Ga Community Decries 22 Years of Neglect; Chief Criticises Wa West Assembly

Chief of Bakpong (Gadi) in the Ga Traditional Council, Naa Mark Adams Banda

The Chief of Bakpong (Gadi) in the Ga Traditional Council, Naa Mark Adams Banda, has criticised the Wa West District Assembly over what he describes as more than two decades of neglect of the Ga community.

According to the chief, the community has not benefited from any significant development project since the creation of the district in 2004.

He made these comments during the handing over of a new nurses quarters financed by the community and supported by the Member of Parliament, Peter Lanchene Toobu to the Ga Health Centre.

He said the absence of infrastructure over the years raises concerns about whether the area is fully recognised within the district’s development framework.

Naa Banda expressed frustration over the performance of successive District Chief Executives, stating that none had taken concrete steps to address the development needs of the community. He noted that the continued lack of projects undermines residents’ sense of belonging and confidence in local governance.

He further pointed out that the Ga Area Council is among the highest contributors of revenue to the Assembly, yet its development outcomes remain minimal. He described the state of facilities in the area as poor and not reflective of its financial contributions.

The chief also revealed that attempts to secure support for a community-initiated nurses’ quarters’ project were unsuccessful. A request made to a former District Chief Executive, Vida Diorotey, was declined due to limited funds, and no assistance was provided before she left office.

Describing the situation as unacceptable, Naa Banda acknowledged that assemblies may face resource constraints but insisted that a prolonged absence of development cannot be justified. He has therefore called on the current leadership of the Wa West District Assembly to take urgent steps to address the concerns and ensure equitable development.

Despite his criticism, the chief commended the Member of Parliament for Wa West, Peter Lanchene Toobu, for his support towards development in the community. He cited the MP’s contribution of approximately GH¢40,000 towards the construction of nurses’ accommodation as a significant intervention.

Naa Banda noted that the gesture represents a shift from previous years, adding that past Members of Parliament—both when the area was part of Wa Central and under Wa West—did not extend similar support.

He said such commitment, if demonstrated earlier, could have significantly improved the development status of the Ga community.