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Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi Kicks Off Green Ghana Day with Tree Planting Ceremony

Flashback; HON SOLOMON KOTEY NIKOI, MCE FOR LaDMA, PLANTING THE FIRST COCONUT SAPLING TO MARK THE GREEN GHANA DAY
HON. RITA ODOLEY SOWAH, MP FOR LA PLANTING THE FOURTH COCONUT SPROUT TO MARK THE GREEN GHANA DAY

The Municipal Chief Executive of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA), Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, has urged citizens to protect the environment by planting trees and refraining from dumping and burning refuse in unauthorized areas. He highlighted the detrimental impact of these practices on the climate and public health.

Hon. Kotey Nikoi conveyed this message while planting the first coconut sapling at La Beach in the Greater Accra Region to inaugurate Green Ghana Day. Joining him in this environmental initiative were Coordinating Director Mr. Daniel Nkrumah, Municipal Works Director Mr. Richard Ben Debrah, Hon. Rita Odoley Sowah, MP for La, and several LaDMA department heads, who also planted seedlings to mark the occasion.

Mr. Nkrumah encouraged all stakeholders to actively participate in the tree-planting exercise and take full responsibility for nurturing the seedlings. He emphasized that the country’s future depends on how well its citizens protect and care for these young trees.

 

Local Community Educated on Fire Safety Measures

GNFS OFFICER DEMONSTRATING FIREFIGHTING TECHNIQUE

The La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Office of NADMO, in collaboration with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), conducted a fire safety sensitization program for drivers, traders, and food vendors at the 37 Lorry Station. This initiative aimed to address the persistent fire outbreaks in the municipality.

Mr. Richard Nimpark, a Safety Officer from the Ghana National Fire Service at the Ghana International Trade Fair, addressed the participants. He highlighted that illegal electrical connections, counterfeit electrical gadgets, outdated gas regulators, overfilled gas cylinders, and vehicle fuel tanks are major causes of fire outbreaks. He urged everyone to be vigilant about these fire hazards.

MR. REICHARD NIMPARK, SENSITISING THE PARTICIPANTS ON FIRE SAFETY
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE 37 DRIVERS UNION, MR YAW BOATENG, FIGHTING THE FIRE

Mr. Ebenezer Asare, Chief Assistant Control Officer of NADMO’s Regional Operation Division, advised participants to stay indoors during heavy rains. He mentioned that driving on flooded roads has led to many fatalities and cautioned drivers to avoid such actions. He also advised participants to switch off their mobile phones, televisions, and other electrical gadgets and avoid bathing during storms due to the high risk of electrical hazards. He urged residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate during heavy rains to ensure their safety.

Participants were taught firefighting techniques and advised to use the correct equipment at home, workplaces, and in vehicles. They were encouraged to contact the GNFS and NADMO promptly during any fire emergencies to help save lives and property.

LaDMA is Committed to Implementing All Approved Programs and Projects

Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Chief Executive, has announced that the assembly will organize a 5-day town hall meeting on Public Financial Management. He made this announcement during a meeting with stakeholders, emphasizing the theme ‘Accounting to the people; our responsibility in ensuring a flood-free municipality,’ which reflects LaDMA’s commitment to preventing flood-related losses. He made the call at the Church of Pentecost Trader Fair Assembly, La.

The town hall meeting will be held in all 10 electoral areas across five venues, with the first ceremony marking the start. This approach aims to increase citizen participation, according to the MCE.

During his address, Hon. Kotey Nikoi gave special recognition to the Honourable Assembly Members, particularly highlighting Hon. Helena Fofo Armah, the only elected female assembly member. He also noted the return of 90 percent of assembly members, indicating their strong ties with their electorate.

The MCE mentioned that the assembly has been working closely with traditional rulers, development partners, and Civil Society Organisations to push the development agenda forward. This cooperation has led to several development projects being implemented.

He said the assembly’s major sources of funds include Central Government Transfers, the District Assemblies Common Funds, Donor Grants, and Internally Generated Funds (IGF). He said despite falling short of IGF targets, revenue increased compared to the previous years, he noted. According to the MCE, the assembly successfully implemented 99 out of 102 activities in the 2023 Annual Action Plan, demonstrating effective planning and execution. He said several infrastructure projects, including drain construction and road resealing, have been completed or are ongoing in collaboration with the government of Ghana (GoG).

Hon. Kotey Nikoi also mentioned a street naming exercise planned to improve local revenue and enhance security, with consultations and sensitization ongoing in various communities. He acknowledged the challenges facing the district, including poor sanitation management, youth delinquency, flooding, poor adherence to settlement planning, unlawful activities on streets, boundary disputes, and limited land for physical development. Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi expressed the assembly’s determination to implement all approved programs and projects for the betterment of the people of La Dade-Kotopon Municipality. He thanked stakeholders for their support and the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development for technical assistance.

LaDMA Integral to Development Agenda: A Key Focus for Progress

The La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly held its first ordinary meeting of the first session of the fourth La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly on March 25 and 26, 2024. The meeting took place in La.

During the meeting, the Municipal Chief Executive for La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Hon. Rev. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, presented his sessional address for discussion and approval.

Various sub-committees were formed, and their chairpersons were elected after the MCE addressed the House. One of the topics discussed was the payment of ex-gratia to the past honorable Assembly members. It was agreed that the approved budget should be paid to the honorable members.

Overall, it was a productive meeting, and the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly is looking forward to continuing its work for the betterment of the community.

Commencement of Renovation for Classroom Block and Construction of Library and Canteen at Manle Dada School

Given that one of the core concerns of the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly is to provide socio-economic development for the people within the Municipality, through effective mobilization and development of fiscal, human, material, and natural resources with stakeholders’ participation, a transformative vision emerged one March morning in 2024. The La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, alongside PHILBRO Properties, unveiled plans to breathe new life into the aging school. With the promise of a renovated classroom block and the addition of a modern library and canteen, hope blossomed anew.

As the clock struck 11 am, anticipation filled the air. Dignitaries, community members, and eager students gathered for the ground-breaking ceremony. The Chief Imam’s prayer set the tone for the day—a harmonious blend of tradition and progress.

Madam Habiba Kotomah, Municipal Director of Education, expressed gratitude to those driving the initiative. The Municipal Works Engineer recounted the journey, highlighting the power of collaboration and resilience.

The assembly member shared the community’s dreams, thanking Mr. Brobbey for his commitment. The CEO of PHILBRO Properties pledged swift completion, fueled by his passion for education.

Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, M.C.E of LaDMA, closed with a call to action, igniting a sense of purpose among attendees. With shovels in hand, they broke ground, ushering in a new era for Maale Dada School.

Amidst cheers and tears, hope took root, promising a brighter future for generations to come. As the sun set, casting its warm glow, Maale Dada School embraced a new dawn—a dawn of promise, possibility, and boundless potential.

Celebrating Ghanaian Heritage: The Success of GOBE Festival@2024

In a vibrant collaboration between Media General Limited and the La Dadekotpon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA), the GOBE Festival@2024 unfolded as a celebration of Ghanaian culture and cuisine. On the 16th of March 2024, the Tetteh Quashie Interchange, adjacent to the bustling Accra Shopping Mall, served as the picturesque backdrop for this one-day extravaganza.
Media General Limited, renowned for operating Ghana’s leading TV3 station, along with other prominent media outlets such as 3FM and 3news.com, joined hands with LaDMA’s Culture and Tourism Department to orchestrate this memorable event. The festival aimed to spotlight and promote the beloved indigenous dish known as GOBE—a delightful combination of beans, gari, palm oil, and plantains, originating from the Volta Region.

Historical Significance and Educational Endeavors. The GOBE Festival tapped into the rich tapestry of Ghana’s culinary heritage, often intertwined with traditional farming practices and seasonal rhythms. Such festivals not only pay homage to local food cultures but also serve as vital conduits for preserving and revitalizing cultural traditions. Traditionally associated with significant food harvesting periods, modern-day food festivals like GOBE have evolved into dynamic platforms for both cultural commemoration and economic stimulation.
Beyond their cultural significance, food festivals like GOBE play a pivotal role in community engagement and education. By showcasing indigenous dishes and culinary techniques, these events foster a deeper appreciation for local cuisines while also providing opportunities for culinary education and exploration.
In Conclusion: A Flavorful Affair:The GOBE Festival@2024 proved to be a resounding success, drawing together a diverse array of attendees, from families to food enthusiasts, all eager to partake in the festivities. Participants were treated to an array of tantalizing GOBE creations, courtesy of both established eateries and up-and-coming culinary ventures in Accra.

Beyond its gastronomic delights, the festival served as a testament to Media General Limited’s commitment to promoting Ghanaian cultural heritage. By spearheading initiatives like the GOBE Festival, Media General not only celebrates the unique flavors of Ghana but also contributes to the broader cultural and tourism landscape of the nation.
As the echoes of laughter and the aromas of sumptuous dishes lingered in the air, the GOBE Festival@2024 left an indelible mark on all who attended, underscoring the profound connections between food, culture, and community in Ghana.

LaDMA HONORS 2022 AND 2023 BEST BECE AND WASSCE CANDIDATES

As part of the activities to mark Ghana’s 67th Independence Day anniversary, two students from Garrison JHS, Burma Camp, who received presidential awards in 2022 and were adjudged the best students in the Greater Accra Region, and one student from Services Primary and JHS (Burma Camp) who received the presidential award in 2023, were honored. The overall best 2023 WASSCE candidate in Ghana and the second-best in West Africa, a product of Labone Senior High School, was also honored by the assembly.

Presenting the awards to the students, the MCE for La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Honourable Solomon Kotey Nikoi, assured that the assembly would continue to provide the necessary infrastructure facilities and teaching and learning materials to support schools in the municipality, enhancing effective teaching and learning to produce more promising students. Hon. Solomon Kotey Nikoi urged parents to invest more in their children’s education for a better future. He lamented the neglect of children by some parents, leading to issues such as crime, streetism, drugs, and other negative impacts on society. He called for stakeholder consultations to address these issues.

Enhancing Development Control and Infrastructure: A Comprehensive Review of Municipal Efforts

Introduction:
Development control plays a crucial role in shaping urban landscapes and ensuring sustainable growth within municipalities. In this article, we provide an insightful overview of recent development control activities and infrastructure initiatives undertaken by the La Municipality, highlighting the commitment to fostering orderly development and improving public services.

Development Control Activities:
Over the review period, the La Municipality diligently conducted development control activities to enforce regulatory standards and address unauthorized construction. Notably, thirty-eight developers received warning letters for non-compliance, while eleven were brought before the La Magistrate court for building without permits. This proactive approach underscores the municipality’s dedication to upholding building regulations and safeguarding community interests, particularly in areas like East La.

Furthermore, in response to encroachments along Laboma Beach, the municipality, in collaboration with High Court officials, issued injunction notices to halt ongoing developments. Despite warnings and legal mandates outlined in the Local Governance Act 2016 and Building Regulations 2022, some developers persisted in their activities, necessitating decisive action to preserve public spaces and uphold regulatory frameworks.

In addition, a coordinated operation involving the National Security and Ghana Police Service successfully addressed issues of street vending and unauthorized activities within the Airport enclave. This joint effort has resulted in improved urban aesthetics and enhanced pedestrian mobility, contributing to a safer and more welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Infrastructure Initiatives:
In parallel with development control activities, the La Municipality has embarked on various infrastructure projects to meet the growing needs of its populace. Notably, the rebranding of the LaDMA directional sign into a three-dimensional (3D) structure signifies a commitment to modernizing urban signage and enhancing wayfinding for residents and visitors.

Moreover, ongoing development projects within the municipality, including educational and administrative facilities, demonstrate a concerted effort to improve service delivery and community infrastructure. Of particular significance is the construction of the La General Hospital, a 164-bed healthcare facility funded by the Government of Ghana and overseen by Messrs Polychanga Overseas Engineering Company Limited. A recent site meeting involving key stakeholders underscored progress on this vital project, reflecting collaborative efforts to enhance healthcare access and delivery within the municipality.

 

NO.

 

NAME OF PROJECT

 

LOCATION

LEVEL OF IMPLEMENTATION

 

%

 

1

Const. of 3-storey 18-unit Classroom block with ancillary facilities

La Wireless Cluster of Schools

 

Gable level

 

73%

 

2

Const. of 3-unit classroom block with ancillary facilities

 

La Salem JHS

Completed and commissioned in October

In use

 

3

Rehab. of 3-unit classroom block with office and staff common room

South La Estate JHS

Completed and commissioned in October

In use

 

4

 

Const. of Staff Canteen

 

LaDMA Office

Completed

6-tables 12-benches supplied

 

100%

 

5

 

Const. of stores/cold room/data office

 

LaDMA Office

 

Finishing

 

98%

 

6

Rehab. of 2-storey 3-unit classroom block

La St. Mauris A&B JHS

Painting works commences

Fence wall plastered

 

80%

 

7

Rehab. of African Unity Primary School

Maale Dada

Roofing members in position

 

38%

 

8

Rehab. of Junior High School with Library

 

Maale Dada

Substructure works for the library

Structural works ongoing for the main building

 

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the La Municipality’s proactive approach to development control and infrastructure development reflects a commitment to sustainable urban management and community welfare. By enforcing regulatory standards, addressing unauthorized construction, and investing in critical infrastructure projects, the municipality aims to create a conducive environment for economic growth and social well-being. Moving forward, continued collaboration between government agencies, stakeholders, and the community will be essential to realizing the municipality’s vision for inclusive and resilient urban development.

LaDMA TO LAUNCH MUNICIPAL TEACHER PRIZE

The La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Director for Education, Madam Habiba Kotomah, has specified that plans are underway to institute an award for dedicated and gallant teachers in the municipality in the coming year. She said this would encourage the teaching staff in the municipality to show commitment to their field.

She emphasized that education has played a pivotal role in the development and progress of the country. According to Madam Habiba, education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also the foundation stone of empowerment, equality, and opportunities to unlock the potential of the youth and equip them with the needed skills and know-how. She made this call during the Municipal Ghana’s 67th Independence Anniversary Celebration held at the Ghana International Trade Fair Centre, La.
Madam Habiba Kotomah urged Ghanaians to harness the power of education to build a more comprehensive, prosperous, and sustainable Ghana, where every citizen can fulfill their potential and contribute significantly to the nation’s progress. She admonished Ghanaians to always reflect upon the sacrifices made by the forefathers to defend and protect the freedom the country enjoys. She emphasized that being the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence marks a significant moment in the history of the country that must be protected.

CORRUPTION AND INJUSTICE: THREATS TO NATION BUILDING

The Municipal Chief Executive for La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly, LaDMA, Honourable Solomon Nikoi Kotey, has stated that corruption and injustice are the enemies that hinder the development of the nation. He urged the citizenry to help build a more inclusive, equitable, and just society to combat these threats.

He made the call during the Municipal celebration of Ghana’s 67th Independence Day Anniversary held at the forecourt of the Ghana International Trade Fair Centre, La. The MCE emphasized that commitment and dedication to the ideals of Ghana’s democracy and its values define Ghanaians. He called on all Ghanaians to unite in building a better Ghana where individuals can fulfill their God-given potential. According to the MCE, Ghana’s journey to independence was marked by sacrifice, resilience, and steadfast willpower in the fight for freedom from colonial masters. He called for the protection of the country’s democracy for the current and future generations.