The Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, Mr. Roland Atanga Ayoo, has expressed disappointment regarding the Gh¢201,599.50 SOCO mechanized boreholes project. Initially intended to support farmers in the Daweo and Sumbrungo Amogrebiisi communities, local farmers feel the project has fallen short of its original purpose.
After touring the two communities to inspect and hand over the mechanized boreholes, Mr. Ayoo conveyed his dissatisfaction. He listened to the concerns of the farmers, who believe that the boreholes will not adequately support their dry season farming needs.
Farmers have voiced their frustration over the execution of the project by Al-Kahf Company Limited. They claim that the boreholes cannot provide sufficient water, even for a small area, which undermines the project’s intent. “With the kind of explanation given by the contractor and the municipal assembly, we feel short-changed,” they told Word News.
Mr. Ayoo pointed out that while the projects have been completed, he is unimpressed with the outcome. “This system cannot provide enough water for dry season irrigation,” he stated. He emphasized the need for careful consideration of the purpose of such facilities during contract awards.
He explained that the vast agricultural land in the area requires more robust solutions. “This borehole alone cannot pump enough water for even two acres, let alone the entire expanse,” he noted. He criticized the technical planners and the contractor for failing to serve the community’s needs.
Mr. Ayoo urged contractors and technical personnel to prioritize the interests of the local population in future projects. “They should work diligently and ensure that the beneficiaries are at the center of their plans,” he said.
Mr. Alhassan Washiru, the assembly member for the Daweo electoral area, echoed the community’s concerns. He lamented that the underground poly tank runs dry after a short distance, making it inadequate for meaningful dry season farming. “Our farmers are suffering,” he stated. “After harvesting, they face debts, and this year many crops have dried up due to lack of water.”
He appealed to Mr. Ayoo for further assistance, emphasizing the urgent need for additional resources to support local farmers.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Ayuureneeya