By KWEKU BOLTON
The President of the Wa West Youth and Development Association, Dr Abdulai Darimani, has urged the government to prioritise investment in the district. According to him, poor and inadequate infrastructure is holding back economic growth.
Speaking at the association’s annual meeting held at Accra, Dr Darimani called for the rollout of flagship initiatives such as the “Big Push” and the “24-Hour Economy,” with a particular focus on improving roads, markets and electricity supply. He said these measures were essential to boosting productivity and driving sustainable development in Wa West.
Empowering the Next Generation
The association has placed youth empowerment at the centre of its development agenda. Dr Darimani highlighted efforts to enhance education, promote financial literacy and improve living condition of the people particularly the youth. “We want to prepare our youth not only for jobs but for leadership in their communities,” he said.
Financial Literacy and Savings
Financial literacy remains a pressing challenge in Ghana. According to recent data, around 68% of Ghanaians lack financial knowledge, while only 39.2% are bank account holders. In 2023, nearly three million people lived in extreme poverty with majority being rural dwellers surviving on less than $1.90 a day.
A banker and member of the association, Mr Abubakari Sigrinaa, stressed the importance of cultivating a culture of saving. He explained that savings accounts provide a safety net in times of fiscal crisis and can help young people plan for retirement, buy homes or start businesses. “Saving is not just about storing money,” he said. “It is about making money work for long-term success and independence.”
Healthy Living
The meeting also addressed health and wellbeing of the people. Dr Saaka-Dumba of Ridge Hospital emphasized the benefits of regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. She warned against poor lifestyle choices which increase the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity. “Healthy living enhances physical health, mental stability and emotional resilience,” she said.
Building Unity and Progress
Since its establishment, the Wa West Youth and Development Association has championed unity, peace, education and community empowerment. Its leaders say the district’s future depends on combining infrastructure development with investment in human capital.
