The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has emphasized the importance of responsible and accurate media reporting to aid the development of the region.
Addressing the media in Sunyani for the first time since assuming office, Mr. Akwaboa assured journalists that his office remains open for “fact-checking and collaboration”.
“As much as I encourage free reportage of events in the region, stories must be well cross-checked. My doors are always open to assist in any way possible”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
The minister highlighted the media’s role in attracting investors. “Accurate reportage could boost investor confidence in the region,” he noted.
Mr. Akwaboa expressed confidence in his ability to drive growth, stating, “I am young, energetic, and well-connected to bring projects into this region. A strong media presence will support my vision.”
Outlining his agenda, Mr. Akwaboa pledged to enhance infrastructure, including roads, healthcare, education, employment, and agriculture.
He also announced plans for a legacy project that would have a lasting impact on the region by the end of his tenure.
Bono Region, known for its rich agricultural potential, has long been a hub for cashew and cocoa farming. However, inadequate road infrastructure and access to markets have hindered farmers from maximizing their profits.
The minister emphasized the need to modernize these sectors and provide support for small-scale farmers.
“We are looking at improving storage facilities, transportation, and access to international markets. Our cashew and cocoa industries can contribute significantly to Ghana’s economy if managed properly”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
In addition to agriculture, Mr. Akwaboa aims to enhance industrialization in the region, promoting agro-processing factories and value addition to agricultural produce.
Already existing initiatives are expected to play pivotal roles in this vision, encouraging local production and reducing reliance on imports.
To protect the environment, the minister vowed to take firm action against “illegal logging and mining”. He mentioned that guidelines would soon be implemented to ensure “forest conservation”.
“I will stop illegal mining in the Bono Region. I will also crack down on chainsaw operators who have illegally entered forest reserves. We must preserve our forests”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
Illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ has been a persistent problem in many parts of Ghana, causing environmental degradation and water pollution.
The Bono Region, despite its relatively lower incidence of galamsey compared to other regions, has not been spared. Mr. Akwaboa stressed the need for stringent measures, including community engagement and law enforcement, to curb these activities.
“We cannot allow a few individuals to destroy our natural resources at the expense of the greater population. There will be serious repercussions for anyone caught engaging in illegal mining”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
Addressing Stakeholder Concerns
Acknowledging tensions between “cattle herders and farmers”, Mr. Akwaboa announced plans to engage relevant stakeholders to prevent conflicts and safeguard food security.
“We are going to engage the leaders of cattle herders and farmers because we have received numerous complaints”, he stated, adding“If we don’t act now, this issue could escalate, affecting food production”.
Farmer-herder conflicts have been a longstanding challenge in Ghana, often resulting in violent clashes, destruction of crops, and loss of livestock.
The minister underscored the importance of a balanced approach that respects both the livelihoods of herders and the interests of farmers and promised that guidelines will be developed to help resolve disputes amicably.
“We need a sustainable model that allows both parties to coexist peacefully. We will look into designated grazing areas and conflict resolution mechanisms”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
The minister expressed the intention to work closely with traditional leaders and security agencies to ensure stability. “Development thrives in a peaceful environment. We will use dialogue and legal frameworks to resolve these disputes swiftly,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the importance of boosting food production to ensure long-term food security.
“A nation that cannot feed itself is at risk of economic instability. We will introduce measures to modernize agriculture, provide subsidies for farmers, and encourage the youth to take up farming as a viable career”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
Commitment to Peace and Economic Development
Mr. Akwaboa reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace, noting that while there were some chieftaincy disputes, the region remained largely stable.
“There is no major security threat in the region. However, chieftaincy disputes have caused disturbances, and we must work together to maintain peace”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
He urged the media to avoid sensationalism and unverified reporting, which could disrupt stability and hinder development. “What I need from the media is support to elevate the region’s development,” he said, adding “you have the freedom to report, but accuracy is key”.
On economic prospects, the minister highlighted the potential of the “poultry and cashew industries” to “generate jobs for the youth”. He also reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and illegal activities, calling on the media to support these efforts.
The Bono Region is home to one of Ghana’s most promising poultry industries, supplying eggs and meat to various parts of the country. However, the industry faces challenges such as high feed costs and limited access to finance.
Mr. Akwaboa revealed plans to provide incentives and subsidies to farmers to boost production.
“A robust poultry sector can provide thousands of jobs and reduce our dependence on imported chicken. We will do everything necessary to support our farmers”
Joseph Addae Akwaboa, Bono Regional Minister
The government’s Planting for Food and Jobs initiative will also receive renewed attention in the region, with Mr. Akwaboa promising to ensure its proper implementation.
“We must not only plant but also process and export,” he explained. According to Mr. Akwaboa, this will “create more employment opportunities” and generate revenue for the region.
Mr. Akwaboa’s call for responsible journalism and collective development signals a proactive governance approach in the Bono Region.
As his tenure progresses, his commitment to infrastructure improvements, environmental conservation, and economic growth will be closely monitored by residents and stakeholders alike.
READ MORE: Funke Akindele Reveals Qualities of Her Ideal Man
