Otumfuo inaugurates streetlight assembling plant
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has inaugurated a streetlight assemblying plant and electrical training centre, at Adarko-Jachie, near Ejisu in the Ashanti Region.
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The Prefos Limited plant is expected to reduce the importation of streetlights by the government.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Asantehene said the establishment of the plant was a good sign of private participation in the creation of jobs for the youth.
He said the Manhyia Palace did not work in the interest of any particular political party but was concerned about development in the region.
He said the country could develop only when the government recognised the needs, efforts and contributions of the private sector towards job creation and employment opportunities.
The Asantehene underscored the need for the government to institute special incentives for local private companies by granting tax reliefs to them.
He said a number of Ghanaian enterprises and companies had folded up due to lack of protection by the government.
Former President John A. Kufuor, in his contribution, said the country could not develop without adequate electricity supply.
He, therefore, stressed the need for effective measures to boost energy to enhance the development of industries and the economy.
Dr Samuel Sarpong, the Ashanti Regional Minister, said the government was prepared to support and partner the private sector to protect industries in the region to boost industrialisation there.
He called on district assemblies to patronise products from Prefos Limited to ensure job creation and the sustainability of the company.
In his welcome address, Mr Alexie K. Fosu, the Managing Director of Prefos Limited, said the company was committed to partnering the assemblies to improve streetlighting in the country, as well as offer training to electrical engineers.