The Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (ERCC) convened its first meeting of 2024 at the ERCC Conference Hall, in line with Section 191(1) of the Local Governance Act, 936 (2016). This Act mandates that Regional Coordinating Councils hold at least two meetings annually to assess the Region’s progress.
The Honorable Eastern Regional Minister, Seth Kwame Acheampong, praised the dedication of the ERCC’s management, staff, and departments in fulfilling their obligations. In his address, he provided updates across various sectors, reflecting on the Council’s performance since the beginning of the year.
One key highlight from the Minister’s address was the registration of 90,000 farmers in the Region for the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ 2.0) program. He also mentioned that 2,739 farmers, including 1,563 males and 1,176 females, benefited from the Ghana Landscape Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project (GLRSSMP), which aims to address land degradation and promote sustainable landscape management.
The Minister further reported on infrastructure improvements, noting that 17.50 kilometers of town roads in the Region had undergone minor rehabilitation, partial reconstruction, or upgrading, while 19.11 kilometers of asphaltic concrete overlay were completed between December 2023 and July 2024.
Regarding regional security, Hon. Acheampong announced plans for the Regional Security Council to engage stakeholders across the municipalities and districts to ensure peace and stability before, during, and after the December 2024 elections.
On health matters, the Regional Quality and Safety Manager, Dr. Hectoria Awekeya, informed the Council that 22 districts had suspected cases of Dengue Fever, with six districts—Birim Central, Achiase, Akyemansa, Birim South, Birim North, and Kwahu West—confirming cases. As of July 28, 2024, there were 104 confirmed cases. Dr. Awekeya outlined measures to combat the disease, including staff training on Dengue case management and public sensitization through radio and television.
Finally, the Acting Chief Director of the ERCC, Mr. John Ankrah, urged all municipalities and districts to submit their data and reports promptly for onward submission to the Office of the Head of Local Government.