Story by: Nii Okpoti Odamtten / Muhammed Faisal Mustapha….
In the evolving narrative of Ghana’s regional development, the Eastern Region is scripting a story defined by foresight, inclusion, and deliberate transformation. At the center of this renewed momentum is the Eastern Regional Minister, Hon. Mrs. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, whose leadership is anchoring a multidimensional agenda one that prioritizes youth mentorship, accelerates infrastructure growth, and reinforces security stability.
In an exclusive interview with Nii Okpoti Odamtten / Muhammed Faisal Mustapha, the Minister laid out a compelling vision that places young people at the heart of the region’s future, insisting that education must extend beyond the classroom into purposeful guidance and career clarity.
“We cannot continue to graduate students who are uncertain about their future. Mentorship is no longer optional it is essential,” she asserted.
For Hon. Awatey, mentorship is not merely an initiative it is a mission. Concerned by the growing number of senior high school graduates navigating their futures without direction, she is championing a structured intervention aimed at bridging the gap between education and opportunity.
“The reality is stark many students leave school without knowing what to study or where their choices will lead them. We are changing that narrative,” she emphasized.
Leveraging the Eastern Region’s status as one of Ghana’s leading educational hubs with institutions such as Presbyterian University College, Koforidua Technical University, and the University of Environment and Sustainable Development the Regional Coordinating Council has scaled up a mentorship programme now in its third year.
The initiative strategically divides the region into clusters, ensuring a wide reach across Krobo, Kwahu, Afram Plains, Kibi, Oda, and beyond. Through this approach, students are being exposed to real world career pathways, equipping them with the clarity needed to make informed academic and professional decisions.
“As a teacher, a mother, and a leader, I see mentorship as a responsibility. Every young person deserves a clear sense of direction,” she noted, describing herself proudly as a “mother of mentorship.”
Beyond education, the Minister’s agenda is deeply aligned with the broader national development vision under President John Dramani Mahama, with a strong emphasis on equitable infrastructure expansion.
Across all 33 districts of the region, a wave of development projects is underway transforming both educational and healthcare access.
“No district is being left behind. Development must be inclusive, visible, and impactful,” she stated.
Among the flagship interventions is the construction of Community based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, with each district set to receive at least two to three facilities. By the close of 2026, the region is projected to have over 100 new CHPS compounds, significantly improving primary healthcare delivery.
Simultaneously, nearly 100 new basic schools spanning kindergarten, primary, and junior high levels are under construction, signaling a long term investment in human capital development.
While the region continues to enjoy relative peace, the Minister acknowledged underlying security challenges, including illegal mining, chieftaincy disputes, and farmer herder conflicts particularly within the Afram Plains enclave.
In response, the government has deployed targeted security interventions, including military presence in high risk areas to deescalate tensions and protect livelihoods.
“We are confronting these challenges head on. Peace and development must go hand in hand,” she affirmed.
Environmental protection also remains a priority, with intensified efforts to safeguard the Atewa Forest Reserve from illegal mining activities that threaten biodiversity and water resources.
“The Eastern Region is stable and safe. Our systems are working, and we will continue to strengthen them,” she assured.
Addressing urban challenges, Hon. Awatey highlighted ongoing sanitation drives under the national clean up campaign, coupled with proactive measures to combat flooding through desilting and dredging of drainage systems.
Yet, beyond maintenance, her vision extends to beautification and identity.
In Koforidua fondly known as the “City of Flowers” plans are underway to launch a comprehensive city beautification project aimed at restoring its aesthetic appeal and reinforcing civic pride.
“We want Koforidua to truly reflect its name. This is not just beautification it is about identity, pride, and ownership,” she said.
With a leadership approach that blends empathy with execution, strategy with action, Hon. Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey is steering the Eastern Region toward a future defined by opportunity, resilience, and sustainable growth.
Her integrated focus on mentorship, infrastructure, and security signals more than policy it represents a bold commitment to reshaping the region into a model of development in Ghana and beyond.
“This is just the beginning. The Eastern Region is rising and we are building a future that leaves no one behind.”