Birifoh outdoors new chief: Naa Victor Gandaa V outlines vision for security, education and tourism

The chiefs and residents of the Birifoh Traditional Area, situated within the Lawra Municipality, recently concluded a grand and vibrant ceremony to officially designate their new divisional chief, Naa Debomo Victor Gandaa V. This momentous occasion marked the conclusion of a lengthy wait following the departure of the previous ruler.

The significant event took place at the Birifoh Naa's Palace forecourt, where hundreds of dignitaries, government officials, traditional leaders, and citizens from across the municipality convened to pay their respects.

During the ceremony, Naa Victor Gandaa V, speaking in a speech delivered by his secretary, Charles Jilinku, formally committed to upholding the Lawra Traditional Council's interests and unveiled a detailed development plan centered on border security, education, water supply, rural electrification, and heritage conservation. The chief had previously disclosed that he had allocated 42 acres of land to the Ghana Immigration Service for the purpose of constructing a training school.

He reiterated the critical need to control the numerous unauthorized routes that traverse the border between Ghana and Burkina Faso, in order to combat cross-border drug trafficking and illicit trade. Naa Victor Gandaa V underscored the importance of addressing the issue of drug addiction, stating, "The key area that I want to tackle as a chief is to see how best we can stop people getting into drugs."

He further explained that there are approximately eight to nine unapproved border crossings, through which individuals and goods are entering and exiting, bringing with them items that pose a threat. Consequently, he generously offered a portion of his land to enable the security agencies to monitor and regulate all unauthorized border crossings.

Aside from security concerns, Naa Victor Gandaa V expressed his desire for infrastructure improvements at local educational institutions. He appealed to the government and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to construct a security fence encircling Birifoh Senior High School, in order to safeguard students and school property.

Additionally, the new chief urged authorities to assist in the establishment of a boarding Technical Institute in Birifoh, with the aim of expanding access to educational opportunities for nearby communities.