The Vice Chairman of Santrokofi Benua’s Development Committee and Krontihene, Nana Odabra Brekuate III, has positioned technology as a cornerstone for community development during the launch of the town’s homecoming durbar. The event, held at the Military Officers Mess near 37 Military Hospital, spotlighted the community’s ambitious multipurpose ICT centre project, which has been under construction since 2015.
“Technology is now key in every part of the world,” emphasized Nana Odabra Brekuate III. “This multipurpose ICT centre represents our commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring our community remains competitive in the modern era.” He urged all community members to pool resources together to ensure the project’s completion, stressing its potential impact on future generations.
The launch event revealed strong diaspora support for community development initiatives. Mr. Robert Brempong, a member of the ad hoc homecoming committee, praised the continuous contributions of community members living abroad. He particularly highlighted their swift response in rehabilitating classrooms destroyed by a recent rainstorm, demonstrating their commitment to educational infrastructure.
In recognition of the diaspora’s significant role, the traditional leadership has taken unprecedented steps to formally acknowledge their contributions. “Our town elders and premier leaders have authorized an official letter of appreciation to our brothers and sisters abroad,” Mr. Brempong announced. “This gesture ensures that their dedication to our community’s development receives proper recognition.”
The committee has implemented innovative measures to ensure inclusive participation in community events. Through live streaming and regular updates via video and audio recordings, diaspora members can actively participate in local gatherings despite physical distance. This technological integration aligns with the ICT centre’s vision of creating a more connected community.
Mr. Kwasi Ampofo Aniapah, the event’s chairman, emphasized the collective nature of the community’s achievements. “The beautiful developments we witness today result from the unified efforts of all Santrokofi people,” he stated. He announced the grand durbar scheduled for December 25, 2024, encouraging widespread participation and support.
The fundraising strategy includes tiered contribution levels, with diaspora members expected to contribute GHc500 and above, while local residents are encouraged to contribute between GHc50 and GHc100. These funds will support the ICT centre’s completion and other development initiatives.
Nana Buamah Kyerefor IV, Twafohene of Santrokofi Traditional Area and Chairman of the ad hoc planning committee, stressed the importance of unity in achieving development goals. “Our strength lies in our numbers and our ability to work together,” he stated. “The completion of this facility represents more than infrastructure; it symbolizes our collective vision for progress.”
The upcoming durbar has garnered support from various stakeholders, including traditional authorities from the broader Santrokofi traditional area. Their endorsement underscores the project’s significance for regional development and technological advancement.
The ICT centre, once completed, will offer various services including, Digital literacy training programmes, Internet connectivity for educational purposes, Community information hub, Skills development workshops, Modern library facilities, and Meeting spaces for community gatherings.
The launch event also addressed the community’s representation challenges, as Santrokofi Benua has been without parliamentary representation in the 8th Parliament. However, the focus on technological advancement and community development demonstrates their determination to progress despite political obstacles.
As the launch concluded, organizers established a comprehensive communication network to ensure all community members, both local and abroad, remain informed about the durbar preparations and ongoing development projects. This approach reflects the community’s embrace of technology as a tool for unity and progress.
The December durbar is expected to attract community members from across Ghana and abroad, serving as a platform to showcase Santrokofi Benua’s commitment to technological advancement and sustainable development in the Guan District of the Oti Region.
By Innocent Samuel Appiah
