Stephen Yakubu, the Upper West Regional Minister, has called on opposition parties to refrain from taking credit for government-initiated policies and projects. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the rightful source of such initiatives, particularly those that contribute to the region’s development.

“You should take credit only where it is deserved and recognize the government’s efforts when it implements projects that drive development and benefit the people,” Yakubu stated during the commissioning of 100 earthmoving machines, including trucks and other equipment, under the District Roads Improvement Project (DRIP) in the Upper West Region.

The Minister addressed ongoing claims by some opposition parties, who have been misleading communities by taking credit for the DRIP initiative, despite having no involvement in its creation. He clarified that the DRIP was entirely conceived by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the New Patriotic Party-led government, and no other political party or individual should claim ownership.

Yakubu highlighted that such actions by opposition parties create confusion among the public and discourage community members from actively participating in and maintaining government projects.

He further explained that the DRIP initiative is designed to improve deteriorating road sections and construct link roads based on community needs, thereby facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services. The central government will provide financial support to the assemblies to cover the operational costs of the machines and salaries for the operators.

Yakubu acknowledged the positive impact of the European Union’s Farm Roads support in improving the region’s road network but pointed out that significant gaps still need to be addressed.

Kuudigr K. Venantius, the Acting Regional Coordinator of DRIP, added that operators and mechanics have been recruited and will receive training from experts from the manufacturing company in China on the operation and maintenance of the machines. J.A. Plant Pool, the commercial wing of Jospong Group of Companies, which supplied the equipment, will ensure the availability of spare parts for ongoing maintenance.