The  Penkwase astroturf project in the Sunyani East Constituency of the Bono Region has overcome hurdles and received approval to proceed after facing opposition from stakeholders, particularly the Barhamiya Islamic School, which led to a halt in construction activities on February 22, 2024.

Construction works on the seating area, VIP stand, and dressing room were brought to a standstill by a group purportedly representing the Dagomba tribe in the municipality, citing concerns about the project's location.

Following this, a meeting was convened on February 24, 2024, by the Municipal Chief Executive, Mr Ansu Kumi, with stakeholders of the school, including the Revered Dagomba Chief of Sunyani, leaders of the Board of the Bono Regional Islamic community, management of the Islamic Educational Unit, the Parents Association, the Headteacher, the Assembly Member of the Area, and others. 

They unanimously expressed their opposition to the project's location, citing potential adverse effects on the school.

In response, the MCE sought time to consult with the Member of Parliament for the Area, Mr Kwasi Ameyaw-Cheremeh, who initiated the project, to chart a way forward.

Despite numerous efforts by the MCE to persuade the aggrieved stakeholders to relent, no compromise was reached.

To address the impasse and ensure inclusivity in the project, the MCE, under the directive of the MP, visited the site with the contractors to negotiate a resolution. 

The following agreement was reached:

The seating area will be relocated behind the goalpost to the south, where there is ample space.

Construction work will resume on Friday, April 26, 2024.

The completion of the project is expected within 3-4 months, barring any further disruptions.

The main pitch is nearing completion, with the turf almost at carpeting level.

Acknowledgements were extended to all stakeholders for their patience, particularly the youth eagerly awaiting the facility's completion for its intended purposes.

In addition, developmental projects are ongoing in the Sunyani East Constituency