WACA project not shelved, funds released; training starts next week, says Volta Regional Minister
The West Africa Coastal Areas (WACA) project in the Volta Region has not been shelved, and funds have already been released by the World Bank for part of the project, Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has said.
Mr Gunu was speaking after receiving a delegation from the Anlo Dukor on Monday. The delegation was sent by the Awormefia of the Anlo State, Togbi Sri III, and led by the Awadada of the Anlo Traditional Area, Togbi Agbesi Awusu II.
“I want to state clearly: that is not true,” Mr Gunu said, referring to rumours that the project had been shelved.
He said he assured Togbi Agbesi Awusu II and his elders that the World Bank has already released funds for a part of the project.
“Just a few days ago, I chaired a meeting in my office with LUSPA, and I can confirm that a one-week training programme for three beneficiary districts in the Volta Region has been scheduled in Aburi next week,” Mr Gunu said.
He said the Mahama government is fully committed to making sure the project takes off, adding that the necessary processes are underway by various ministries handling different aspects of the programme.
The MCE for Keta, the MCE for Ho, and the DCE for Anloga were also present at the meeting, Mr Gunu said. He said they confirmed that LUSPA visited their districts earlier this week and explained that before the project can finally launch, the framework must be properly put together.
“That work is actively ongoing by various ministries in charge,” he said.
Mr Gunu described the WACA project as vital for coastal communities, saying it addresses erosion, flooding, and land degradation while improving livelihoods.
“Let me be clear: no one should panic. The project is alive, and we will see it through,” he said.
He thanked Togbi Agbesi Awusu II and the Anlo Dukor for engaging with his office constructively. “Together, we will protect our coastline and develop the Volta Region,” Mr Gunu said.
By Philip Kendriz Elikem
