E/R:Akyem Maase Chief Appeals to Government for Police Station, Raises Alarm on Land Degradation and Drug Abuse

 

Akyem Maase, Eastern Region —

As part of this year’s Ohum Festival celebrations, Osabarima Adu Asare Bosompem I, Chief of Akyem Maase, has made a heartfelt appeal to the Government of Ghana and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to expedite the establishment of a police station in the community.

Speaking to journalist Nana Kwasi Asare during the festive occasion, the Chief noted that there is an old, dilapidated agricultural office building in the town that could easily be renovated and repurposed as a police station. Despite several appeals in the past, the project has seen little progress. However, Osabarima Bosompem remains hopeful that the government will finally heed their plea this year.

“We have already identified a building that only needs renovation. Establishing a police station will significantly reduce crime and bring lasting peace to the area,” the Chief said.

The Chief did not mince words when addressing some of the major challenges confronting his community. He revealed that illegal sand winning activities are posing a serious threat to their arable lands. Though illegal mining (galamsey) is not present in Akyem Maase, he lamented that the community’s water sources have been polluted—likely from upstream activities—rendering the water unsafe for both drinking and agricultural purposes.

To curb the sand winning menace, Osabarima Bosompem disclosed that he has initiated talks with the Ghana Lands Commission to take decisive action to protect the environment and preserve their farmlands for future generations.

Another pressing concern highlighted by the Chief was the growing rate of drug abuse among the youth—a situation he described as a national crisis. He praised the intervention of a mentor and Deputy Director from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, who visited the town during Awukudae to offer guidance and advice to students gathered for the celebration.

“Our youth are the future, and we must all rise to protect them from the traps of drug addiction,” the Chief added.

In a gesture of appreciation, Osabarima Adu Asare Bosompem I extended heartfelt thanks to Osagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin, the Okyenhene, for facilitating the repair of the town’s previously deplorable roads, which are now motorable and easing transportation for residents.

Touching on the importance of the Ohum Festival, the Chief described it as a treasured tradition handed down by their ancestors. He explained that the festival is not only a time to honor their forebears but also a means of fostering unity, peace, and a sense of belonging within the community.

“Ohum is more than just a celebration—it’s a reminder of who we are, where we come from, and the strength we have when we stand together,” he emphasized.

In his closing remarks, the Chief addressed the growing use of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okadas, within the town. He urged riders to be mindful of their speed and prioritize safety to prevent unnecessary accidents, especially during the festive season.

He also used the occasion to invite both local and foreign investors to Akyem Maase, highlighting the availability of vast tracts of land suitable for agricultural purposes. He called on the government and private sector to take advantage of the fertile land and support agribusiness initiatives in the area.

Additionally, the Chief appealed to natives living abroad to continue supporting the development of the community through investments, donations, and collaborative initiatives that promote social and economic progress.

Credit: Nana Kwasi Asare