The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Bibiani-Ahwiaso-Bekwai, Sebastian Obeng, has unveiled an ambitious development agenda to create jobs, expand local revenue, and tackle the menace of illegal mining.
Addressing journalists after appearing before Parliament’s Local Government and Rural Development Committee, Mr. Obeng declared that his foremost priority is sustainable youth employment to curb crime and improve livelihoods.
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“My vision is to see most of my indigenes gain meaningful work. I believe when they are employed, robbery and other social vices will reduce drastically,” he said.
To boost economic activity, the MCE announced plans to establish a 24-hour market in Bibiani to empower traders while increasing revenue for the assembly.
“I want to bring the market to the Bibiani area so that market women can benefit. At the same time, the assembly will also generate more revenue,” he explained.
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Mr. Obeng expressed grave concern over the destruction caused by illegal mining, noting that farmlands, rivers, and forests remain under constant threat. He revealed that his office, in collaboration with mining companies, is equipping young people with alternative livelihoods in farming and legal mining.
“Although we are doing our best to stop them from entering the forests and rivers, the challenge persists. But we are determined to end it. That is why we are training the youth so they can either work in legal mining operations or go into farming with support,” he stressed.
He further welcomed the government’s introduction of cooperative mining, describing it as a practical strategy to sanitize the small-scale mining sector.
“If you are doing cooperative mining, you will be based at one place, and your activities can be supervised. That way, illegal operations will be flushed out,” he emphasized.
On revenue mobilization, the MCE was upbeat about achieving the municipality’s 2025 target of GH¢6 million, revealing that GH¢3.3 million had already been collected by the third quarter.
“Last year we made GH¢5.5 million. This year, we are targeting GH¢6 million, and I am confident we will exceed it,” he assured.
With strong stakeholder collaboration, Mr. Obeng believes Bibiani-Ahwiaso-Bekwai will overcome its challenges and chart a path toward sustainable development.