President John Dramani Mahama prepares for his July 25 visit to the Oti Region, residents eagerly anticipate his “Thank You Tour,” hoping he will address critical challenges affecting development and public welfare.
In interviews with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), residents expressed optimism that the visit will provide a platform for the former President to engage with them directly, listen to their grievances, and outline concrete plans to tackle their challenges.
One of the most urgent issues raised is the lack of a fully equipped hospital in Dambai, the regional capital. Residents lamented that despite the town’s status, it lacks a functioning hospital, forcing people to travel long distances for medical care.
“People are dying from preventable illnesses because they can’t access timely medical attention,” said Mr. Clement Kwasi Checke and Mr. Moses Gbanjab.
“The absence of a proper hospital is a ticking time bomb. We need immediate intervention.”
They explained that many lives have been lost due to delays in accessing healthcare in other towns, with the long travel distances adding financial strain and increasing health risks.
Mr. Destiny Chakpo, another resident, called attention to the deplorable state of inner roads in Dambai. He said the poor condition of roads in the capital makes movement difficult, especially during the rainy season.
“When it rains, the roads become muddy and slippery. Vehicles get stuck, and motorcyclists are at constant risk. It’s frustrating for a regional capital to have such poor infrastructure,” Mr. Chakpo stated.
Residents believe that the “Thank You Tour” presents a timely opportunity for President Mahama to assess conditions firsthand and commit to tangible improvements in the region’s infrastructure and healthcare systems.
They are hopeful that the former President will not only acknowledge their concerns but also propose realistic and timely solutions that will lead to long-term development.
“We’re counting on him to make a difference,” several residents echoed, pointing to the visit as a potential turning point for the Oti Region.