In a momentous event at the Community Centre in Damongo, on the 12th of February 2024, the West Gonja Municipal Assembly has ushered in its Ninth General Assembly, setting the stage for renewed efforts towards achieving sustainable development objectives.
Hon. Karimu Musah Kusubari, the Municipal Chief Executive, delivered a stirring welcome address, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity in addressing the municipality’s pressing challenges while aligning them with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Highlighting the non-partisan nature of the General Assembly, Hon. Kusubari underscored the significance of unity and maturity in addressing issues of concern to the municipality. He urged members to prioritize the community’s welfare over personal or political interests, echoing SDG 16’s call for peace, justice, and strong institutions.
Identifying key challenges faced by the municipality, including peace and security, insufficient funds, unauthorized construction, substance abuse, encroachment, and waste disposal, Hon. Kusubari emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address these issues. Many of these challenges intersect with multiple SDGs.
Addressing the Damongo Chieftaincy dispute is crucial for fostering stability and security within the community, aligned with SDG 16’s aim of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, tackling issues like unauthorized construction and trading on pedestrian walkways is essential for creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities, as outlined in SDG 11.
He further added that combating the increasing rate of substance abuse among youth contributes to promoting health and well-being (SDG 3) within the municipality.
Addressing indiscriminate waste disposal aligns with SDG 13’s goal of taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Hon. Kusubarl called upon members to elect a Presiding Member and urged collaboration among both returning and newly elected members to effectively serve the community. This call for partnership and cooperation resonates with SDG 17’s emphasis on fostering partnerships to achieve the SDGs.
The assembly comprises elected members representing various electoral areas within the municipality, including Apilso, DASS, Hangaline/Ngbarip3/Alhassankura, Yipala/Nabori, Canteen, Attributo/Abingakura, Zongo/Langbonto, Sori, Laribanga, Busunu, Achubunyor, and Mole.
Additionally, government appointees who are made up of Hon. Adamu Jamana, Hon. Chief S Kwaja, Hon. Azara Natomah, Hon. Iddrisu Lamin, and Hon. Yakubu Ali are expected to contribute their expertise to municipal governance and development initiatives.
The 8th Assembly Presiding Member Hon Mumuni Mohammed was re-elected as the 9th Assembly Presiding Member for the West Gonja Municipality.
As the West Gonja Municipal Assembly embarks on its journey with the Ninth General Assembly, guided by principles of unity, collaboration, and service, it aligns its efforts with the broader agenda of sustainable development. By addressing key challenges and prioritizing community welfare, the assembly aims to contribute significantly to the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the overall well-being of the municipality.
Source padfm.com.gh/Edwin Gogu/0555588660
