By: Gloria Amoh
The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover says the DRIP initiative is not just about distributing essential road maintenance equipment.
In his address at the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP) launch in Accra, Mr Titus Glover explained that the DRIP initiative marks a significant breakthrough in the collective effort to enhance infrastructure and connectivity within communities.
This programme aims to revamp and fortify local road networks by providing essential road maintenance equipment. It also seeks to improve the maintenance, rehabilitation, and upgrading of roads across all 261 metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies in the country.
According to him, the initiative is not just about distributing essential road maintenance equipment but also aligns with the broader objectives of decentralization and local governance. And aims to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the people of Ghana.
He highlighted that DRIP symbolizes a commitment to empowering local authorities, fostering sustainable development, and ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of districts. “I am filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the transformative potential that lies ahead” he stated.
Mr. Titus Glover urged all metropolitan, municipal, and district chief executives to work diligently to ensure that the equipment are used effectively and maintained consistently.
“As heads of the various local authorities, you must actively champion the cause of the District Roads Improvement Program and we expect that this program will significantly enhance the capacity of your assemblies by bolstering resources, technical expertise, and skills for effective service delivery” he added.
He emphasized that in addition to improving service delivery, the increased capacity will also foster a more professional and skilled workforce within the assemblies by investing in technical training and development.
“I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to all our partners, stakeholders, and contributors who have played a pivotal role in bringing DRIP to fruition, especially His Excellency, the President, and the Vice President for their leadership, vision, and compassion”.
BACKGROUND
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on July 31, 2024, launched the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening decentralization and empowering local authorities.
The programme seeks to address the deplorable state of many rural roads across the country, which hinder community connection and trade.
The President emphasized that the programme is not just about roads, but about people and their livelihoods. He urged citizens to hold their local authorities accountable and participate in community development.
The president emphasized that the DRIP programme marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to improve the road network, with over 12,800 km of roads completed since since 2017.