Improve social infrastructure to attract investments to C/R - Ishmael Yamson

Dr. Ishmael Yamson, Board Chairman of MTN Ghana Limited, has called for concerted efforts from stakeholders in the Central Region to effectively untie the growing social inequalities and poverty.

That, according to him, will in return aid the desired investments into the Region and lead it to the path of accelerated socio-economic development to bring prosperity to all.

Dr Yamson who made the call at the official opening of the maiden Central Region Investments Conference indicated that “no investor is a Father Christmas” but all investors want good returns for their investments.

The four-day conference on the theme: "Positioning the Central Region as a preferred investment destination”, would feature discussions and presentations on strategically selected thematic areas to attract investment for comprehensive, viable and sustainable industrial development and seek solutions to key limitations to investments in the region

Mr. Yamson, who was obviously not enthused with the slow pace of development in the Region, regardless of it rich culture, coastal and marine, mineral resources, arable lands and brilliant human resource. He reiterated the need for authorities in the Region to show commitment and create the most friendly business environment that would result in mutually rewarding economic returns to attract the private sector to invest in the Region.

The business-friendly atmosphere will also help attract and retain foreign investment into the economy for faster growth, and noted that" government is incapable of solving all developmental challenges in the region." According to him, qualitative development cannot take place without effective collaboration and participation of the private sector regarded as the 'engine of growth and development'.

In that regard, Dr Yamson called on government to speed-up massive infrastructure development to open up the region for the desired transformational growth.

He reminiscent the lost communal spirit in the 'good old days’ where community members were seen not only clearing drains, building police stations, health centres and schools but contributed immensely to environmental cleanliness.

The voluntary participation of community members and the youth brought about not only a sense of belongingness and pride but also responsibility and fulfillment.

In support of his call for all inclusive development agenda, Obrempong Nyanful Krampah XI, the Paramount Chief of the Gomoa Ajumako Traditional Area and the President of the Regional House of Chiefs, declared their unwavering determination to support development efforts in the Region.

In assurance of their readiness, he announced that his outfit would in a month launch an effective website with updated information on investment opportunities in the region to attract and retain investors.

Again, the House also pledged to make acres of litigation free land to all prospective local and foreign investors to create jobs to support the livelihood of beneficiaries.

He however, charged all traditional leaders to endeavour to resolve disputes in their areas of jurisdiction to foster peace as the key ingredient for accelerated development and called on indigenes of the region not to sit on the fringes but contribute meaningfully to ensure the growth of their communities.