The Central Regional Co-ordinating Council (CRCC) has held its 1st Council Meeting in Cape Coast, gathering key regional stakeholders to deliberate on critical development issues affecting the region.
The Honorable Central Regional Minister, Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, commended members for their timely attendance and dedication to the growth of the region.
He emphasized the importance of peace and security, resource mobilization, and full participation of MMDCEs in ongoing development activities.
The Minister highlighted pressing concerns including agriculture and agro-processing, prioritization of road projects, and the need for ethical standards in road construction. He urged a collective focus on environmental sanitation and fighting illegal mining (galamsey), announcing that the Regional Security (REGSEC) has inaugurated a special committee to reclaim lands from illegal miners.
He further stressed vigilance in the distribution of premix fuel, warning MMDCEs to ensure it reached only fisherfolks and not diverted for profit.
The Minister declared education a top priority and called on the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) to join task forces checking building permits to promote responsible construction. He closed his address by invoking blessings upon the Central Region and all its residents.
The Regional Police Commander, Central Main Police Command (Cape Coast), COP Kofi Adu, shared updates on a high-profile murder case, declining illegal mining activity, and ongoing efforts to reduce road traffic accidents through education and sensitization. He affirmed that the region remains largely peaceful and calm.
ACP W.D. Foli, representing the Central East Regional Police Command (Kasoa), noted a rise in robbery cases and outlined measures to address them. He also pointed out challenges in network connectivity in areas like Okyereko, Domenase, and Dabenyin.
The Regional Health Director, Dr. Alberta A. Biritwum-Nyarko presented updates from the Ghana Health Service, with a focus on prevalent health issues including malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis.
Mr. E. K. Dawood Mensah, the Regional NADMO Director, reported on the state of disaster preparedness and emergency responses in the region, aligning NADMO’s efforts with wider developmental checks.
The Regional Director of Education, Dr. Juliette Dufie Otamie addressed developments from 2025 Basic Education Certification Examination (BECE), 2025 WASSCE preparations, and general educational progress in the region.
Mr. Peter Omega, the Regional Director from the Department of Agriculture, provided insights into the state of agriculture and agro-processing, emphasizing the sector’s potential to boost the regional economy.
Mr. Frederick Nyame, a Senior Development Planning Officer behalf of the Regional Economic Planning Officer, presented the status of the Medium-Term Development Plan, highlighting progress and future projections.
The meeting concluded with an engaging discussion on the Minister’s address and the presentations made.
In a closing remarks the Hon. Regional Minister reiterated the Council’s commitment to ensuring tangible outcomes.
This year’s 1st Council Meeting underscored a unified regional resolve to tackle developmental challenges head-on and sustain momentum towards a more prosperous Central Region.