In a recent address during the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) meeting held on September 9, 2025, the District Chief Executive of Wa East, Hon. Adamu Sayibu, presented a comprehensive report outlining key development interventions undertaken in the district over the past year. While the district generally enjoys a state of peace, Hon. Sayibu acknowledged recent disturbances in Yayounyiri that tragically resulted in two fatalities. The police and the District Security Committee (DISEC), with support from the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), are actively working to restore tranquillity.
Security Enhancements and Personnel Recruitment
The Hon. Minister was informed that the district has strengthened its security framework with the recruitment of 30 immigration officers, 11 fire officers, and 5 additional police officers, a positive step towards enhancing public safety and security in the district.
Education Infrastructure and Challenges
In the realm of education, Wa East boasts an extensive network of educational institutions, including 80 kindergartens, 85 primary schools, 64 junior high schools, and 2 senior high schools. Recent completion of two-storey buildings in Dupari led to suggestions for repurposing the facility into a health training institution. Nonetheless, a pressing challenge remains: classroom infrastructure is deteriorating, with many schools lacking adequate furniture for both students and teachers. Currently, 114 out of 129 primary and KG schools are part of the government’s School Feeding Program, and efforts are underway to include the remaining 15.
The government scholarship selection program yielded only four candidates from eight applicants, highlighting the need for greater academic support. The initiative by the Hon. Member of Parliament offering full scholarships for specialized courses is commendable.
Healthcare Initiatives
Healthcare remains a top priority, with ongoing developments including the construction of Community Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds across various locales. The Honourable Member of Parliament, Dr. Godfred Seidu Jasaw, has additionally supported the establishment of health facilities in Kulkpong and Tuasa, where the creation of a CHPS facility with accommodation for nurses and a mechanized water system is in progress. However, the lack of a district hospital or polyclinic is a significant shortcoming.
Agricultural Advancements and Challenges
The assembly is advancing its agricultural agenda with the registration of farmer-based organizations for the government’s Feed Ghana program, though difficulties such as armyworm invasions threaten crop yields. To date, 164 farmer-based groups have registered, with 15 of them registered as cooperative groups, reflecting proactive community engagement.
Water and Sanitation Improvements
In water and sanitation, the District Assembly is working tirelessly to improve conditions through the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) initiative, including the construction of household latrines and the provision of boreholes and hand pumps in collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). A plea has been made to the Ministry of Finance for import duty exemptions for a drilling rig essential for further water provision.
State of Road Infrastructure and Electrification
The road infrastructure in Wa East remains a significant concern as many roads are unpaved, leaving the district capital, Funsi, without tarred roads. The assembly has submitted priority lists of roads and un-electrified communities to relevant ministries for urgent attention.
Ongoing and Upcoming Projects
Under the Gulf of Guinea Ghana Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project, several contracts have been awarded, with numerous construction projects either completed or at various stages of progress. Upcoming projects aligned with the reset agenda of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama signal a renewed commitment to development, including the construction of classroom blocks, boreholes, and a 24-hour economy market, among others.
Addressing Debt Challenges
Hon. Adamu Sayibu raised concerns regarding the assembly’s significant debt, inherited from prior administrations, affecting the payment of casual workers and other operational costs. Despite these challenges, he remains committed to reversing the trend and improving the assembly’s financial health.
Conclusion: A Call for Collaboration
In conclusion, the DCE emphasized that while strides have been made, much work remains to address the diverse needs of the Wa East District. He called for effective collaboration among various stakeholders to realize the benefits of the government’s reset agenda for the betterment of the community.
The report serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing journey towards development and progress in Wa East, highlighting both achievements and challenges that require the attention of all stakeholders involved in the region’s future.
Simon T. Faayi, Head of Public Relations,
Upper West Regional Coordinating Council
