The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Wassa East, Mr. Alhassan Ibrahim, has reaffirmed his administration’s focus on grassroots-driven development while acknowledging stalled infrastructure projects and emerging public health issues confronting the district.
Speaking at the first Ordinary Meeting of the 4th Assembly, Mr. Ibrahim offered a balanced assessment of progress and persisting challenges. While highlighting milestones such as the advancement of the Nurses Quarters at Dompim and Phase II of the Daboase Health Centre, he admitted that crucial capital projects — including the District Assembly Office Complex, the DCE’s official residence, and the Daboase Market — have stalled due to funding constraints.
“Our development vision is intact, but we face real constraints. Efforts are underway to secure financing, including for key CODA-funded projects like the Atieku Market and Subri CHPS Compound,” the DCE said.
On the health front, Mr. Ibrahim disclosed that Wassa East has recorded 13 cholera cases so far in 2025, though the district remains unaffected by the ongoing MPOX outbreak.
He further revealed that the fight against illegal mining, or galamsey, is intensifying, with Enyinabrim and Sekyere Himan Police Stations now serving as temporary operational bases for the National Anti-Galamsey Task Force. This move comes as part of broader environmental and security reforms in the district, which also includes the rollout of the “Tree for Life” reforestation campaign at the Daboase Senior High Technical School.
In a boost to local governance, Mr. Ibrahim announced a sharp rise in the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) allocation—from GHS 2.58 million to GHS 19.3 million—signaling enhanced state support for decentralization. He also confirmed the long-awaited release of Assembly Members’ monthly allowances, though disbursement remains pending.
On fiscal performance, the DCE reported that the Assembly had achieved 27.12% of its Internally Generated Fund (IGF) target as of mid-year, with further gains expected from property rate collections among major businesses operating in the district.
Looking ahead, Mr. Ibrahim said a draft of the 2026–2029 District Medium-Term Development Plan is expected by July 31, with a focus on infrastructure, health, education, and security. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to citizen participation and transparency through planned community visits and stakeholder engagements.
He also praised the peaceful conduct of recent electoral processes and expressed appreciation for his unanimous confirmation as DCE, as well as the election of a new Presiding Member, Mr. Stephen Kuma-Angu.
“Our vision for Wassa East is bold but attainable,” Mr. Ibrahim concluded. “With cooperation and commitment, we can overcome the obstacles and achieve sustainable growth together.”
