The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly in collaboration with the Northern Command of the Ghana Armed Forces has opened a one month long In-service training programme for City Guards of the KMA.
The Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Kojo Bonsu who described the occasion as, “a long awaited programme come into fruition” said the Local Government Act 1993, (Act 462) and Legislative Instrument 1614 enjoins the Assembly to perform various functions among which, are traffic management, creation and maintenance of lorry parks and the provision of security for people.
“It is however unfortunate that the functions of the Guards in tandem with the Act 462 and Instrument 1614 have sadly been compromised over the years” he lamented.
The Mayor said, the setbacks are evident in the nuisances such as indiscriminate hawking, dropping and picking of passengers at unapproved points and apparent disregard for authority in the metropolis.
“What is even worrisome is the fact that, the role of the role of the Metro Guard has not been properly defined” he added.
Hon Bonsu said, to reverse this and other situations, the KMA took the bold decision to organize this one month training programme to build the capacity of the guards towards efficient and effective discharge of their duties.
“It’s our fervent hope that by the end of this training, there will be a remarkable improvement in the discharge of their duties and for that matter in our metropolis”. He hoped.
He urged the participants to take the course seriously since no mediocrity will be tolerated in the performance of their duties henceforth.
“I know you are in the best of hands, in terms of expertise and experience. You could not have undertaken this course anywhere else but here, so make the best out of this environment and instructors”, he advised.
Hon. Bonsu expressed the Assembly’s heartfelt gratitude to the GOC of the Northern Command and the Commanding Officer of the 4BN for their constant guidance, cooperation and support in its bid to ensure security in Kumasi.
“We are truly grateful for the cooperation so far and look forward to greater collaboration for the betterment of Kumasi”. He added.
“I am of the firm conviction that if we all put our shoulders to the wheel, together, we can move Kumasi forward” the mayor said.
The General officer of the Northern Command of the Ghana Armed Forces, Brigadier General Joseph Boampong, reminded the participants that, the occasion makes an important event in their training as guards of the garden city.
“You are here to commence a four week training which will among other things sharpen your physical outlook, professional posture as well improve your discipline and commitment to your duty as guards”. He said.
“It will also enhance your endurance level and develop your mental capabilities”. He added.
Brigadier Boampong said, “Your job as guards of this great city in an important contribution to law and order especially in the central business district”.
He explained that the orderliness of the commercial activities and movements in the heart of the Kumasi Metropolis lies with them.
“A lot has gone into the planning and preparation of this training package, and I therefore urge you to take this training seriously in order to be better placed for the demanding tasks that confront you as city guards” he reminded them.
Brigadier Boampong added that, “always remember that the success of your job hinges on discipline. Be disciplined all times”.
Stressing that, “I would also like to remind you to take very good care of the facilities you would be using during your training”.
He assured them that their comfort is guaranteed but the physical aspect will be demanding.
The guards will undergo the training sessions in three groups of 30 over a three month period.