Oti Regional Minister engages Buem Queen Mothers on development priorities

The Oti Regional Minister, Hon. John Kwadwo Gyapong, on Friday, May 23, 2025, hosted the Executives of the Buem State Queen Mothers, led by their Paramount Queen Mother and Chairperson, Nana Apewbea III, at the Oti Regional Coordinating Council.

The meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between traditional authorities and the regional administration to drive development in the area.

During the engagement, the Queen Mothers presented a range of pressing issues affecting their communities. Key among these were challenges in agriculture and farming, access to clean drinking water, youth unemployment, poultry farming development, and the need to preserve cultural heritage.

In response, Hon. Gyapong reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with traditional leaders, particularly Queen Mothers, as vital partners in community development. He assured them that the government, through various programs and support from the World Bank, would prioritize interventions that address these concerns.

The Minister also announced several development initiatives, including a major 7,200-hectare irrigation project expected to benefit the Biakoye and Krachi East districts. He further highlighted the government’s broader agenda to create 15,000 jobs for the youth and promote gender inclusivity through the Women’s Bank initiative, which is designed to empower women economically.

In addition, the Queen Mothers appealed for the organization of workshops focused on conflict resolution and peacebuilding, expressing a desire to enhance their capacity in these areas to better serve their communities. Hon. Gyapong welcomed the proposal and pledged his full support to ensure such training programs are implemented.

Also present at the meeting were several distinguished Queen Mothers, including Nana Okrebea II, Nana Buasumaa I, Nana Adzewaa II, Nana Boatemaa III, Nana Adjeibea Adjeibea, Nana Ochadebea II, Nana Gbadowea, Nana Bukawea II, Nana Okunubea, Okyemewaa Rose Danteh, and Mrs. Patience Smile Dane. Their collective presence underscored a strong commitment to advancing positive change and sustainable development across the Oti Region.

The gathering concluded with a shared vision to continue building partnerships between government institutions and traditional leadership, focusing on practical solutions to the challenges facing local communities.