Government has taken a step to strengthen citizens’ engagement, and improve communication between public officials and communities.
This was justified recently when Deputy Minister for State, Bill McGill Jones, hosted a county-wide outreach engagement in Bong County.
The outreach brought together a cross-section of citizens.
The meetings provided a platform for government officials to share development updates while also listening to concerns from residents.
Jones emphasized the need to engage the locals as part of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s commitment to ensure government remains accessible, transparent, and responsive to the needs of citizens.
He said, direct interaction between officials and the public was essential to build trust and ensure that development initiatives reflect community priorities.
During the discussions, Jones highlighted several key development projects being implemented, and planned under the current administration.
These include the construction of a regional referral hospital, a modern convention center in Suakoko, road rehabilitation projects, expanded access to safe drinking water, and improvements at Phebe and C.B. Dunbar hospitals.
He also underscored the need for government to invest in education.
Jones pointed to ongoing support for Cuttington University, Bong County University, and the various technical and vocational training centers.
He said, equipping young people with practical skills remains central to reduce unemployment, and create economic growth.
Residents who participated in the engagement, talked about improved infrastructure, healthcare delivery, and limited economic opportunities.
Jones assured the locals that their concerns would be relayed to the appropriate authorities for consideration and possible action.
As part of his interaction with communities, Jones provided L$100,000 in Totota to assist with transportation, and an additional L$50,000 for citizens’ get-to-gather.
He encouraged residents to remain united and actively involved in development efforts.
The outreach forms part of government’s effort to bridge the gap between leadership, and the people.
