Osu Mantse declares support for Marine Investment project
Nii Okwei Kinka Dowuona VI, the Osu Mantse, on behalf of the Osu and Gbese stools has declared their support for the execution of the Marine Investment project (MIP).
Nii Kinka Dowuona VI said the Osu and Gbese stools, who are custodians and allodia owners of the land, had given their consent and blessings for the commencement of the project.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, Nii Kinka Dowuona VI, said: “We have also performed the necessary customary rites for the clearing of the land by the anchor developer to commence work.”
He said the Ministry had actively engaged both Osu and Gbese stools before cabinet gave approval for the implementation of the Marine Drive in August 2014, adding that there had been series of meetings between the previous Minister, the current Minister and the Technical officers and both Osu and Gbese stools.
“We have received letters from the Ministry giving promise to the fulfilment of the continuous engagement and signing of memorandum of understanding, and so all citizens must come together to support both Osu and Gbese stools, and the government to successfully implement the project.”
The Osu Mantse noted that both stools were committed to the project because of the immense benefits associated with it, including the development of the beach area and its environs as well as preservation of cultural sites along the beach.
He said the creation of jobs, training of indigenes to work in the tourism and arts, culture industry, generation of income for unskilled and skilled workers, construction of social projects, payment of royalties as well as establishment of education fund for both communities are some of the benefits to be derived from the project.
Nii Kinka Dowuona VI, however, noted that all concerns with regard to the project must be channelled through both the Osu and Gbese Traditional Counsels for redress, including suggestions and contributions.
He called on citizens to come on board and support both stools and the government to successfully implement the project and encouraged the media to give positive reportage on the project to expedite its completion.
The Osu Mantse took the opportunity to call on citizens and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the ban on drumming and noise making and not flout tradition but rather preserve it, saying it would officially be lifted on 2nd and 8th June respectively.
Source: GNA