Akim Ofoase (E/R), June 25, GNA - Government would not renegade in efforts to develop the agricultural sector to provide food security and employment, despite the large discovery of minerals and oil. Mr Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, Eastern Regional Minister, made this known at a durbar of the chiefs and people of Akim Ofoase, as part of his official tour of the Akyemmansa District. He said to facilitate the vision, government is subsidising fertilisers to farmers as well as tractors and irrigation equipment for all- year- round farming.

He called on traditional authorities in the area to support the government re-afforestation programme by helping to plant more trees to protect the environment. Mr Ofosu-Ampofo said the first phase of the 13-kilometre Ofoase-Ayirebi road has been tarred, whilst the rest of the project is being repackaged.

Mr Tom Budu, District Chief Executive observed that the deprivation of the district is having a toll on efforts to bring governance to the door steps of the people. He said the assembly has no administrative block, an assembly hall a market facility and a well- developed Lorry Park to support revenue generation efforts. Mr Budu said despite the challenges, the assembly had made strides in development projects. Obrempong Boakye Akoto, Chief of Akyem Kotokuom, who spoke on behalf of the traditional authorities in the district, called for the rehabilitation of roads in the area and upgrading of Brenase clinic into a district hospital. He also appealed for the improvement of second cycle schools in the area and the establishment of a college of education. Mr Kwame Okyere Boateng, a spokesman for the assembly members, appealed for the provision of staff bungalows and the construction of an assembly hall and administrative block. 25 June 10