First Deputy Speaker commends Dagbamate for exemplary self-help development initiatives

The First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Bernard Ahiafor, praised the Dagbamate community. He recognized their strong commitment to self-help development.

Ahiafor spoke at the 2025 Apetorku Gbordzi Festival. He commended the community for its grassroots development and cultural preservation.

“This is my first visit as First Deputy Speaker,” he said. “I am honored to be here.” He noted that Dagbamate thrives on self-reliance. Ninety-nine percent of its projects are community-led.

He encouraged other communities to follow Dagbamate's example. Ahiafor highlighted several local initiatives, including a Vocational Training Centre. This center helps young people gain skills in tailoring and hairdressing.

He announced plans for a new dormitory block at the center. This project is also self-funded by the community.

“This community has built its own school and clinic,” he stated. “They are constructing a dormitory without waiting for government help.” He questioned why their request for a motorable road remains unaddressed.

Ahiafor criticized the neglect of road projects from the previous NDC administration before 2016. After the government changed, he noted that contractors withdrew from sites, leaving materials behind.

“In Avakpedome, blocks and mortar are still there,” he said. “Now that the NDC is back in power, I am working with the Ministry of Roads to resume this project.”

In support of local efforts, Ahiafor donated GHS 10,000 to the Dagbamate Development Committee.

He praised the Apetorku Shrine for promoting values like honesty and unity. “Dagbamate preserves Ghanaian culture diligently,” he remarked.

He noted that money left on the ground can remain untouched for months due to high moral integrity in this community.

“Such integrity is rare and must be celebrated,” he added.

Regarding calls for a national holiday honoring African Traditional Religion, Ahiafor acknowledged their importance but urged unity among traditional believers across Ghana.

“Public holidays are declared for widely practiced observances like Christianity and Islam,” he explained. “If traditional leaders unite in advocating for such a holiday, it could gain attention.”

Ahiafor thanked Dagbamate residents for their support during the 2024 elections. The NDC secured a strong mandate in the area under H.E. John Dramani Mahama’s leadership.

“I express heartfelt gratitude on behalf of President Mahama and our NDC family,” he said. “Your loyalty means so much to us.”

Ngorgbea Kofi Davor, Custodian of the Apetorku Shrine, reaffirmed core values like unity and truthfulness. He encouraged followers to uphold these values within their beliefs.

The Apetorku Gbordzi Festival celebrates cultural preservation in Dagbamate each year. It attracts worshippers and visitors from across Ghana and beyond, honoring African spirituality and heritage.