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Mr. Kwabena Animonyam, the Unit Committee Chairman of Manso Tontokrom, popularly known as Komfuo Kwadae, has urged Ghanaians to take proactive steps in initiating their own community development projects rather than waiting solely for government intervention. He emphasized the importance of communities taking the first step, with the expectation that government support will follow to complete these initiatives.
“Government cannot do everything for us in our community development. We, the residents, must start something for the government to come and support us,” said Mr. Animonyam during a media tour showcasing the community-driven development projects in Manso Tontokrom.
Among the notable ongoing projects highlighted during the tour are the construction of a three-unit Junior High School classroom block and a teachers’ bungalow. These projects are the result of efforts by the Unit Committee, the Assembly member, committee members, and residents working together to improve local education infrastructure.
Mr. Animonyam also shared the success of the community’s response to a power issue that arose when the transformer providing electricity to Manso Tontokrom was destroyed. Rather than waiting for government assistance, the community members, alongside the Unit Committee, mobilized funds to purchase and install a new transformer.
“We did not wait for the government. We took it upon ourselves, raised the funds, and got the transformer fixed for the community,” he explained.
Looking forward, Mr. Animonyam called for government support in completing other planned projects, such as the construction of a community center for Manso Tontokrom. He stressed that while the residents are eager to contribute, they still require government assistance to bring these projects to completion.
Despite the community’s achievements, Mr. Animonyam pointed out the shortage of teachers in schools, urging the government and the Amansie South Education Directorate to post more teachers to enhance the quality of education in the area.
In addition to these issues, Mr. Animonyam reflected on the positive changes in the community since the formation of the new Unit Committee. He highlighted the reduction in conflict and violence, particularly between residents and mining companies operating in the area. He said initially mining companies were using machomen and soldiers to harass and torment the residents of Manso Tontokrom, which triggered violence and caused some teachers to flee the community.
He said now calm has been restored, and the mining companies are no longer causing unrest. Residents now live in a peaceful environment where they can carry out their daily activities without fear.
“There is now peace in Manso Tontokrom. The fighting and unrest caused by mining companies have been resolved. The community now has a good name,” Mr. Animonyam stated proudly.
Finally, he appealed to the government to address the poor road conditions in the Amansie South District, a major challenge for the community’s development.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
