Assessing Development Commitments in the Savannah Region: A Response to Bawumia’s Promises
By: Hon Abu KK
Hon. Abu Kansangbata in the light of recent political discourse surrounding development commitments in the Savannah Region, mentions that it is imperative to provide a comprehensive assessment to inform the electorate effectively. As a former deputy minister of state Hon. Abu Kansangbata is deeply invested in the region’s progress, I aim to offer clarity and perspective on the matter. Contrary to misleading assertions, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant strides made under the leadership of H.E John Mahama. H.E former president John Mahama’s vision for the Savannah Region was comprehensive and inclusive, spanning crucial sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment.
Hon. Abu Kansangbata mentions that H.E former president John Mahama’s pledges encompassed the establishment of a regional hospital to enhance healthcare accessibility and quality, construction of district hospitals for Daboya and Salaga North to address specific community needs, and the commitment to establish a fully-fledged university to cater to the educational aspirations of the region’s youth.
Hon. Abu Kansangbata reminds the electorate that Mahama pledged to develop a road network connecting all districts, including alternative routes, to improve connectivity and facilitate socio-economic growth.
He demonstrated dedication to seeing projects through to fruition, including revamping the Buipe Shea nut Factory to stimulate job creation and support the agricultural sector, establishment of farmer service centers to provide vital support for agricultural development, and ensuring the women’s bank has branches in all seven districts to promote financial inclusion and women empowerment. Mahama also committed to rehabilitating key roads such as the Bamboi through Bole to Sawla route and the Fufulso-Damongo-Sawla road, focusing on critical sections for improved transportation infrastructure, and creating sustainable jobs for the youth, addressing unemployment challenges and fostering economic empowerment.
Moreover, he pledged to construct the Savannah Regional House of Chiefs office complex, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural heritage and facilitating traditional governance.
However, the former minister of state has shown serious concerns amidst these promises concerning Vice President Bawumia’s track record raises concerns. Despite promising the establishment of a satellite university campus in the Savannah Region, no progress has been made, casting doubt on the sincerity of his commitment.
Bawumia’s failure to deliver on promises such as the Water Melon factory in the North East Region, where development initiatives remain stagnant, and his assertion of lacking decision-making powers undermine his role in driving development initiatives, raising questions about his accountability and effectiveness. The unfulfilled pledge of one million dollars for the North East Region further underscores the gap between promises and actions.
Bawumia’s promises for the Savannah Region are perceived as mere attempts to secure votes, lacking substance and tangible results, especially in comparison to Mahama’s proven track record of progress and development. Hon. Abu Kansangbata wants to remind the electorate that as political contenders make promises, it is imperative to scrutinize their commitments critically, ensuring they are rooted in genuine dedication rather than electoral expediency. Voters must prioritize tangible results over rhetoric, fostering collaborative efforts devoid of partisan biases to uplift the region towards prosperity.
