THE SOUTH Tongu Municipal Assembly, under the leadership of Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Hon. Victoria Dzeklo, has initiated a series of stakeholder engagements aimed at fostering inclusive governance and grassroots participation.
With support from Presiding Member Hon. Mensah Kwaku Kudze and Assembly Members, the Assembly convened productive sessions with key stakeholders, including driver unions, Okada riders, hairdressers, and dressmakers.
The initial engagement took place in Sogakope, bringing together diverse groups to discuss community development and service delivery. A follow-up session was conducted on June 6, 2025, in Dabala, to reinforce the Assembly’s commitment to continuous dialogue with constituents.
These engagements are part of the Assembly’s broader strategy to ensure that the voices of all community members are heard and considered in decision-making processes. By directly involving transport operators and artisans, the Assembly aims to address local concerns effectively and collaboratively.
Hon. Victoria Dzeklo, who made history as the second female Municipal Chief Executive of South Tongu, emphasized the importance of such dialogues in promoting transparency and accountability within the Assembly’s operations.
Her leadership continues to inspire active participation from various community sectors, fostering a more inclusive approach to governance.
The South Tongu Municipal Assembly remains dedicated to engaging with all stakeholders to drive sustainable development and improve the quality of life for its residents. Some of the issues discussed were as follows:
Reduction in Transport Fares: A Call for Compliance;-
Hon. Dzeklo expressed gratitude to His Excellency John Dramani Mahama for fulfilling his campaign promise to reduce petroleum prices, which has significantly eased the financial burden on businesses and commuters.
She reiterated the government’s directive for transport operators to reduce fares by 15% to ensure that the benefits of the fuel price reduction trickle down to passengers.
To prevent conflicts between drivers and passengers over fare adjustments, the MCE urged driver unions to display updated fare charts at all stations to promote transparency. She also cautioned against overcharging and arbitrary fare hikes, warning that non-compliance could lead to enforcement measures.
Road Safety and Legalization of Okada Operations;-
Addressing Okada riders, the MCE emphasized strict adherence to *road safety regulations, including:
– Mandatory use of helmets for both riders and passengers.
– Proper installation of rearview mirrors and prohibition of silencer removal to curb noise pollution.
– Registration and licensing with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) as plans to formalize the Okada business progress.
Additionally, riders were advised to avoid nighttime operations due to security risks and to participate in monthly sanitation exercises to maintain clean and hygienic work environments.
Empowering Artisans Through Government Initiatives;-
The engagement also focused on supporting hairdressers and dressmakers through skill development and business formalization.
The MCE highlighted key opportunities under government programs such as:
– National Apprenticeship Programme – Encouraging master trainers to enroll apprentices to expand skilled labor.
– Adwumawura Initiative – Providing access to startup capital and vocational training.
– Business Formalization – Urging artisans to register with the Assembly for Business Operating Permits (BOPs) to enhance legitimacy and access to financial support.
Artisans were also encouraged to leverage ICT for modern designs, digital marketing, and e-commerce to boost their businesses. In response, the leadership of dressmakers and hairdressers appealed for support in securing roadside spaces to set up shops for graduating apprentices. The MCE pledged to engage landlords and explore viable solutions.
Community Concerns and Infrastructure Appeal
During the Dabala session, driver unions and Okada riders raised concerns over frequent accidents at Adutor Junction, requesting the construction of speed humps to enhance safety. The MCE assured them that the Assembly would prioritize the project once funds are allocated.
A Visit to Dzebenu Elders:
As part of her community outreach, Hon. Victoria Dzeklo, the Presiding Member, Hon. Mensah Kwaku Kudze the Municipal Engineer, a Staff from NADMO office and the Assembly Member, Hon. Christian Voryexor visited Dzebenu near Sondo to address concerns regarding Housing Project for flood victims, reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to disaster recovery and sustainable resettlement.
In conclusion, Hon MCE, Madam Victoria Dzeklo commended all participants for their active involvement, and reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to collaborative governance, road safety, and economic empowerment.
She urged continuous dialogue to address emerging challenges and foster inclusive development across the municipality.
