The Justice and Security Sub-Committee of the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly has called for broad and urgent stakeholder consultation over the ongoing construction of a telecommunications mast by African Towers at the Koforidua-Kumasi Lorry Station.
The call follows growing concerns and protests by some drivers, traders and other users of the lorry station over the location of the mast and its potential impact on livelihoods, safety and the use of public space.
In a press release issued on August 28, 2026,by the Sub-Committee of the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly and signed by Hon. Citizen Tetteh, chairman and Assembly member for Two Streams Electoral Area,stated that the Sub-Committee acknowledged the importance of improved telecommunications infrastructure but stressed that development projects affecting identifiable groups must be accompanied by meaningful consultation.
The telecommunications mast project reportedly commenced after the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly granted the necessary permit. The facility is expected to strengthen weak mobile network signals and improve internet connectivity in the area, including signals originating from the Obuotabiri Mountain.
However, the Justice and Security Sub-Committee said concerns surrounding the project require what it described as a “calm, transparent and inclusive institutional response.”
Call for Stakeholder Engagement
The Sub-Committee called for a stakeholder engagement involving the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly, Assembly and Unit Committee Members, African Towers and its technical representatives, transport operators, driver unions, traders, traditional and community leaders, affected residents and businesses, as well as relevant planning, environmental and regulatory authorities.
According to the Committee, the purpose of the consultation should not be to obstruct telecommunications development but rather to address legitimate concerns and promote understanding among all parties.
“The purpose of the consultation should not be to frustrate telecommunications development, but to create a common understanding of the project, address legitimate concerns, clarify misconceptions and explore practical measures to minimise any adverse impact on the operations of the lorry station and surrounding community,” the statement said.
Concerns Over Public Space and Livelihoods
The Committee noted that the Koforidua-Kumasi Lorry Station serves as a major transportation and commercial hub for commuters, drivers, traders and businesses.
It therefore urged authorities and the telecommunications company to examine concerns surrounding the allocation and use of space at the facility.
The Sub-Committee said stakeholders must determine whether the current arrangement adequately considers transportation activities, trading operations, pedestrian movement, emergency access and other essential uses of the station.
It added that where reasonable adjustments could be made without affecting the technical objectives of the project, such options should be openly discussed.
Health and Safety Concerns
Addressing concerns about the possible health effects of telecommunications infrastructure, the Sub-Committee cautioned against presenting unverified claims as facts.
It, however, said public concerns should also not be ignored.
“We wish to emphasise that no unverified health claims should be presented as facts. At the same time, concerns expressed by members of the public should not be dismissed,” the statement noted.
The Committee therefore called on relevant technical and regulatory authorities to provide clear information on safety standards, exposure limits, compliance requirements, inspection procedures and monitoring arrangements governing telecommunications masts.
It said such information should form part of the stakeholder engagement to enable the public to make informed decisions based on credible technical information rather than rumours or speculation.
Permit Does Not Replace Engagement
The Justice and Security Sub-Committee acknowledged that the New Juaben South Municipal Assembly had granted a permit for the project and said the approval must be respected.
However, it stressed that regulatory approval and community engagement must work together.
“The granting of a permit should not prevent the Assembly, the developer and affected stakeholders from engaging constructively to address emerging concerns and ensure that the project is implemented in a manner that promotes public confidence,” the Committee stated.
It consequently urged African Towers, the Municipal Assembly and affected groups to prioritise dialogue rather than confrontation.
The Committee appealed to drivers, traders, residents and other stakeholders to remain calm and peaceful and use established institutional channels to present their grievances.
It also encouraged African Towers and relevant authorities to demonstrate openness and responsiveness in dealing with concerns raised by the public.
“Our collective objective should be to achieve a solution that balances improved telecommunications connectivity, public safety, efficient use of public space, protection of livelihoods and peaceful coexistence,” the statement said.
The Justice and Security Sub-Committee said it was ready to support constructive dialogue among the parties to ensure a peaceful resolution of the concerns.
“We strongly believe that development should bring people together, not divide them,” the Committee stated, adding that broad consultation, transparency and responsible engagement were essential to building public confidence and promoting sustainable development in the New Juaben South Municipality.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com
