah, Municipal Coordinating Director for Jomoro Municipal Assembly, Mrs. Edith Mary Hagan, Municipal Education Director, Hon. Emmanuel Nvojo, Presiding Member for Jomoro Municipal Assembly, Hon. Assembly Members, Heads of the Security Services, Headmasters of Annor Adjei SHS and Half Assini SHS, Religious Leaders, and Nananom. Participating Schools The participating schools included Nana Ayebie Amihere Primary & JHS, Half Assini Catholic Primary & JHS, Half Assini Methodist Primary & JHS, Ekpu Primary and JHS, Atwebanso/Edobo M/A Primary & JHS, Jaway Wharf Islamic Primary & JHS, Jaway Wharf M/A Primary & JHS, Christ the King Primary School, Peace International Primary & JHS, Nzemaman Primary & JHS, Christian Academy Primary & JHS, The Lord’s Kingdom Primary & JHS, Half Assini Catholic School Cadet, Jaway Wharf Islamic School Cadet, Peace International School Cadet, Nzemaman School Cadet, Half Assini SHS Cadet and Annor Adjei SHS Cadet. Address by the Special Guest of Honor In his address, the Special Guest of Honor, Awulae Annor Adjei III expressed gratitude to the gathering for gracing the occasion. He said he was happy to see the children radiant in their uniforms and costumes and was hopeful that soon they would assume the mantle of leadership in the country. He urged the gathering to constantly pray for them to excel in their academic pursuits. Address by the Municipal Chief Executive The Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde in her speech admonished the citizens to reflect on the journey that has brought us to this point. She said sixty-seven years ago, our forefathers fought tirelessly for our freedom and independence, and today we are a united sovereign nation, proud of our rich history, traditions, and culture. She commented on the theme for the Anniversary ‘’Our Democracy, Our Pride’’ and said ‘’in a world where the winds of misfortunes and uncertainty often blow, we are privileged to live in a nation where the voice of the people is not only heard but respected.’’ She said our democracy albeit not perfect stands as a shining beacon of freedom, equality, and justice. She urged the gathering to rededicate themselves to the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice and work together to build a society where every citizen can realize his/her full potential, where the rights of minorities are protected, and where the rule of law prevails. She chronicled some achievements of the government and said ‘’the NPP Government has worked very hard to improve the lives of Ghanaians, provided essential services, and created an enabling environment where businesses can thrive and prosper despite deepening global economic challenges. Hon. Louisa Iris Arde made a passionate appeal to all and sundry to conduct ourselves with civility and decorum devoid of acrimony, gerrymandering, and parochial partisan interest, especially during this year’s electioneering campaign. She reiterated that it is important that political parties and their activists campaign on transformative ideas and not insults and personal attacks so that the electorate can make an informed choice. ‘’We need to guard jealously the peace and security we are enjoying and not take things for granted. Bear in mind that elections will come and go but Ghana remains forever’’, she said. In conclusion, she admonished Ghanaians to raise the flag and sing the national anthem with pride and hope for the future. ‘’Let us remember that we are all Ghanaians, united in our diversity and committed to building a better Ghana for all’’ she said. Results of the March Pass At the end of the march pass, Christian Academy, Half Assini was adjudged the best in the 67th Independence Day Anniversary for the Primary Schools Category and Methodist Half Assini Methodist JHS won the JHS category. Presentation of Awards Awards were presented to students who excelled in the 2023 B.E.C.E and W.A.S.S.C.E examinations and outstanding businessmen and women. Blay-Morkeh Jeffery Erte of Peace International JHS, Half Assini was awarded the best B.E.C.E Candidate for the male category and Molsak Esther also of Peace International JHS was awarded the best B.E.C.E Candidate for the female category. Mr. Asamoah Maxwell of Half Assini Senior High School emerged as the overall best Candidate for the 2023 W.A.S.S.C.E and Ms. Ahosei Cindy was awarded as the overall best Candidate for the female category.
INAUGURATION AND INDUCTION CEREMONY OF ASSEMBLY MEMBERS OF THE JOMORO MUNICIPAL
Following the Local Government Act 2016 (Act 936), the Jomoro Municipal Assembly has confirmed the newly-elected Assembly Members for the Ninth Session of the Assembly. The ceremony took place at the concourse of the Assembly on Monday, 12th February 2024. Attendance In attendance were Hon. George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and MP for Tarkwa Nsuaem Constituency, Awulae Annor Adjei III, Paramount Chief of Western Nzema Traditional Area and Board Chairman of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation, Hon. Dorcas Affo Toffey, Member of Parliament for Jomoro Constituency, Hon. Louisa Iris Arde, Municipal Chief Executive for Jomoro Municipal, Mrs. Joyce Akosuah Angmorteh Miezah, Municipal Coordinating Director, Mr. Frederick Agyemang, Chief Director of the Western Regional Coordinating Council, Hon. Ernest Koffie, the immediate past Municipal Chief Executive of Jomoro Municipal, Hon. Martin Y. Ackah, former District Chief Executive for Jomoro District, Nananom, Heads of security services, Constituency Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and National Democratic Congress(NDC) and immediate past Hon. Assembly Members. Welcome address by the Municipal Chief Executive The Municipal Chief Executive Hon. Louisa Iris Arde welcomed the gathering and mentioned that the inaugural meeting marked the beginning of a new era, a new chapter in the history of the Municipality. She added that in unity the Municipal would forge ahead on a path of progress, where transparency, accountability, and dedication to public service would be the hallmarks of positive endeavors. She urged the newly elected Assembly Members to remember that their duties extend far beyond the confines of the Assembly because they have been entrusted with the sacred responsibility of building not just infrastructure, but also fostering an environment of inclusivity, empowerment, and the deepening of grassroots democracy hence their decisions and actions would shape the well-being of the communities for generations to come. She appealed to put divisive tendencies, acrimony, and partisanship behind and uphold the interest of Jomoro first before any other consideration. She was optimistic that during the tenure, Hon. Assembly members would transcend political differences and embrace a spirit of collaboration, and work towards a common vision of a prosperous Jomoro, where every individual can flourish and thrive. She urged them to constantly engage the people in their respective Electoral Areas to listen to their voices to enable them to understand their needs and aspirations. She said it is through such meaningful engagements that will unlock the potential of the Municipality and build a brighter future. She extended her deepest appreciation to the gathering for their presence and acknowledged their unwavering dedication towards the progress of the communities and was confident that in unity Jomoro Municipal Assembly would be a benchmark for exemplary local governance in the country. Address by the Member of Parliament The Member of Parliament for Jomoro Constituency, Hon. Dorcas Affo Toffey in delivering an address at the ceremony extended warmest felicitations to the newly elected Assembly Members on their elections to the high office of Assembly Member. She stated the functions of the Assembly as provided for under sections 12, 1, and 13 of the Local Governance Act,2016(ACT 936) which include the formulation and the execution of plans, programs, and strategies for the effective mobilization of resources for the overall development of the Municipality. She used the opportunity to outline some developmental projects and advocacies she had executed since she assumed office and emphasized her commitment to work closely with Assembly Members in the 9th session as an ex officio member. Inaugural address by Minister for Lands & Natural Resources Hon. George Mireku Duker, who represented the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo said he was pleased to join the nationwide inauguration of District Assemblies, following the successful conduct of the District Level Elections in December last year and congratulated all the Elected Assembly and Unit Committee Members for their success at the polls He said the occasion marked an important milestone towards deepening decentralization as stipulated in Article 35 Clause 6(d) of the 1992 Constitution. This Article enjoins the state to promote decentralization and popular participation in governance by affording all possible opportunities to the citizenry to participate in decision-making at all levels of government He said It is an honor and privilege to be elected or appointed to serve the residents of your localities. He entreated them to build good working relationships with colleague Assembly Members, the Hon. District Chief Executive, Member (s) of Parliament, Staff of the District Assembly, and the people they represent. He also admonished them to establish strong partnerships and collaborate with the local structures particularly, the town, zonal and area council, the unit committees, and traditional authorities as well as other identifiable groups to facilitate the work of the Municipal Assembly. He said it is through these partnerships and collaborations that the ideals of local governance are optimized for the benefit of the people. Noting the critical part District Assemblies play in the governance structure and processes he entreated Hon. Assembly Members to work closely with the MCE to advance the implementation of the Government’s Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies (2022-2025): Agenda for Jobs II: Creating Prosperity and Equal Opportunity for all. He appealed to them that in their deliberations, planning, and decision-making for development, they should ensure that they localize these national development priorities into their action plans and support the government to deliver on its programs and projects to the benefit of the people. Nomination and Election of Presiding Member The 9th Assembly followed up to execute the task in fulfillment of Article 244 Clause 1 of the 1992 constitution of the Republic of Ghana to set in motion the 9th Session of the Jomoro Municipal Assembly. Two Hon. Assembly Members, Hon. Augustine Yankey and Emmanuel Nvojo were nominated to contest for the Presiding Member post. At the end of the voting, Hon. Emmauel Nvojo was elected as the presiding member for the Jomoro Municipal Assembly and was sworn in by the District Magistrate. He had