Background: Claims of ‘No Development’ in Akatsi South
In recent weeks, public discourse surrounding the Akatsi South constituency has centered on allegations that development efforts have stalled under the leadership of the Member of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor. Critics, including some local observers and political opponents, have argued that the district’s projects are few and far between, leaving residents dissatisfied with the pace and scope of progress.
Against this backdrop, Japhet Festus Gbede — an Assembly Member and a key member of the Akatsi South National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communication Team — has stepped forward to challenge the narrative. Gbede asserts that the claims of a development drought are not only inaccurate but also unfairly cast on the people and institutions driving growth in the area.
Gbede’s Response: A Defense of Ongoing Initiatives
Speaking to local media and community leaders, Gbede outlined what he described as concrete, on-the-ground efforts already underway in Akatsi South. He highlighted ongoing projects spanning education, infrastructure, healthcare, and market development. While acknowledging that development is a continuous process, Gbede emphasized that progress is measurable and often marathon-sized rather than sprint-like.
“It is essential to separate political rhetoric from reality on the ground,” Gbede said. “There are multiple projects in various stages of completion. To claim there is no development is not just inaccurate—it undermines the hard work of officials, traditional leaders, and community volunteers who are hustling to improve lives.”
Key areas Gbede mentioned include school infrastructure improvements, rehabilitation of district roads, enhancements to local healthcare facilities, and support for small businesses through micro-credit initiatives. He also pointed to community-driven programs, such as market days and youth empowerment activities, designed to stimulate local commerce and job creation.
Education and Infrastructure: The Visible Efforts
On the educational front, Gbede pointed to ongoing repairs and renovations of several primary and junior high schools, as well as the introduction of resource centers intended to boost learning outcomes. He noted that such projects require careful coordination with contractors, budget approvals, and adherence to safety and quality standards—factors that can extend timelines but do not equate to non-existence of development.
Infrastructure improvements, particularly road rehabilitation and maintenance, are frequently cited by residents as tangible signs of progress. Gbede said that government engineers and local contractors have been working to improve key corridors that connect communities, markets, and health facilities. These infrastructural gains, he argued, lay the groundwork for broader economic activity and regional integration.
Healthcare and Economic Empowerment
Healthcare upgrades, including upgrades to clinic facilities and equipment, were highlighted as essential components of development that directly affect daily life. Gbede stressed the importance of accessible healthcare in reducing travel times for emergencies and improving preventive care across Akatsi South.
On the economic side, support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and youth entrepreneurship programs was described as a critical instrument for sustainable growth. By fostering an enabling environment for local businesses, the constituency stands to benefit from increased job opportunities and income diversification.
Public Perception: The Role of Communication and Accountability
Gbede’s rebuttal goes beyond listing projects; he called for improved communication between elected representatives, civil society, and residents. He argued that constructive dialogue, transparent reporting on project milestones, and timely updates can help manage expectations and reduce misinformation. The Assembly Member urged the MP’s office and local government to publish clear progress dashboards and hold periodic town hall meetings where residents can raise concerns and ask questions.
Looking Ahead: What Residents Should Expect
While acknowledging that development is an ongoing journey, Gbede’s stance is that the trajectory remains positive. He urged voters and observers to evaluate development through a broad lens that includes infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, rather than focusing exclusively on visible, single-issue outcomes. In a constituency as diverse as Akatsi South, steady, incremental improvements often accumulate into meaningful change over time.
Conclusion: Defending the Record with Facts and Accountability
The assertion that Akatsi South has seen no development is a claim Gbede says should be tested against verifiable data and lived experiences of residents. His counter-narrative emphasizes ongoing projects, practical outcomes, and the need for robust communication channels to ensure accountability. As Akatsi South continues to evolve, the community’s resilience, collaboration, and commitment to progress will be essential in translating plans into tangible benefits for all residents.
