Former 2nd Lady, Matilda Amissah Arthur has expressed her disappointment and concern over the government’s failure to address the galamsey menace and the lack of development in the Western Region of Ghana
In a recent address at the Western Regional Development Forum organized by the Nana Kobina Nketsia IV Trust in Busua, she questioned both the political and traditional leaders for their failure to address the region’s neglect and lack of progress.
She also emphasized that the Western Region has long been overlooked and lacking in significant development. She pointed out that while there might have been small discussions on the issue in the past, there hasn’t been a serious and collective effort to address the challenges faced by the region. She asked whether there were factors hindering progress or if there was a sense of denial among the leaders.
“We have all known for a long time that our region has been neglected, helpless and that we have no legacy. But my question is, why has it taken us so long to come together and deliberate on how we can change this narrative? Yes! We might have met in small groups to talk about this issue before, but have we met as a serious group to deliberate? Are we happy to let the region deteriorate? Is there something that is preventing us, or are we in denial? Whatever it is, we have let our people down,” she said.
The former 2nd Lady expressed concern that the current state of underdevelopment could undermine the credibility of the region’s leaders in the eyes of the people. She criticized the perceived lack of action by chiefs, clergy, civil society, and the media, suggesting that their actions have contributed to the public’s distrust.
“We have all given the people of Western Region reason not to take us seriously or trust us. Where have you been as chiefs? Where have you been when all the lands are being taken over by galamsey? Some say that you have sold our land. Some say that you have fronted for big men in Ghana and from abroad and that some even say that you have been given huge sums of money, even though I don’t see it on you,” she added.
Matilda Amissah Arthur urged the leaders to come together and collaborate on a plan for the region’s development. She stressed that given the Western Region’s significant contributions to Ghana’s economy through mineral resources and cash crops, it deserves better attention and progress. She encouraged the leaders to unite under a “Busua Consensus” and work towards uplifting the region.