The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has emphasized the importance of protecting and managing the region’s lands sustainably.
Speaking at the General Meeting of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs in Koforidua, she highlighted the critical role paramount chiefs play as custodians of the land.
The minister noted that the region’s lands are facing immense pressure from various demands, including the extraction of mineral resources, agriculture, infrastructure development, and housing.
She expressed concern about the rampant degradation and destruction of lands, often without adherence to regulations governing land use.
Mrs. Awatey specifically highlighted the menace of illegal mining (galamsey), which has plagued the region. She appealed to the chiefs to join forces with the Regional Co-ordinating Council to combat this menace and promote sustainable land use practices.
The minister emphasized that achieving the region’s vision of peace, progress, and development requires collaboration between the council and the chiefs.
She solicited their support in addressing land-related challenges and promoting transparent land administration, community engagement, and sustainable land use.
Mrs. Awatey urged the chiefs to work together to safeguard the region’s lands and future. She reiterated her commitment to an open-door policy, welcoming their views and suggestions on how to move the region forward.
By working together, she said, ‘the region can ensure that its lands remain a source of pride, prosperity, and progress for generations to come.’
The President of the Regional House of Chiefs, Nene Sakite, explained that the meeting aimed to take stock of the House’s activities and plan for the future.
Nene Sakite, who is also the Konor of the Manya Krobo Traditional Area, noted that chiefs, as allodial custodians of the land, play a critical role in decision-making processes related to land use.
He called on the government to work closely with traditional authorities in addressing land-related challenges, particularly land degradation.
The Konor praised the Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, for her frequent collaboration with traditional authorities in the region.
He commended her for fostering healthy discussions towards development and encouraged continued partnership between government and traditional leaders.
Nene Sakite emphasized that the region can better address land-related issues and promote sustainable development when government and traditional leaders work together.
He called for greater recognition of the role of traditional authorities in land administration and decision-making processes.
