Dr. Zaato Slams Government Over Abandoned Local Projects
A political scientist at the University of Ghana, Dr Joshua Zaato, has raised concerns over the government’s decision to deploy military engineers to Jamaica while several communities within Ghana are still recovering from disasters.
Dr Zaato, speaking on the AM Show, questioned why the expertise of the 48th, 49th and 50th Engineer Regiments is being offered to support Jamaica’s reconstruction after Hurricane Melissa when significant infrastructure deficits remain unaddressed domestically.
“We have so many areas in Ghana that still need rebuilding,” he said. “Have we finished fixing the Volta Region after the tidal wave destruction? There are deprived communities across the country that could make good use of the expertise of these engineering regiments.”
According to Dr Zaato, the government appears more inclined to showcase its capabilities on the international stage than to prioritise urgent local needs. He specifically pointed to broken bridges and damaged road networks – particularly those linking Denu and Keta – as areas where the military engineers’ services would be invaluable.
“It seems that when it comes to international missions, we want to show the world what we can do,” he added, “but at home, we are reluctant or unwilling to deploy the same resources to solve our own problems.”
The dispatch of troops from the 48th, 49th and 50th Engineer Regiments to Jamaica follows the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. President John Mahama, at a formal send-off parade, described the deployment as a humanitarian obligation, stressing Ghana’s historic solidarity with the Caribbean nation.
“The deployment reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to assisting countries in need, emphasising that the partnership with Jamaica reflected shared history and cooperation,” President Mahama stated.
While acknowledging the importance of international collaboration, Dr Zaato urged the government to strike a balance between supporting nations abroad and tackling pressing issues within Ghana. He called for a similar level of attention and resources to be directed towards rebuilding communities affected by disasters within the country.
Dr Zaato stressed the need for equal consideration, stating, “Ghana must balance external commitments with pressing domestic needs.”
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