By Paul Mamattah
The Dzaasetse of the Asere Kotopong Stool of the Ga State of the Greater Accra region, Nii Amarkai III, has urged the people of the Ga State to undergo a collective change in mindset in order to drive development not only within their communities, but also throughout the entire region.
He emphasized the need for the people to embrace a progressive and forward-thinking mindset that prioritizes development, innovation, and unity, stressing the pivotal role that a change in mindset can play in shaping a brighter future for the Ga State and the surrounding areas.
Nii Amarkai III, made the assertions while addressing elders and Chiefs of Asere Kotopong after he had returned from his annual tour to the United States of America. As part of the visit, amongst other duties, he used the opportunity to showcase some developmental projects being undertaken within his community.
The traditional leader was met on arrival at the Airport on Saturday, February 10, 2024 by a high-level team from Asere Kotopong.
As a leader in his community, Nii Amarkai III, has a unique platform to influence and inspire positive change within the traditional leadership structure.
Nii Amarkai III, underscored the need for Chiefs to put an end to all litigation related to chieftaincy disputes and redirect the resources used in litigation towards educational funds to support school children in the area.
He explained that these disputes are causing significant damage to families hence the need for Chiefs and family heads to invest in educational funds to ensure the proper education of their children. By shifting focus from legal battles to the development of the Ga State, community leaders can make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of their people.
The eminent leader expressed his concerns over the detrimental impact of chieftaincy disputes on the socio-economic growth of the Ga State, adding that the longstanding feuds and conflicts that have plagued the Ga State for years and emphasized the urgency of redirecting attention towards the common goal of improving the lives of their people.
“Our people are tired of division and constant wrangling over chieftaincy matters. It is time we prioritize the development of our communities and work towards common goals that will enhance the lives of our people”. He emphasized.
Nii Amarkai III, further underscored the importance of significance of unity and collaboration among the traditional leaders in fostering development and stressed the pressing need to create platforms and engage in discussions that would promote decision-making for the betterment of the Ga State, rather than being consumed by disagreements.
“We must set aside personal interests and work collectively to achieve progress in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation,” Nii Amarkai III urged.
Nii Amarkai III, stressed the importance of investing in educational funds as a means to secure a brighter future for the younger generation. By prioritizing education, the Chiefs can provide opportunities for the children to thrive academically and equip them with the necessary skills for success.
The renowned Chief highlighted the immense potential that the Ga State holds in terms of attracting investments, fostering economic growth, and improving the overall living standards of its residents indicating that these opportunities can only be fully harnessed if the people are willing to shed old habits, prejudices, and limiting beliefs.
Drawing attention to the increasing pace of technological advancements and global competition, Nii Amarkai III, urged the citizens of the Ga State to embrace change and adapt to new ways of doing things. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talents, investing in education and skills development, and fostering a favorable environment for entrepreneurship and innovation.
According to the Chief, collective efforts are required to challenge the status quo and overcome the various developmental obstacles that have hindered progress in the region for far too long. Unity among the Ga people, he asserted, is vital for cultivating a positive mindset that will enable the realization of tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential sectors.
Nii Amarkai III, consequently disclosed that as part of his visit to the United States of America, he has been able to secure fifty (50) Desktop computers to furnish a proposed Computer Science Centre to be constructed at Ademan, a community in the Ga West Municipality in the Greater Accra Region.
He also expressed his commitment to working hand in hand with government bodies, influential stakeholders, and the broader community to create an enabling environment for progress and development.
Nii Amarkai III, called on all Ga indigenes to actively engage in initiatives and projects that would drive socio-economic growth, enhance cultural preservation, and elevate the Ga State’s standing within the larger regional context.
The respected Chief has been a champion of community development projects, including infrastructure improvements, educational initiatives, and economic empowerment programs. By leading by example, he has demonstrated how traditional leaders can leverage their positions to bring about meaningful change. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has garnered support from both local and international leaders who recognize the importance of prioritizing development over disputes.
Over the years, the Ga State has experienced numerous chieftaincy disputes, which have often led to division and stagnation. In light of this, Nii Amarkai III has been vocal about the need for traditional rulers to shift their focus from disputes to development.
The call for unity and development by the Dzaasetse of Asere Kotopong comes at a crucial time when the Ga State is grappling with various socio-economic challenges such as unemployment, inadequate and the lack of quality education.
These issues affect the lives of Ga citizens, and it is imperative that the traditional leaders prioritize finding lasting solutions to combat these challenges.
As the Ga State leaders reflect on Nii Amarkai III’s powerful message, it is hoped that this renewed focus on development will usher in a new era of unity and progress. With the shared goal of enhancing the lives of their people, the Ga State communities stand poised to rise above their differences and work collaboratively towards a brighter and prosperous future.
