Gomoa Abora, Jan 25, GNA - Mrs Ama Benyiwa Doe, Central Regional Minister, has noted with concern the influx of criminals in the Region in recent times due to the police clamp down on armed robbers in Accra. "The proximity of the Region to Accra has made the area a safe haven for the criminals", the Minister said, and advised residents to be on their guard and to report suspicious characters found in their communities to the police.

Mrs. Benyiwa Doe gave the advice at the annual Akwambo Festival of the people of Gomoa Abora near Apam at the weekend. "Mob attacks, armed robbery, rape and defilement are on the increase in the Region, she noted, and urged the people to support the law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.

The Regional Minister said the School Feeding Programme was being expanded in the Region to cater for more schools, and urged the beneficiary communities to cultivate farms to support the Programe. Mr. Francis Kojo Arthur, Member of Parliament for Gomoa West, advised the youth to embrace the Youth in Agriculture programme to ensure food security for the country.

"We need fresh blood to support our aged parents who have been feeding the nation all these years," the MP said.

Mr. Theophilus Aidoo-Mensah, District Chief Executive (DCE) for Gomoa West, said work would start on the expansion of the water supply system to address the perennial water problem facing Apam and its environs by early February, and appealed to those whose kiosks and structures would be affected during the laying of the pipes to cooperate with the contractors. The DCE announced plans to organize quiz competitions among schools in the district to encourage the pupils to learn. Mr. Kow Anyanful, Central Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), called on Ghanaians to use education to reduce poverty in the country.

Nana Kwesi Hammah V, Aborahene, appealed to the government to reconstruct the Abora-Mumford-Brofoyedur road which had become unmotorable, to facilitate the movement of people and farm produce. He advised parents to show interest in the work of teachers and pupils and to support them to enable them to give of their best. "Open confrontation with teachers must be eliminated," the chief stated. School uniforms the DCE pledged to the children of Abora District Assembly Primary School during his visit to the school in September 2009, were presented.

Mrs Margaret Abban-Acquaye, Headmistress of the School, thanked the DCE for honouring his pledge. 25 Jan 10