The minister cutting the tape to commission the vans
The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has commissioned three state-of-the-art communication vans for the Information Services Department (ISD), marking a significant milestone in efforts to enhance public communication and grassroots engagement across the region.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Ho, Mr. Gunu underscored the critical role of effective communication in governance, describing it as the backbone of inclusive development. He noted that the deployment of the vans reflects government’s commitment to ensuring that all communities, regardless of location, have access to accurate, timely, and relevant information.
“This occasion marks yet another significant step in our collective effort to strengthen public communication and bring governance closer to the people,” he said. “We are determined to ensure that no community is left behind in accessing vital information that shapes their lives.”
As part of a strategic deployment plan to maximise efficiency and impact, the Volta Region has been divided into three operational zones — Central, Northern, and Southern. The first van, assigned to the Central Zone, will be stationed in Ho and will serve districts including Ho, Ho West, Adaklu, Agotime-Ziope, Central Tongu, South Tongu, and North Tongu.
The second van will operate from Kpando in the Northern Zone, covering Kpando, Hohoe, Afadzato South, South Dayi, and North Dayi districts.
The third van, designated for the Southern Zone, will be stationed in Ketu South and will serve Ketu South, Ketu North, Akatsi South, Akatsi North, Keta, and Anloga districts.
The Minister further appealed to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), as well as Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), to ensure the proper management and maintenance of the vans.
He also charged officers of the Information Services Department to demonstrate professionalism, innovation, and dedication in utilising the vans to deliver accurate and factual information to communities across the region.
The Volta Regional Information Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasi Domi, described the commissioning as a landmark moment in the department’s operational history. He expressed appreciation to the government for providing essential resources to strengthen the department’s outreach.
According to Mr. Domi, the support package includes the three communication vans with accessories, 19 desktop computers for district and regional offices, one laptop for the regional office, and 19 routers to improve connectivity across the region and link with the national office.
Mr. Domi further highlighted the need for additional equipment to maximise the functionality of the vans, including electrical connections, high-quality laptops, video equipment for live broadcasts, and reliable power charging systems. He appealed to assemblies and agencies to support the acquisition of these items.
The commissioning of the communication vans is expected to significantly improve information dissemination, enhance citizen engagement, and strengthen the link between government and communities across the Volta Region.
FROM Daniel K. Orlando, Ho