Editorial
IMPORTANCE OF 1D1F
When the government, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, first announced that it was going to promote a programme known as One District One Factory (1D1F), a section of the public felt that this was not going to achieve anything.
On the contrary, the 1D1F programme has proved successful and is being undertaken in various parts of the country.
The President recently returned from the Northern part of the country where he inaugurated tomato and watermelon factories under the 1D1F.
Apart from the North, other parts of the country are also experiencing the positive impact of 1D1F.
Under the programme, a $16 million-tomato factory has been inaugurated by the President in the Berekum West District of the Bono Region.
Government, through Ghana EXIM Bank and Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), facilitated the acquisition of the loan facility to support the establishment and operations of the factory concerned which is owned by Weddi Africa Limited.
The good news is that the company is a wholly-owned Ghanaian entity. The 1D1F is, therefore, a reality and thereby helping to transform the economy of Ghana.
More of the factories under the 1D1F programme are needed in the country to maximise the benefits it can unleash for the economic growth of the country.
The tomato factory in Bono Region, for example, will process some 40,000 metric tonnes of fresh tomatoes per annum and will have also a 500 metric-tonne cold room to store fresh tomato fruits.
This, together with other benefits, such as employment of the youth in the area will help to transform the economic fortunes of the country.
For this reason, people must sit up and render their support to the government in uplifting the economic integrity of Ghanaians.
This is the only way economic development can be realised or put on a higher pedestal.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
