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Business News of Saturday, 6 July 2024

Source: Daniel Kaku, Contributor

Concerned youth of Jomoro back Petroleum Hub project in Western Nzema

Some members of Concerned Youth Association of Jomoro Some members of Concerned Youth Association of Jomoro

The Concerned Youth Association of Jomoro in the Western Region have expressed unwavering support for the government, the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), and its partners in the execution of one of the world's largest Petroleum Hub Development Projects in the Municipality.

The youth, primarily from the area designated for the Petroleum Hub project, have also reached an agreement with Chiefs and elders of the Western Nzema Traditional Area to allocate a 20,000-acre land for the project.

Mr. Dominic Asare, spokesperson for the Concerned Youth Association of Jomoro, made these statements during a press conference in Half-Assini, Western Region.

The presser was held in response to criticisms from detractors of the enclave and Jomoro as a whole.

Mr. Asare stated, "We in the enclave recognize that 3.68% of the total land area of the Jomoro Municipality is significant. Considering the immense benefits that Nzemaland and Ghana as a whole will receive, we have no regrets in supporting the Petroleum Hub project."

He recalled the opposition faced between 2010 and 2012 when their leaders fought against the relocation of Ghana Gas to Atuabo due to irrational actions by detractors and their predecessors. These actions have left the area stagnant with minimal socio-economic activities, hindering job creation and improved living conditions for the youth.

Asare mentioned that key members of the youth have been closely monitoring the community engagements conducted by the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation. He highlighted that all communities, farmers, and landowners have been engaged appropriately.

He also confirmed that the PHDC has registered 4,015 farmers and over 1,000 landowners in 12 communities and settlements. Additionally, all 4,015 farms have been registered, and details of crops have been documented.

Regarding land compensation, Asare noted, "Some family heads have rejected the issue of equity and have demanded direct compensation."

He mentioned that the PHDC has engaged Nzemas in the diaspora, including members of the Nzema Koyele Eku, through a Zoom meeting on January 1, 2022. Over 120 participants had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification.

Asare however cautioned one Madam Allua Vaah to refrain from her involvement in Jomoro issues, emphasizing that she does not represent their interests.

He called for an end to hypocrisy, highlighting the unemployment and poverty faced by many young men and women in Jomoro, despite their qualifications in oil and gas disciplines.

The Concerned Youth from the enclave urged the government and the PHDC to expedite the process and attract additional investments for future phases of the project.

Mr. Asare warned detractors and saboteurs of the project to cease their actions, stating that any attempts to hinder the project will be met with strong resistance.