Akrofuom MP commissions electrification project for 9 communities

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akrofuom constituency, Honorable Alexander Blankson, has commissioned an electrification project for nine communities in his constituency under the Self-Help Electrification Programme (SHEP-5) Rural Electrification Project.

This initiative fulfills a campaign promise made to the people ahead of the 2020 general elections. Hon. Blankson noted that, prior to the election, he was able to connect between seven and eight communities to the national grid, bringing smiles to the residents of the beneficiary communities.

The communities benefiting from this project include Grumesa, Benkumhene, Kofigyame, Asiedukrom, Car Owner, Akwaako, Agya Atta, Botwekrom, and Dunkwafuom.

During the commissioning ceremony, the MP acknowledged the challenges faced in extending electricity to these communities, but emphasized his persistence in making it a reality. "It took me four years to get this done. It wasn't easy, but I had to lobby as Vice Chair of Mines and Energy to get this project to the nine beneficiary communities," he stated.

Hon. Blankson expressed gratitude to Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who is also the NPP flagbearer, for his support. He assured the community that other challenges, particularly the poor road conditions, would be addressed.

Regarding road improvements, he mentioned that the constituency is relying on the recently launched District Road Improvement Program (DRIP) to tackle bad roads. Efforts are being made to transport the necessary equipment to the constituency.

Looking ahead to the December 2024 elections, Hon. Blankson, who will be contesting again, is confident of securing 70% of the popular vote. He will face his main rival, Hon. David Azumah of the National Democratic Congress.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive of Akrofuom District Assembly, Dr. Maurice Jonas Woode, highlighted the progress made since the district's creation in 2018. He mentioned that initially, only 10 communities had access to electricity, but now 42 communities have been connected, with just 10 remaining without power.

Dr. Woode also acknowledged ongoing efforts to address the district's poor road network and resolve telecommunication issues in some communities.

Nana Baffour Akoto, the Odikro of Grumesa, one of the beneficiary communities, expressed excitement over the electrification project and commended the MP and DCE for their effective collaboration in developing the district. He also urged them to address other pressing needs, particularly the improvement of the area's road network.