The Bui Power Authority (BPA) has begun disbursing the first phase of compensation to individuals whose properties were affected by the ongoing 50MWp Yendi Solar Power Project. A total of thirty-four (34) landowners, farmers, and tree owners are set to benefit from the compensation initiative.
To date, sixteen (16) beneficiaries have received payments, with the total compensation package amounting to approximately One Million, Five-Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, One-Hundred and Fifty-Eight Ghana Cedis, Fifteen Pesewas (GH₵ 1,518,158.15).
Speaking on behalf of the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Wumbilla Salifu, Director of Natural Resources at BPA, noted that an independent valuer from Lands Commission was engaged to assess crops, economic trees, and other assets located within the project’s right of way. He confirmed that the evaluation exercise had been successfully concluded, paving the way for compensation to proceed.
Mr. Salifu explained that the disbursement is being carried out in phases. This first phase, covers compensation for crops and economic trees. The second phase will focus on permanent structures and dwellings, plots of land, and other structures impacted by the project.
Addressing concerns raised by some affected persons, Mr. Salifu assured beneficiaries that BPA will continue to engage traditional authorities to resolve outstanding issues and ensure an equitable process for all stakeholders.
At a brief ceremony held on Thursday May 15 near the Project Site in Yendi, the Galgu Naa, Naa Ziblim Kassim Norgah, commended the Bui Power Authority for its laudable efforts. He emphasized the significant benefits that the project brings to Yendi and urged his people to remain welcoming and cooperative. The ceremony was also graced with the presence of Naa Abdulai Osan as well as a representative of Naa Shahadu Kamal, Sudu Iddrisu.
In support of BPA’s efforts, Mr. Edward Okantah, Head of Works at the Yendi Municipal Assembly, appealed to the local community to cooperate with BPA to protect and maintain the solar facility, which is poised to bring a massive boost to socio-economic activities in Yendi and surrounding areas. He also urged residents to respect the facility’s boundaries, especially in light of the compensation provided.
Beneficiaries of the compensation expressed their appreciation for BPA’s transparent and timely approach, commending the Authority for its commitment to fairness, dialogue, and community development.