The Member of Parliament (MP) for Dome Kwabenya, Elikplim Akurugu, on Monday, March 23, organised a state of the constituency address (SOCA) at Haatso Church of Pentecost in her constituency to brief constituents on developmental projects and policies ongoing under her leadership.

The event which brought together traditional leaders, religious leaders, assembly members, and residents within the constituency also sought to draw attention to some challenges, announce future development plans, as well as promote transparency and accountability in the constituency.

Since assuming office, she has rolled out a number of initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, infrastructure, sanitation, and youth development.

During the address, she outlined key interventions undertaken over the past year.

She indicated that her role in Parliament goes beyond debates, stressing that it includes contributing to national policies and ensuring that the needs of her constituents are represented.

She noted her participation in the 2026 budget discussions, where she supported policies to boost agriculture, increase local production, and reduce dependence on imports.

She highlighted her support for major legislation, including reforms in electronic financial transactions, petroleum taxation, and social protection policies to support vulnerable groups.

Touching on education, she disclosed that more than 1,400 mathematical sets were distributed to BECE candidates, while students preparing for WASSCE also received support.

The MP indicated that financial assistance was provided to over 200 students entering senior high school, alongside the distribution of exercise books and learning materials.

She added that classroom blocks have been renovated, furniture repaired, and desks supplied to reduce congestion in schools.

She noted that efforts were ongoing to complete a senior high school project within the municipality.

On healthcare, she pointed to support given to facilities such as the Tantra Hill Polyclinic and other health centres, including the provision of equipment and financial assistance.

“Work is also ongoing to operationalise a maternity block to improve maternal care” she revealed.

She further noted that sanitation efforts, including clean up exercises and waste management activities, have been intensified to promote a cleaner environment and reduce disease outbreaks.

Addressing energy and security, she explained that the Light Up the Constituency initiative has led to the installation and maintenance of streetlights in several communities to improve visibility and safety.

She added that additional streetlights have been secured for further installation.

She outlined measures taken to address water shortages, including the deployment of water tankers to affected communities.

On youth empowerment, she highlighted the introduction of an MP Soccer Festival to identify and support talented young players, some of whom have gained opportunities abroad.

She added that farmers have benefited from the distribution of fertiliser and agricultural inputs to improve productivity and food security.

She noted that apprenticeship and entrepreneurship programmes have been introduced for the youth, while financial support has been extended to women to boost their economic activities.

The MP said that support has also been provided to persons with disabilities through financial aid and essential items to improve their living conditions.

On infrastructure, she indicated that several roads are being reshaped and rehabilitated, while new ones have been awarded for construction.

She acknowledged that some projects were abandoned but mentioned that steps have been taken to secure funding and bring contractors back to site.

She reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive development, adding that she will continue to advocate for policies that improve the lives of residents.

The Municipal Chief Executive for Ga East, Edmund Agbo,in his opening remarks described the event as a major step towards strengthening democracy and accountability.

He noted that the address reflects a growing culture of leaders engaging directly with the people and reporting on their stewardship.

He pointed out that the initiative is the first of its kind in the constituency and urged residents to support the MP in her development agenda.

He highlighted improvements in the national economy under President John Dramani Mahama, including a reduction in inflation, relative currency stability, and interventions across key sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.

He added that these national policies are positively impacting communities, including Dome Kwabenya.

He emphasised that leadership must reflect the needs of the people and encouraged continuous engagement between elected officials and constituents.

Ms Akurugu was elected in 2024 after a keen contest with the New Patriotic Party candidate, Mike Ocquaye Jr.

Her victory marked a shift in political leadership in the constituency.

By: Jacob Aggrey