Role of civil society required for national devt

Odumase Krobo, Aug. 27, GNA- Mr Yaw Barimah, Eastern Regional Minister, on Friday said despite measures being initiated by the government towards national development, no meaningful achievement could be attained without the active role of civil society to complement efforts of the authorities.

He commended the Presbyterian Church for its contribution towards the socio-economic development of the country, especially in the area of education and health.

Mr Barimah said this in an address read for him by Ms Golda Asante, Assistant Director at the Regional Co-ordinating Council, at the 23rd annual delegates conference of the Presbyterian Church Nen's Fellowship at Odumase Krobo in the Manya Krobo District.

He called on the Church and other religious bodies to in-corporate HIV/AIDS programme into their activities to help prevent the spread of the disease.

Mr Barimah expressed dissatisfaction about the increasing crime wave and immorality in the country despite the proliferation of Churches in the country and urged Christians to assist in the development of both the Church and the State.

Nene Sackitey II, the Paramount Chief of Manya Krobo, asked Churches to assist in the proper development of children to prevent any chaotic situation that might occur as a result of indiscipline and immorality.

The Reverend Lt. Col (rtd) David Tawia Padi, Dangme Tongu District Presbytery Chairperson, urged workers both in the formal and informal sectors to plan the lives well in order not to become miserable when they go on retirement.

Rev E. T Tekpetey, National Director of the Church in charge of Life and Norture (clan), asked the participants to dedicate their lives to the service of Jesus Christ.

The four-day conference which is under the theme: "That they may have life in fullness: Commitment and service (John 10:10) is being attended by 286 delegates from 14 Presbyteries of the Church.