Residents of Nsoatre in the Bono Region have expressed concern over what they describe as decades of underdevelopment, which they attribute to the protracted chieftaincy dispute in the area.
According to some residents who spoke to the media, the prolonged misunderstanding among traditional leaders has hindered the community’s growth and deprived residents of essential social amenities.
They explained that chiefs, who are expected to champion development initiatives, have been unable to work together because of the dispute, resulting in the neglect of critical infrastructure projects.
The residents cited the lack of healthcare facilities, poor road networks, inadequate access to potable water and the absence of employment opportunities as some of the major challenges confronting the community.
They further revealed that the situation has had a negative impact on the youth, many of whom have reportedly become involved in social vices, including drug abuse, alcoholism and theft.
The residents appealed to the government, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to intervene and support efforts aimed at restoring peace and accelerating development in the area. They also called on traditional leaders to put aside their differences for the benefit of the community.
The residents expressed disappointment over what they described as years of neglect by successive governments, claiming that Nsoatre’s reputation as a litigation-prone community has discouraged investment and development projects.
“We have vast tracts of land that could be used to promote development, but many government officials avoid the community because of the perception that we are always involved in litigation. One example is the large parcel of land earmarked for the construction of a university, which has remained unused because of the situation,” one resident stated.
Speaking on behalf of the paramount chief of Nsoatre, the Dabehene, Nana Hinneh Barnabas, acknowledged the concerns raised by the residents and assured them that plans were underway to address the community’s developmental challenges.
He said traditional authorities were committed to promoting peace and driving the development agenda now that the long-standing dispute had been resolved.
“The residents have every reason to be concerned about the lack of development. However, we want to assure them that there is hope because the litigation issues have now been resolved. Our paramount chief is ready to lead the process of bringing progress and prosperity to the community,” Nana Barnabas said.
He urged residents to remain patient and united as efforts continue to improve living conditions and attract investments to the area.
Ghana| Atinkaonline.com| Sofoba Kwame Afrifah