New abirem: The Birim North District Assembly in the Eastern Region has launched its 2026-2029 Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) and presented the 2025 Mid-Year Review at a public hearing held in New Abirem. The event gathered stakeholders, including traditional leaders, Assembly Members, heads of departments and agencies, civil society representatives, media, and Persons with Disability, among others.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Antwi Hakeem Abdul, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Birim North, emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and transparency, highlighting the Assembly's commitment to fulfilling the National Development Planning Commission Act, 1994 (Act 480), L.I. 2232, and Section 88 of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936). He highlighted the significance of stakeholder engagement in both the dissemination of the MTDP and the review, stating that these exercises are legal obligations that promote good governance.
Mr. Abdul emphasized the role of collective ownership and collaboration in the district's development process, calling for constructive dialogue and active participation from all stakeholders. He expressed confidence that the discussions would lead to practical solutions to propel the district's development aspirations.
Ms. Sandra Audrey Arkon, Planning Officer at the Birim North District Assembly, noted that the dissemination of the MTDP and the review of the district's performance marked a critical step in aligning local initiatives with national priorities and ensuring accountability. Based on a needs assessment conducted in various communities, Ms. Arkon announced a series of development projects under the 2026 MTDP, aimed at boosting socio-economic infrastructure across communities in the district.
The projects target various sectors, including economic, health, education, and water. Plans include constructing community hostels for artisans in New Abirem, new market facilities in Praso Kuma, Nyafoman, and Amoa, and providing start-up kits for graduate youth in Akoase. Additionally, several healthcare infrastructure projects are planned, including the construction of CHPS compounds in nine communities.
In Okaikrom, a palm oil processing group is set to receive new facilities funded by the DACF-RFG, while education will benefit from the rehabilitation of a classroom block at Amuana Praso Presbyterian School. The New Abirem government Hospital will receive new facilities, funded through internally generated funds.
The forum, chaired by Obrempong Kwesi Amoh Kyeretwie I, Aberimhene and Kotoku Gyaasehene, highlighted the Assembly's efforts in promoting community development. The Integrated Social Development Centre (ISODEC) participated in the Forum, with Mr. Bernard Anaba expressing gratitude for the Assembly's collaboration with civil society and the incorporation of ISODEC's Participatory Rural Appraisal methods into the needs assessment process.