The Metropolitan Chief Executive (MCE) of the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), Hon. Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo (Esq.), has cut the sod for the commencement of 21 new developmental projects at a short ceremony held at the Sekondi Model Basic School. The projects, which include two health centres, three water closet toilet facilities, three basic school blocks, and ten mechanized boreholes sited across the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis at a total cost of GH¢13,167,736.62, are expected to improve access to healthcare, sanitation, education, and potable water for residents.

Addressing the function, the MCE noted that the projects are funded through the Assembly’s share of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF). He emphasized that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader agenda to ensure effective decentralisation and equitable distribution of development across all sectors, aiming to raise living standards for residents. He added that the assemblies are being empowered by the government to take charge of their own development processes through diverse funding sources, including internally generated funds (IGF), donor support, and allocations from the central government.

He revealed that a significant number of the projects are located within the Essikado-Ketan Sub-Metro, which has emerged as one of the fastest-developing areas of the Assembly. This, he said, makes it imperative to provide adequate infrastructure and social amenities to meet the growing needs of residents.

Among the projects listed are the construction of a six-unit classroom block with ancillary facilities for Nana Kobina Gyan Primary School at Adiembra, and the construction of a two-unit classroom block with office, store, kitchen, and enclosed fencing at Sekondi Model Nursery and Primary School. Others are the construction of a Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound at Eshiem, the construction of 6-seater water closet toilets at Essikado, Mpintsin, and Ahanta Mampong, as well as the completion and rehabilitation of the Essikado-Ketan Sub-Metropolitan District Council Office.

The Metropolitan Works Engineer, Mr. Benjamin Aidoo, disclosed that the contractors have been given completion periods ranging between three and ten months, depending on the scope of each project.

Mr. Aidoo assured the public that the Assembly’s engineers and building inspectors would regularly monitor the contractors to ensure adherence to design specifications and quality standards. He expressed optimism that the contractors would demonstrate professionalism and commitment to deliver quality infrastructure that meets the expectations of the beneficiary communities.

“We expect contractors to work diligently and deliver projects that the communities can be proud of. These developments are for the people, and quality delivery remains our top priority,” he added.