The overlord of the Kpembe Traditional Area in the Savanna Region, Kpembi-wura Banbagne Ndefeso IV, has appealed to residents of the traditional area to help him fight illegal logging activities.

He noted that the effect of phenomenon is a contributory factor to changes in the rainfall pattern in the area.

In a speech read on his behalf by Lepowura MND Jawula at the climax of the 2019 Kpembe Damba Festival, he reiterated his commitment to fighting the menace.

The Kpembi-wura revealed he has demonstrated his commitment by arresting some loggers who are before court.

“I have constituted a committee to improve upon surveillance activities and to deal ruthlessly with any person caught in the act,” he said.

He bemoaned the involvement of indigenes of some communities who have succeeded in introducing foreign loggers to the area.

The Kpembi-wura also used the occasion to remind government of its promise to fix the main Tamale-Salaga trunk road, which he says is in a deplorable state.

He noted the construction of the road will open up several economic opportunities for the people in those areas.

Kpembi-wura Banbagne applauded government for his flagship programmes like the 1D1F, 1V1D, Free SHS, Planting for Food and Jobs among others which the people of Kpembe have benefited from.

He also commended management of the Ghana Water Company for the speed of work towards ending perennial water crises in Salaga.

The guest of honour for the occasion, Savanna Region Minister, Adam Salifu Braimah, assured the gathering of government’s commitment to fixing the road.

He said the Salaga township roads will also be awarded on contract soon.

On logging, the Minister expressed gratitude to the Kpembi-wura for taking the challenge to fight the menace and assured him of his support.

Meanwhile, the Savanna regional minister together with some members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) visited Makango to assess the extent of damage caused by last Friday’s accident on the Volta Lake following the sinking of a ferry.

He assured the people government is considering putting up a bridge on the 7km lake.

This year’s Kpembe Damba Festival was on the theme ‘Promoting tourism for sustainable development’.