Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, Nii Dowuona said: “We have also performed the necessary customary rites for the clearing of the land by the anchor developer to commence work.”

He said the Ministry had actively engaged both Osu and Gbese stools before Cabinet gave approval for the implementation of the MIP in August 2014. He said there had been series of meetings between the previous Minister, the current Minister and the Technical officers and both Osu and Gbese stools.

“We have received letters from the Ministry giving promise to the fulfilment of the continuous engagement and signing of memorandum of understanding, and so all citizens must come together to support both Osu and Gbese stools, and the government to successfully implement the project,” he said.

The Osu Mantse noted that both stools were committed to the project because of the immense benefits associated with it, including the development of the beach area and its environs as well as preservation of cultural sites.He said the creation of jobs, training of indigenes to work in the tourism and arts, culture industry, generation of income for unskilled and skilled workers, construction of social projects, payment of royalties as well as establishment of education fund for both communities are were of the benefits to be derived from the project.

Nii Dowuona said all concerns in regard to the project must be channelled through both the Osu and Gbese Traditional Councils for redress, including suggestions and contributions. He called on the citizens and other stakeholders to adhere to the ban on drumming and noise making to usher in the annual Homowo (Hooting at hunger) festival.