Chief Blames Partisan Politics for Ekumfi’s Development Challenges

The Sumankwaahen of the Ekumfi Traditional Area, Nana Otwer Koko Nyeiku VII, has identified partisan politics as a major factor hindering the development of the Ekumfi Constituency.

He made the remarks during the 10th anniversary commemoration of the late Nana Enoo Mutaku II, Mankrado of Ekumfi Essarkyir, held on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

Addressing participants, Nana Otwer Koko Nyeiku VII expressed concern over what he described as the negative impact of frequent political changes on the constituency’s development trajectory.

According to him, the constant change of Members of Parliament after successive elections disrupts continuity and undermines long-term development planning. “The only way to negotiate effectively for development is to remain in office for a considerable period. This is not about any individual, but about the progress of Ekumfi as a whole,” he stated.

He explained that the frequent replacement of MPs often resets development efforts, making it difficult for projects and policies to mature and yield tangible results.

The Sumankwaahen therefore urged political actors and constituents to rally behind leadership that demonstrates competence and commitment to development. “If you fail to promote and protect your MP, you risk slowing down development. Continuity in leadership enhances the chances of securing greater opportunities, including ministerial appointments,” he noted.

While acknowledging Ghana’s democratic principles, Nana Otwer Koko Nyeiku VII called for a more intentional approach in electoral choices, stressing the need to prioritise competence and long-term vision over partisan considerations.

He further advocated broader stakeholder engagement in the planning and execution of long-term development projects, urging traditional authorities to play active roles as agents of positive change within their communities.

Touching on local economic initiatives, he cited the Gomoa Easter Carnival, organised by Hon. Kwame Asare Obeng (A-Plus),  Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, as a model worth emulating. He encouraged similar initiatives in Ekumfi to boost local economic activity and tourism.

He also acknowledged efforts by the Ekumfi MP, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, who organised a similar event dubbed “EkuFest” in December 2025, noting that such initiatives require stronger community support to succeed.

Responding, Hon. Dr. Kwainoe assured that plans are underway to restructure and strengthen the festival to maximise its impact, particularly in creating sustainable income-generating opportunities for the people.

Nana Otwer Koko Nyeiku VII concluded by paying tribute to the late Nana Enoo Mutaku II, describing him as a hardworking, humble, and community-driven leader whose legacy continues to inspire development-oriented leadership in Ekumfi.

By; Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie 

Gleeful Ekumfi Youths Pledge Unwavering Support for MP

Some youths of Ekumfi in the Central Region have expressed deep appreciation for the performance of the Member of Parliament for the Ekumfi Constituency, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, barely a year into his tenure, pledging their sustained support for his leadership and development agenda.

The show of support was made public on Sunday, February 1, 2026, when a seven-member delegation of Korean investors from Hwaseong arrived in Ekumfi for engagements on business and investment opportunities spanning healthcare, education, agribusiness, and other priority sectors.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Louis Biney, one of the youth leaders, noted that although Ekumfi once produced a President of the Republic between 2009 and 2012, the constituency could not fully benefit from the expected level of development due to the untimely demise of Prof. John Evans Atta Mills. He described it as refreshing that, within just one year in office, Hon. Dr. Kwainoe has begun to position Ekumfi on a visible development path.

According to him, the presence of foreign investors in the constituency is a clear testament to the MP’s proactive leadership. He stressed that the youth are determined to support Hon. Dr. Kwainoe for as long as he remains active in politics.

He further described the MP’s performance as extraordinary, citing his commitment to opening Ekumfi to investment and economic opportunities.

Another youth, Richardson Biney, popularly known as Olobo, added his voice, stating that if Hon. Dr. Ekow Kwainoe is unable to transform Ekumfi, then it would be difficult for any future leader to do so, given the level of effort and vision currently being demonstrated.

The Deputy Communications Officer of the NDC in the Ekumfi Constituency, Mr. Richard Bright Arthur, also expressed excitement over the MP’s performance, revealing that Hon. Dr. Kwainoe has hinted at bringing another group of investors from the United States of America within the year.

The Korean delegation, led by Mr. Young Tae Choi, expressed satisfaction with the warm reception and hospitality extended to them by the people of Ekumfi. He indicated the delegation’s readiness to invest, citing the preparedness and cooperation of the Omanhen, Odeefo Akyen VIII; the District Chief Executive, Hon. Ismaeel Nana Asamoah; and the MP, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, particularly in providing land and the needed support to ensure project success.

Revealing initial plans, Hon. Dr. Kwainoe disclosed that the investors intend to begin with salt mining and production, a move expected to create both direct and indirect employment opportunities for the people of Ekumfi and significantly boost the local economy.

The MP therefore appealed to all stakeholders to rally behind the collective vision for a better and more prosperous Ekumfi, emphasising that unity and support remain critical to sustaining development.

“Ekumfi Is Ready for Business” — Odeefo Akyen VIII Declares as Korean Investors Pay Courtesy Call

Ekumfi has taken a bold step onto the global investment stage as the Omanhene of the Ekumfi Traditional Area, Odeefo Akyen VIII, declared the district open and ready for investment following a royal courtesy call by a delegation of Korean investors.

The visit forms part of an investment mission to Ekumfi led by the Member of Parliament for Ekumfi, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, aimed at showcasing the district’s economic strengths and positioning it as a viable destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).

Welcoming the delegation at his palace, Odeefo Akyen VIII assured the investors of the full support of the Ekumfi Traditional Council, particularly in areas such as land access, community engagement, and peaceful coexistence. He emphasised that Ekumfi offers a stable and receptive environment for investors who are committed to responsible and sustainable development.

Ekumfi is open for investment. We are prepared to work with partners who respect our people and contribute meaningfully to our development,” the Omanhene stated.

The Korean investors are in Ghana at the invitation of Hon. Dr. Kwainoe and are undertaking a series of engagements and site visits designed to highlight Ekumfi’s development potential in line with Ghana’s broader industrialisation and value-addition agenda.

During their stay in the district, the delegation is touring key social and economic infrastructure, including health facilities, schools, farms, agribusiness sites, and the Ekumfi Fruits and Juices Company, to explore opportunities in agro-processing, healthcare delivery, education support, and related value-added sectors.

A key component of the visit is the anticipated signing of Sister Towns Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which are expected to promote long-term cooperation in areas such as trade, technology transfer, skills development, cultural exchange, and local economic growth.

The investors are also engaging local authorities, business leaders, and community stakeholders to explore potential joint ventures and collaborative investment models.

The visit is widely seen as a strong endorsement of Ekumfi’s investment prospects and Ghana’s stable, business-friendly environment, with expectations that it will pave the way for concrete investments that drive local development, job creation, and sustainable economic growth.

Key personalities in attendance are the District Chief Executive of the Ekumfi District Assembly, Hon. Ismaeel Nana Asamoah and his Presiding Member, Hon. Kow Kakra Nketsia-Richardson, Executive of the National Democratic Congress including Alhaji Joseph Antobam, Nurdeen Otoo, Gideon Acquah, Suraj Umar, Erskine Ntsiful and Richard Bright Arthur as well as party faithful.

Ekumfi to Host Korean Investors as MP Leads Investment Engagements

Ekumfi is set to welcome a delegation of Korean investors tomorrow, Sunday, February 1, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to attract investment and stimulate local economic growth within the constituency.

The investors have already arrived in Ghana and are expected in Ekumfi under the facilitation of the Member of Parliament for the area, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, who is leading engagements aimed at showcasing the district’s development potential.

Shyn Media Gh gathers that the delegation will pay a courtesy call on the traditional leadership of the Ekumfi Traditional Area, where discussions will focus on community-driven development, land access, and partnership frameworks necessary for sustainable investment.

The investors are also scheduled to tour key economic and social infrastructure, including selected farms, agro-processing sites, and the Ekumfi Fruits are Juices Company, to assess opportunities in agribusiness, value addition, manufacturing, healthcare, and education support.

The visit is expected to open conversations around long-term partnerships and investment collaborations that could contribute to job creation and economic transformation in Ekumfi. Stakeholders are optimistic that the engagement will further position the constituency as an emerging investment destination within the Central Region.

Shyn Media Gh will follow developments and bring updates as the engagements unfold.

District Director of Education Calls for Collective Support to Advance Education in Ekumfi

Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, Director of Education - Ekumfi District 

The District Director of Education for Ekumfi, Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, has called on all stakeholders including traditional leaders, parents, and community members to unite in supporting the advancement of education in the district.

Addressing participants at the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of new boarding facilities and other projects at John Evans Atta-Mills Senior High School, Ms. Ahlijah described the initiative as “a joy to all,” emphasising that such collaborative efforts reflect a strong shared vision for the district’s educational growth.

She noted that the new facilities would significantly ease the financial burden on parents who currently spend heavily on accommodation, transportation, and feeding for their children.

Ms. Kafui also appealed to GETFund to expedite the completion of the project to ensure that the school benefits from the improved infrastructure within the stipulated timeframe.

She seized the opportunity to extend an invitation to traditional authorities and community members to attend the school’s upcoming 10th Anniversary Celebration on 29th November 2025, promising a memorable occasion that will highlight the school’s progress and achievements.

In her closing remarks, she said, “Education is shining in Ekumfi,” attributing this to the collective commitment of stakeholders. She also cited the district’s outstanding performance at the 4th Regional Reading Festival in Cape Coast as proof of educational progress and urged everyone to continue supporting the cause both financially and morally.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie 

MP for Ekumfi Breaks Ground for Modern Boarding Facilities, Administration Block, and Others for JEA Mills SHS

In fulfillment of his campaign promise to honour the late former President of Ghana, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ekumfi, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, has on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, broken ground for the construction of two modern boarding facilities (for boys and girls) for the John Evans Atta Mills Senior High School (JEA Mills SHS) in the Ekumfi District of the Central Region. 

This project forms part of the MP’s broader vision to lobby for the transformation of the school into a befitting educational institution that truly reflects the legacy of Prof. Atta Mills. 

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Kwainoe noted that his motivation for undertaking this initiative stems from the late President’s humility, compassion, and lifelong commitment to education. “My desire is to see this school represent the man who saw education as the beacon of hope for all of us. I want JEA Mills SHS to produce citizens who will not just be spectators, but contributors to the building of our nation,” he stated. 

Dr. Kwainoe expressed gratitude to the chiefs of Ekumfi Sardo for providing land for the project, and to the chiefs of Ekumfi Otuam for their continuous support. He also commended the District Director of Education, Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, the Paramount Chief, Odeefo Akyen VIII, and his divisional chiefs for their instrumental roles in birthing the school and commencing the boarding project. 

The Headmaster of JEA Mills SHS, Mr. Francis Ato-Davis, conveyed appreciation to the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, the Vice President, H.E. Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, the Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, and the MP for Ekumfi for their collective efforts in realizing this milestone. “In breaking this ground, we are not just digging the earth; we are planting a seed for a brighter, more empowered generation. We are building more than walls; we are building character, community, and a legacy of excellence that will endure for generations,” he remarked. 

Chief of Ekumfi Otuam 

The Chief of Ekumfi Otuam, Nana Ewusi Kwansah XIV, appealed to government and relevant stakeholders to ensure the timely completion of the project, emphasizing that only a committed leadership like the NDC can advance the school’s development agenda. 

The District Director of Education, Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, described the project as a major relief for parents who have struggled with the cost of hostels, transportation, and feeding. She appealed to GETFund to expedite the construction process and invited dignitaries to attend the school’s 10th Anniversary Celebration on November 29, 2025. “Education is shining in Ekumfi,” she declared, calling for continued stakeholder support for the district’s educational progress. 

The Deputy Administrator of GETFund, Hon. Alhassan Sualihu Dandaawa, reaffirmed government’s commitment to the project, announcing a 12-month completion timeline. He outlined the full package to include:

• Boys’ and girls’ dormitories 
• Administration block 
• ICT laboratory and library 
• Headmaster’s residence 
• House masters’ and mistresses’ bungalows 
• Ultramodern dining hall complex 

Hon. Sualihu cautioned students against drug abuse, advising, “Do not disappoint your parents. If you are intelligent and resort to drugs, you will fail.” 

He also commended Dr. Kwainoe for his relentless lobbying efforts and pledged a Gh₵10,000 cash support and a school bus on behalf of the GETFund Administrator, Mr. Paul Adjei, to support the school’s further development. “JEA Mills SHS will be one of the best in the Central Region after this administration,” he added. 

Nana Amoasi VII, Ankobeahen - Ekumfi Traditional Council 

Nana Amoasi VII, the Ankobeahen of Ekumfi Traditional Council and Chairman for the occasion, lauded the project’s scale and encouraged students to study diligently to make the best use of the forthcoming facilities. 

The event brought together several dignitaries, including the wife of MP, Mrs. Eunice Nana Aba Egyirba Smart Kwainoe (PhD), District Coordinating Director, Mr. Benjamin Opoku Busia, the District Engineer, Project Consultants, Nananom, Education Directorate staff, and Constituency NDC Executives. 

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Differently-Abled Persons in Ekumfi Cautioned Against Selling Their Start-Up Kits

Beneficiary PWDs with their start-up kits

In a ceremony held to disburse items to beneficiaries of the Persons With Disability (PWD) Fund in the Ekumfi District, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Ismaeel Nana Asamoah, issued a strong warning to beneficiaries to refrain from selling the start-up items distributed to them, urging them instead to make full use of the support to better their livelihoods.

The event, which took place on Friday, 17th October 2025, at the Ekumfi District Assembly’s Conference Room, saw Hon. Asamoah express appreciation to the President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, and the Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, for fast-tracking the process to ensure the timely delivery of the items.

Hon. Ismaeel Nana Asamoah, DCE, Ekumfi District Assembly 

The DCE commended the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its consistent commitment to supporting marginalised groups whenever it is in government. He further lauded President Mahama for increasing monetary allocations to the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) as part of efforts to decentralise development and promote inclusive growth across the country.

Hon. Asamoah passionately appealed to beneficiaries to use the items to their utmost benefit and assured them that his office would undertake follow-up monitoring to ensure all items were being used for their intended purpose.

The items distributed included fufu pounding machines, chest freezers, and cash support ranging from GH¢1,000.00 to GH¢2,000.00.

Hon. Kow Kakra Nketsia-Richardson

The Presiding Member of the Ekumfi District Assembly, Hon. Kow Kakra Nketsia-Richardson, emphasised the importance of such interventions, noting that the support was aimed at helping PWDs establish or expand income-generating ventures to become self-reliant. He assured beneficiaries of transparency and fairness in future distributions as always done.

Mr. Benjamin Opoku Busia, Coordinating Director, Ekumfi District Assembly

The District Coordinating Director, Mr. Benjamin Opoku Busia, tasked the Social Welfare Department to compile a comprehensive album of all PWD beneficiaries to aid tracking, accountability, and effective planning for future interventions. He reiterated the government’s commitment to sustaining the fund and called on beneficiaries to use the support productively to ensure its continuity.

Mr. Charles Senyo Dotse

The Social Welfare Department, led by Mr. Charles Senyo Dotse and Mr. Roland Amandi, reinforced the DCE’s message, advising beneficiaries to safeguard the items and use the cash for meaningful ventures. 

Mr. Roland Amandi

Mr. Amandi revealed that the district has over 1,000 registered PWDs, making prudent use of the resources crucial to ensure equitable benefit for all. He further urged members to obtain their Ghana Cards, a requirement for claiming future support.

The Central Regional PRO and Ekumfi District Chairman for PWDs, Mr. Mohammed Issah Eshun, expressed gratitude to the President for the timely release of the funds. He commended the management committee for ensuring that the full amount allocated was received and distributed effectively. Mr. Eshun reiterated that “disability is not inability” and encouraged members to use the support responsibly to uplift their lives.

Beneficiaries, visibly elated, thanked the President, DCE, and MP for their swift intervention within less than a year of assuming office. They also appealed to colleagues who resort to street begging to desist from the act and instead join the district’s registered PWD group to benefit from the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) PWD allocation.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Ekumfi MP Rewards Over 350 2025 BECE Best Performed Candidates

An aerial view of items donated 

The Member of Parliament for Ekumfi Constituency, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, on Thursday, 9th October 2025, presented a range of educational items to over 350 students who have gained admission into various Senior High, Technical and Vocational Schools across the country.

The initiative, which forms part of his continuous commitment to promoting and rewarding academic excellence among young students in Ekumfi, was held at Essuehyia under the theme, “Empowering Tomorrow’s Champions.”

The event attracted key stakeholders, including Chiefs, Queens,  the District Director of Education and her officers, headteachers, teachers, parents, students, as well as members of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and wife of the MP, Mrs. Dr. Eunice Nana Aba Egyirba Smart Kwainoe.

Hon. Dr. Ekow Kwainoe 

Hon. Dr. Kwainoe encouraged the awardees to remain diligent and studious in their academic pursuits to reach greater heights. He assured his constituents of sustained support and an even more improved package in the future. The MP also acknowledged his predecessor, Hon. Abeiku Crentsil, for instituting such a laudable initiative, and pledged to continue building on it.

Dr. Kwainoe expressed optimism that these young beneficiaries would one day take up leadership roles across various fields to contribute to the growth of Ekumfi and Ghana as a whole.

He further advocated for the enactment of by-laws or local content regulations to be championed by traditional authorities. Dr. Ekow Kwainoe called on the Paramount Chief of the Ekumfi Traditional Area to spearhead this initiative, ensuring all communities within Ekumfi adopt and enforce such regulations for collective development and discipline.

Presentation to Michael Ninson 

In recognition of exceptional performance, the Best Overall Candidate received a cash prize of GH¢1,000.00, a mobile phone worth GH¢2,000.00, as well as a mattress, chop box, exercise books, and assorted provisions including gari, sugar, milk powder, Milo, and mackerel.

The Overall Best Performed School also received a cash prize of GH¢1,000.00.

Best Performed Candidate (Public School): Master Michael Ninson of Narkwa Methodist Basic School with aggregate 10.

Best Performed Candidate (Private School): Master Benedict Forson of Obama College with aggregate 8.

Sarafina Ackom receiving her award 

Best Performed Female Candidate: Miss Sarafina Ackom of Adoagyir D/A Basic School with aggregate 15.

Best Performed Physically Challenged Candidate: Adoagyir D/A Basic School.

Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, Director of Education 

The District Director of Education, Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, congratulated the awardees, teachers and headteachers for their efforts, while promising the Honourable MP of improved academic performance in the coming years.

She also expressed concern over the issue of teenage pregnancy, revealing that three cases had already been recorded since the start of the 2025/2026 academic year. She appealed to traditional authorities to enforce community discipline and apply stricter sanctions to curb the menace.

Nana Kwaa Esaa Okofo Yaa I 

Speaking on behalf of the Paramount Chief, Odeefo Akyen VIII, the Guantoahen of the Ekumfi Traditional Council, Nana Kwaa Esaa Okofo Yaa I, commended the MP for his efforts and urged him to remain equitable in his dealings. He also called on party executives and constituents to continue supporting Hon. Kwainoe to ensure his retention.

Nana Kwaa Esaa I further urged parents to be responsible and instil discipline in their wards, discouraging immoral behaviours that could lead to teenage pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections. He also cautioned the youth against engaging in fraudulent activities that could land them in prison.

In his final remarks, he appealed to the President of the Republic, His Excellency John Dramani Mahama, to actively involve chiefs and traditional rulers in efforts to curb illegal mining across the country.

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Ekumfi MP Tours BECE Centres

Ekumfi MP in a group photograph with Ekumfi GES officers 

The Member of Parliament for Ekumfi Constituency, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, has toured various Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) centres across Ekumfi to monitor proceedings and show support to candidates.

His visit formed part of efforts to offer oversight and encouragement to the 2025 BECE candidates. Addressing the students, Dr Kwainoe urged them to give their utmost best in order to excel in the exams and secure brighter futures.

Prior to the examination, the MP had distributed mathematical sets to all 1,539 candidates in the district to aid in their preparation. He also assured them of additional support packages, including mattresses, chop boxes, stationery, and other essentials for Senior High School, for those who perform exceptionally well. Further sponsorship initiatives were also promised.

Director Kafui addressing a section of BECE candidates 

The District Director of Education, Ms Kafui Mary Ahlijah, joined the MP on the tour and encouraged candidates to remain focused and committed to achieving academic excellence.

Other dignitaries who accompanied the MP included Alhaji Joseph Antobam, NDC Constituency Chairman, Hon. Edward Acquah Fayah, Constituency Secretary, Mr. Bright Arthur, Deputy Communications Officer, Mr. Kofi Bentsiefi Biney, Human Resource Manager, Mr. Samuel Baffoe Aikins, PRO, Mr Ishaque Ismael Abbew, School Improvement Support Officer (SISO), and Mr. Kweku Sarpong, Community Participatory Coordinator (CPC).

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Ekumfi MP Donates 1,000 Dual Desks to Ghana Education Service

 

In a symbolic presentation held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Ekumfi Essarkyir, Hon. Ismaeel Nana Asamoah, District Chief Executive for the Ekumfi District Assembly, on behalf on Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, Member of Parliament for Ekumfi, handed over 400 dual desks to the Ekumfi District Education Directorate. This marks the first consignment of a total 1,000 desks to be distributed to basic schools across the district.

Receiving the items, the District Director of Education, Ms. Kafui Mary Ahlijah, expressed her profound gratitude to the MP and his representatives for the timely intervention at such a critical time. She further appealed for continued support and stronger collaboration to uplift education standards in Ekumfi.

A distribution schedule for the desks has already been sanctioned to ensure swift delivery to beneficiary schools.

Hon. Nana Asamoah reaffirmed the MP’s unwavering commitment, as well as the Assembly’s, to improving education in the district.

As of 4:08PM GMT on Tuesday, the Shyn Media Gh team can confirm that an additional 200 dual desks had arrived and been offloaded, bring the current total to 600.

Key stakeholders present at the ceremony included Mr. Douglas Osei Yeboah, Coordinating Director, Hon. Kow Kakra Nketsia-Richardson, Presiding Member of the Ekumfi District Assembly, and officers from the District Education Directorate.

 

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Hon. Ekow Kwainoe, MP, Visits Ekumfi Fruits and Juices Company Limited

MP for Ekumfi visits Ekumfi Fruits & Juices Co. Ltd. 

As part of his commitment to fostering development and ensuring accountability, the Member of Parliament for Ekumfi Constituency, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, has paid a working visit to Ekumfi Fruits and Juices Company Limited. The visit on Monday, February 17, 2025 aimed to gain firsthand insights into the company’s operations, challenges, achievements and prospects for growth.

During the visit, Mr. Fred, a representative of the company, briefed the MP on their success including, exporting their products the U.S. through Walmart Online, being one of the producers of 100% organic fruit juices in Ghana, offering five distinct flavours; Pineapple Only, Pine-Tropic, Pine-Ginja, Tropic-Ginja, and Pine-Melon-Ginja and above all, cultivating their own fruits to sustain production.

Despite these achievement, several operational challenges hindering their full potential were highlighted. He stressed the urgent need for, large-scale farms to ensure year-round fruit production to meet demand, stable electricity supply as the machines require up to 90 minutes to warm up before running since frequent power outages disrupt operations, reliable water supply since the factory currently depends on private water suppliers, increasing production costs.

He explained that, these challenges limit their production capacity to 2,800 cartons per day on a single shift, whereas a double shift could yield up to 5,000 cartons. To bridge this gap, he called for capital investment and strategic support to expand operations.

Hon. Dr. Kwainoe reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the factory in overcoming these obstacles. He emphasised that fully operationalizing the facility would create more job opportunities for locals and significantly boost the district’s economy.

“This factory has the potential to transform the local economy and create sustainable jobs. I will do everything within my capacity to address these challenges to ensure its full opreationalisation,”  he assured. 

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie

Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe Pays Working Visit to Ekumfi District Assembly

Ekumfi MP, Hon. Dr. Ekow Kwainoe in a group photograph with staff of Ekumfi District Assembly 

As part of his familiarisation and working tour within the Ekumfi Constituency, the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe, has paid an official visit to the Ekumfi District Assembly. The visit on Monday, February 3, 2025, aimed to foster stronger collaboration between the MP’s office and the Assembly to promote development across the district.

Hon. Dr. Ekow Kwainoe

During a meeting with the management and entire staff, Hon. Dr. Kwainoe expressed worry about the performance of the district which found its way in the Public Accounts Committee hearing. He emphasised his commitment to a collaborative approach in addressing the challenges of the district. 

He underscored that his mandate comes from the people, and his success is tied directly to meeting their expectations. “I’m here because of my people, because they gave me authority and power to do their work. They expect nothing but the best from me, so if I fail, I will lose my seat. I come with a lot of fire because I must deliver on the promises I made during my campaigns,” he stated.

The Parliamentarian stressed the urgent need for change, highlighting that, repeating the same approaches would not yield different results. “For that change to happen, we must be ready to be agents of change,” he added, urging staff to enhance accountability, innovation, and a results-driven mindset.

Hon. Ekow Kwainoe requested an inventory of all uncompleted projects in the district as well as their action plan, emphasising the need to track progress and ensure accountability.

Mr. Osei Yeboah, Coordinating Director, Ekumfi District Assembly

Mr. Douglas Osei Yeboah, the District Coordinating Director, commended Dr. Kwainoe on his move to ensuring a collaborative progress for the district. He called for cooperation with the assembly to fight for the establishment of a Fire Service station to improve emergency response capabilities, Immigration Service post to enhance security within the district. Other key areas of focus included harnessing the district’s tourism potential for economic growth, boosting local commerce and supporting traders by constructing a market complex, streamlining legal matters, especially land-related issues and ensuring innovative revenue generation regime.

He requested the MP to present his schedule on the disbursement of his common fund so as to enable the assembly have a comprehensive budgetary allocation for the district.

Hon. Dr. Othniel Ekow Kwainoe called for unity and hardwork assuring staff of his open-door policy, encouraging them to share ideas and suggestions freely. “Don’t see yourself as too small because wisdom cometh from areas that we don’t even expect,” he said, stressing the importance of teamwork in achieving the district’s developmental goals.

A section of Ekumfi District Assembly Staff at the meeting

Assembly staff raised concerns about poverty, with only 3% of budget allocations reaching the district, significantly limiting development efforts. 

Sanitation was also identified as a major issue, largely attributed to behavioural factors. The MP urged the Assembly to intensify public education campaigns while enforcing sanitation regulations. 

Calls we made to establish a dedicated land desk to manage development-related land issues and prevent litigation. The suggestion also included earmarking lands for specific purposes to attract investors.

On revenue generation, Dr. Kwainoe encouraged the Assembly to adopt innovative strategies, leveraging data and best practices to boost internally generated funds. “I am very hands-on. I’ll be checking, looking, and asking questions because I believe that’s how progress is made,” he remarked.

Mr. Zibrim

Mr. Safianu Zibrim, the Budget Analyst, appealed to the MP to look beyond his Common Fund allocations and actively seek additional support from the Common Fund Secretariat to finance key projects in the district.

As the district awaits the nomination of a District Chief Executive, Dr. Kwainoe emphasised that, whoever is appointed must align with the collective vision for Ekumfi’s growth. “My minister has made it clear that, the DCE is coming to work for the government and with the MP. Therefore, it’s my duty to ensure that whoever becomes the DCE aligns with the vision we have for the whole of Ekumfi.”

Hon. Ekow Kwainoe concluded with a passionate appeal; “Help me so that we can all build Ekumfi and this District Assembly together. I’m sure that when things get better, it will benefit all of us.”

By: Yusuf Ibrahim Dadzie