Mr Kwakye Darfour (2nd right) and the Eastern Regional Minister (2nd left) flanked by a former Deputy Regional Minister and a former Regional Coordinating Director
The Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) has honoured the immediate past Minister of the Region, Eric Kwakye Darfour, for his exceptional contribution towards the development of the area.
At a short ceremony held at the regional capital, Koforidua, the current Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, noted that the honour is “in appreciation of your selfless and dedicated services, and in recognition of your countless sacrifices made during your tenure as the Regional Minister.”
Kwame Acheampong, a former MP for Mpraeso, described Mr Darfour, a former MP for Nkawkaw, as a mentor in Parliament who constantly advised him on several issues. He said the former minister’s determination to see him succeed propelled him to the heights he has achieved now.
Role in ERICSIP
A citation presented to honour Mr Darfour acknowledged the role he played in the formation of the Eastern Regional Investment Coordination for Sustainable Industrial Programme (ERICSIP). The programme was established to bridge the gap between the ERCC and the various Municipal and District Assemblies in the region. The programme targets investment potentials and opportunities meant to attract private investment to promote indigenous industries.
“You were inspiring and you raised the morale and performance of all staff, leading to improved institutional performance. You were liked by all because of your style of leadership, allowing work flow, but along the trajectory of laid down rules and regulations,” portions of the citation eulogised the former Minister.
Some staff of the ERCC also described Mr Darfour’s tenure as “remarkable”. “The management and the entire staff of the office of the ERCC, Regional Departments and the Municipal and District Assemblies in the Eastern Region owe you much gratitude for your progressive leadership, humility, steadfastness and fortitude in working to put the Eastern Region on its formidable pedestal,” they said.
Mr Darfour expressed appreciation to the Regional Minister, staff of the ERCC and the various departments and assemblies for the honour. He assured them of his continuous availability for the progress of the region anytime his services are needed.
Mr Darfour served as Eastern Regional Minister from May 2017 to March 2021. The event was also used to honour the former Deputy Regional Minister during Mr Darfour’s administration, Samuel Nuertey Ayertey, and a former Regional Coordinating Director, Samuel Kweku Gyimah. It was attended by all 33 Municipal and District Chief Executives, their Presiding Members, Coordinating Directors and Heads of Department in the Region.
