The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially commissioned the Buem Ultra Centre in Guaman in the Jasikan Municipality of the Oti Region, marking a significant step toward improving road safety administration and service delivery in the enclave.
Delivering the welcome address, Operations Manager Francis Asuka Boakye described the new facility as a major step in fulfilling the Authority’s mandate of protecting roads across Ghana through efficient licensing and vehicle registration services.
The ultra-modern edifice was financed and constructed by Mr. Osei Yaw, whose contribution was widely applauded at the ceremony for supporting public service expansion in the region.
The Benkumhene of the Buem Traditional Area and Chief of Guaman, Nana Obeng Offori Appel VI, assured the DVLA and other stakeholders of the traditional authority’s full support to ensure smooth operations of the facility.
Municipal Chief Executive for Jasikan, Parke Davies Magyigbe, said the commissioning demonstrates that Buem and Jasikan are on a steady path of growth. He noted that for years, residents had to travel long distances to access DVLA services, spending both time and money. According to him, the establishment of the centre will create direct and indirect employment opportunities while boosting economic activity within the municipality.
The Oti Regional Minister, John Kwadwo Gyapong, described the project as a shining example of how private sector collaboration can drive development for the people of Ghana. He cautioned motorists against failing to renew their documents on time and warned that enforcement measures would be intensified to deal with defaulters in order to enhance road safety. He subsequently commissioned the facility.
Minister for Sports and Recreation and Member of Parliament for Buem, Kofi Iddie Adams, emphasized that leadership decisions can significantly influence development. He indicated that sustained advocacy and engagement contributed to the establishment of the centre, urging staff to deliver quality services and refrain from extorting customers. He revealed that several millions of cedis were invested in the project and stressed the need for professionalism and integrity in its operations.
Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, explained that the facility will eliminate the frequent excuse of long-distance travel for DVLA services in the Oti Region. He disclosed that Buem is the first area in the region to receive a DVLA office and credited the persistent efforts of the Buem MP for the achievement.
Mr. Kotey further revealed that within one year under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, 13 DVLA offices have been commissioned nationwide. He also announced reforms including the introduction of embedded chip number plates to curb robbery and enhance vehicle identification. Buem will now have its own designated private vehicle registration code, “BG”, meaning Buem Guaman.
Additionally, the DVLA will introduce biometric driver’s licences with instant card printing for renewals, while new applicants will continue to go through the standard three-month processing period.
The commissioning is expected to stimulate further development in Guaman and its surrounding communities, with expectations that projects such as the proposed Buem University will move closer to realization.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
