President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that the municipalities of Ho and Hohoe have been earmarked for elevation to metropolitan status as part of the government’s broader decentralisation and urban development agenda.

The president made this announcement during the sod-cutting ceremony for the Ho Oxygen City Affordable Housing Project, being developed under the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) in partnership with government and private sector stakeholders. The event marked a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to promote planned urban growth and expand access to affordable housing in the Volta Region.

According to President Mahama, the proposed upgrade of Ho and Hohoe reflects their growing population, expanding economic activities, and strategic importance within the regional and national development framework.

He noted that metropolitan status would strengthen local governance structures, improve service delivery, and enhance the capacity of the assemblies to plan and manage urban development more effectively.

The president stated that decentralisation remains a key pillar of government policy, aimed at bringing development closer to the people. 

He said the elevation of selected municipalities to metropolitan status would attract increased public and private investment, create employment opportunities, and accelerate infrastructure development, particularly in housing, roads, sanitation, and social services.

President Mahama described the Oxygen City Housing Project, as a flagship intervention designed to address the housing deficit while promoting orderly and sustainable urban expansion. He indicated that the project would provide modern, affordable homes supported by essential infrastructure and services, setting a new standard for urban development outside the Greater Accra Region.

The Ho Oxygen City project is the first master-planned city initiative by TDC outside Tema and is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the Volta Region. It is also anticipated to stimulate local businesses, create jobs for artisans and professionals, and enhance the overall living standards of residents.

President Mahama commended traditional authorities, local government officials, and private sector partners for their collaboration and support, stressing that inclusive partnerships were critical to the success of large-scale development projects. He urged residents to support the initiative and safeguard the project to ensure its long-term benefits.