For 8 years, NPP gov’t didn’t extend electricity to a single household in Kasena-Nankana West – DCE
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Kasena-Nankana West, Stephen A-eke Akurugo, has strongly criticized the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, saying it failed to continue vital rural electrification projects in the district during its 8 years in power.
According to him, the administration abandoned electricity extension efforts that were started under the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, leaving many communities still in darkness, which has negatively affected development and security in the area.
“They came and met the rural electrification programme done by the NDC. But for the 8 years, they didn’t add anything,” Mr. Akurugo said during an interview on Breakfast Today last Wednesday.
Communities Still Without Power
Mr. Akurugo, who is a native of the district, expressed disappointment that entire communities, including his own hometown Sirogo, remain without electricity, despite the NPP’s promises to develop rural areas.
He shared that in some villages, residents are now buying their own electric poles to manually extend light to their homes.
“We went on campaign and I’m from Sirogo. What was left in 2016 is still what is there today. So you see, some people go and buy their own sticks and connect the electricity themselves. They need light to work, learn, and live a better life,” he explained.
Lack of Electricity Affecting Schools and Security
Mr. Akurugo highlighted that the lack of electricity is affecting education in the district. He said children struggle to learn at night due to the absence of light, which contributes to poor academic performance in many of the schools.
“How do you expect the children to learn at night without light? No electricity means no access to technology, no fans in classrooms, and no proper learning environment,” he lamented.
He also mentioned that the darkness in some areas increases insecurity, especially at night, and prevents businesses from operating effectively.
Vows to Prioritize Electrification Projects
As the new DCE under the John Mahama-led NDC administration, Mr. Akurugo has pledged to restart the rural electrification efforts in the district and ensure all unconnected communities are reached.
“It is my personal commitment and a top priority. Every community deserves light. Electricity is no longer a luxury — it is a necessity,” he stressed.
He said he will work with the relevant ministries and agencies to revive the abandoned projects and seek funding to expand electricity access to even the most remote areas of the district.
Bad Roads and Broken Bridges Making Life Difficult
The DCE didn’t end with electricity. He also drew attention to the poor road network in Kasena-Nankana West, saying that main roads are in bad shape and key bridges have remained broken for years without any repairs.
“The bridges connecting some communities have collapsed long ago, yet nothing has been done. This has disrupted farming, trade, and even access to health facilities and schools,” he said.
He promised to lobby for resources and attention from the Ministry of Roads and Highways and ensure that repair works begin as soon as possible.
“We can’t talk about development when people can’t even travel from one village to another without risking their lives,” he added.
Reviving Agriculture and Local Economy
Mr. Akurugo acknowledged that farming remains the backbone of the local economy in Kasena-Nankana West. He said one of his major goals is to support farmers and boost agricultural productivity, especially under policies rolled out by President John Mahama’s administration.
He mentioned that the district has fertile lands and hardworking people, but what they need is support, storage facilities, good roads, and access to electricity to power irrigation and storage systems.
“We are an agric-based district. If we invest in our farmers and help them get access to electricity, better roads, and market connections, we can reduce poverty significantly,” the DCE said.
Improving Education Infrastructure
Education is also at the heart of his development plans. Mr. Akurugo said improving the quality of education in the district is among his top five priorities.
He revealed plans to rehabilitate old school buildings, construct new ones, and ensure that all schools have access to basic infrastructure like water, electricity, and furniture.
“We can’t talk about quality education when children are learning under trees or in classrooms without light or chairs. We must fix this,” he said.
He also spoke about plans to motivate teachers, provide learning materials, and engage in community education campaigns to promote literacy and school attendance.
A Renewed Hope for Kasena-Nankana West
Mr. Akurugo ended his interview with a call for unity and support from the people of the district. He said his role as DCE will only be meaningful if the people are willing to work together to build a better future for their children and the next generation.
“I am not here for politics. I’m here to serve and bring real development. I need the cooperation of traditional leaders, youth groups, women’s associations, and every citizen,” he emphasized.
He urged the people to hold him accountable and promised transparency and hard work throughout his tenure.
“If I fail to deliver, I expect you to call me out. But I am determined to succeed. Together, we can make Kasena-Nankana West shine again,” Mr. Akurugo concluded.