Work Begins on stalled Sempe Basic School Project in Jamestown After 10-Year Delay

Construction has officially resumed on the abandoned Accra Sempe Basic School project in Jamestown, nearly a decade after work stalled due to lack of funds.

The Mayor of Accra, Mr. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, led dignitaries at a sod-cutting ceremony to hand over the site to the contractor for completion.

The project involves finishing a 40-unit classroom block meant to provide a safe learning environment for pupils in Sempe and surrounding communities in the Ododiodioo Constituency.

The old school structure was demolished to pave way for the redevelopment. However, construction stalled forcing pupils into temporary wooden structures, leading to absenteeism in the area.

Mr. Allotey said the school must be ready before the end of 2026 and  warned that the contract will be terminated and reassigned if the contractor fails to meet the deadline.

“This project is close to my heart. The people of Sempe have waited too long,” the Mayor said, adding that he believes in action, not empty promises.

He noted the project was initiated under former the Mayor, Mr. Alfred Oko Vanderpuije, who is now Ablekuma South Member of Parliament (MP).

He assured the people that he Assembly will closely monitor progress to avoid further delays.

The Mayor also disclosed that the AMA is pursuing completion of other stalled projects including Ayalolo Cluster of Schools, Makola 31 Clinic, Akotolante Library, Salaga Market, and a project at Private Odartey.

Odododiodioo MP,Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie. said the revival followed sustained engagements with the Ministry of Education, GETFund and the District Assemblies Common Fund.

He added that the completed school will have an ultra-modern computer lab to teach ICT, artificial intelligence and other modern subjects.

Former Mayor Vanderpuije said the return of President Mahama and the appointment of Mr. Allotey presented a new opportunity to finish the school and other abandoned projects in Accra.

Sempe Mantse, Nii Adote Otintor II, praised the government and AMA for the renewed commitment, adding that he had even suspended work on his palace to focus on getting the school completed.

“The people of Sempe and the wider Ga community deserve equitable development and quality education infrastructure,” he stated.

The contractor assured that the remaining works will be completed within the agreed timeframe.

Bala Ali, ISD