Govt to Allocate GHC52m for Phase III of Appiatse Reconstruction Amid Complaints Over Defects

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has announced that government will release GHC52 million from the Appiatse Support Fund to commence Phase III of the Appiatse reconstruction project.

So far, the Support Fund has raised GHC112 million, out of which GHC60 million has already been used for Phases I and II.

Concerns Over Defects in Phase I

Despite the commissioning of 124 housing units in the first phase, some residents have expressed dissatisfaction, citing structural defects and poor finishing.

A resident, Ekua Ernestina, lamented malfunctioning toilets, unplastered walls that peel off at touch, and deteriorating stairs. Another resident, Orlando Aidoo, criticized the rushed construction, claiming water leaks into the walls due to a lack of proper drainage.

The Secretary of the Phase Three Victims, Joseph Abu, warned that these issues must be corrected before Phase III begins. He called for block houses instead of bricks, improved layouts with halls, bathrooms, kitchens, and corridors, and better consultation with affected residents.

Compensation and Transparency Issues

Some 68 landowners whose properties were acquired for the project say they feel neglected. They protested earlier, citing a lack of transparency and unresolved compensation issues, despite the involvement of then–Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia during the initial commissioning.

Government’s Response

Minister Buah, alongside Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson, inspected the Phase I and II sites, assuring residents that their concerns will be addressed.

“Given the structural defects identified in Phase One, we’ll assess and resolve them before moving fully into Phase Three. It’s crucial to prioritize community concerns, including recreational facilities, healthcare centers, and business hubs for those who lost livelihoods,” he said.

He emphasized that the government is committed to delivering a more resilient and inclusive Phase III, using the remaining funds to meet both housing and social needs.

 

SOURCE:  Ebenezer Atiemo