The Presbyterian Nursing Training College in Bawku has reassured its students. Measures are being taken to resume operations. The college was shut down for security reasons on November 21, 2024.
During an interview with Citi News on April 8, 2025, Rev. James K. Awuni, the Chairman of the Upper Presbyterian Board, shared an update. He said that the official handling of the matter is now with the Upper East Regional Minister. It has also been passed to the Police Commander. They are expected to reach a decision soon.
Rev. Awuni stressed the urgent need to reopen, as it poses significant security concerns.
The declaration comes after students peacefully protested in Bawku on April 7, 2025. They took to the streets to demand the school’s reopening. They voiced their concerns about the extended closure negatively affecting their academic advancement and emotional state.
Rev. Awuni emphasized that the Board had officially requested the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to evaluate the present circumstances. They asked them to offer suggestions for moving forward.
“Because of the security issues in Bawku, we applied to the regional minister, who is the chairman of the regional security council, that we want to open the school, but due to the current tension in the town, we do not know what to do,” he explained.
Additionally, he mentioned they had informed him of their plans. They intend to bring the matter to the attention of the regional police commander. They have promised to finalize the security intelligence soon. They will advise us on how to proceed. We will receive a positive response from them soon regarding our next steps.
The West Gonja District in the Savannah Region has a new Municipal Chief Executive, 52-year-old professional teacher Yakubu Yussif Castro. President John Dramani Mahama has nominated him for the position.
The nominee hails from Busunu, a suburb of the municipality. He is celebrated in political circles as a talented grassroots politician.
He is a member of both the early cadres and the Democratic Youth League of Ghana (DYLG). He has been praised for his exceptional listening skills. His unwavering loyalty to the NDC party and his ability to bring people together are also commendable.
During his initial assignment to Pepuso, a suburb of Buipe, on 10th October 1994, Mr. Castro successfully merged his professional and political roles as he served as headteacher and the sole educator for four classes. As someone deeply rooted in the community, he excelled at integrating his career and political interests.
Despite his busy schedule, he accepted the role of polling station secretary for Pepuso. This area is now part of the Central Gonja District. He accepted the role to support his party.
After being moved back to his hometown of Busunu, he served as secretary for the Presbyterian Primary Temporary Polling Station. He also worked at the Busunu D/A Polling Station. He continued in this position. Then, he ran twice for the Damongo Constituency parliamentary primaries under the National Democratic Congress (NDC). However, he was unsuccessful in both attempts. He lost to Adam Mutawakilu, also known as Garlus. Adam is now the Managing Director of Ghana Water Company Limited.
Undeterred by his previous defeat, Mr. Castro persevered and ran for the constituency secretary position in Damongo. However, he was once again unsuccessful as Braimah Alhassan, the current party secretary, emerged as the victor.
He experienced defeat. Despite what the younger generation around him may say, it did not discourage him. He continues to support the NDC in the region.
Mr Yakubu Yussif Castro has an impressive 31 years of experience in the former Damongo District. This area now includes Central and North Gonja. He deeply understands the area. His expertise makes him the ideal candidate to navigate the complex political and chieftaincy climate in Damongo. In addition, he is well-equipped to tackle the recurring floods in Damongo and Busunu. He effectively addresses the needs and perspectives of the youth community.
Sabrina Dhowre Elba is a multi-faceted individual known for her work as an actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She serves as the Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). She champions causes such as sustainable development, women’s empowerment, and promoting ethical sourcing within the agricultural industry.
Sabrina’s most recent endeavour involved a trip to Northern Ghana with World Vision International. During her visit, she gained first-hand insight into the Women’s Shea groups and their efforts to promote sustainable practices.
In addition, she learned about Fair Trade’s purpose. It aims to support producers in developing nations. It also seeks to establish fair and long-lasting trade partnerships.
Sabrina’s trip to Ghana resulted from the collaboration between S’ABLE Labs, the wellness-oriented skincare company she co-owns, and World Vision. Both organisations are known for their emphasis on promoting sustainability and ethical business practices.
Sabrina aims to use this partnership to enhance awareness of the advantages of sustainable and ethical sourcing. This will ultimately support community growth and empowerment.
Working together towards a common goal: empowering communities through ethical sourcing.
For 75 years, World Vision has been a leading force in humanitarian efforts. It has devoted 45 of those years to helping Ghana communities.
The organisation’s mission is to address the underlying issues of poverty and injustice. It places a specific focus on children, families, and communities. By doing so, it aims to enable individuals to achieve their fullest potential.
World Vision collaborates with organisations such as Fairtrade and S’ABLE Labs. This ensures that vital resources are accessible for Women’s Shea Processing Groups. It recognizes and appreciates their role in global supply chains.
During her visit, Sabrina Elba expressed her belief in the strength of communities.
“Through our partnership with World Vision and Fairtrade, we can create a space where people not only benefit from ethical sourcing but where their work and culture are uplifted on a global stage.”…she stated.
Sabrina witnessed the traditional method of Shea production in Gbumgbum Yemo.
Shea butter is a key ingredient in numerous wellness and beauty items. Local women’s groups have obtained it. They have played a crucial role in upholding the legacy of shea harvesting for centuries.
Sabrina interacted with the women involved in the process. She gained knowledge about their obstacles. At the same time, she discovered methods to uphold the traditional approach to shea production.
Fairtrade certifications are a powerful tool for empowering producers. Sabrina’s trip to communities in Northern Ghana also involved gaining knowledge on Fairtrade certification in Malishegu. This has enabled the Women’s Shea Processing cooperatives to benefit from a fair price for their product. They can also invest in the development of their community.
By obtaining these certifications, the local workforce, particularly women, is empowered. This ensures they receive fair pay and can invest in their families and villages.
Sabrina emphasised that Fairtrade goes beyond just making profits.
“It’s about ensuring dignity, fairness, and sustainable livelihoods for the people who grow the ingredients we all love to use. By supporting ethical sourcing, we help create opportunities that lead to lasting change.”…She commented.
Improving Efficiency through Mechanized Shea Butter Processing
During her travels, Sabrina also stopped by Bugulung and gained insight into the process of mechanised shea butter production. Manual processing is still standard among women in the area. However, the introduction of mechanisation has dramatically enhanced the efficiency and output of shea butter.
Thanks to World Vision’s assistance, these women’s organisations have received the essential tools and training. This has improved their economic results. It has also enhanced their families’ health and education prospects.
The introduction of mechanisation in Shea butter production can significantly impact the local economy. It increases women’s earning potential. It also improves their children’s access to education and healthcare.
Sabrina’s keen support for environmental sustainability is evident. It aligns with World Vision’s continuous endeavours to assist communities. These communities are adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. Climate change poses a growing threat to agricultural livelihoods.
Creating a Connection between Buyers and Sellers
The collaboration between S’ABLE Labs and World Vision goes beyond product development. It aims to connect consumers with the genuine stories behind their purchases.
The collaboration seeks to avoid traditional influencer marketing. This type of marketing often encourages excessive consumption. Instead, it highlights the positive effects of ethical sourcing and the resulting benefits for communities.
Sabrina and World Vision are choosing to shift their focus towards immersive storytelling. This involves using genuine visuals and narratives. These tools effectively depict the experiences of women’s groups in Northern Ghana. They also emphasise the significant impact fair trade has on their accomplishments.
Sabrina is utilising her platform. She is collaborating with sustainability influencers. She is shedding light on the significance of ethical sourcing. She also highlights the human repercussions involved in each transaction.
It’s not solely about purchasing an item but rather about supporting individuals, societies, and communities that deserve recognition and respect.
Taking a broader view towards the future: adopting a comprehensive approach to overall wellness.
Partnering with us is an essential move towards advancing S’ABLE Labs’ goal. We aim to offer sustainable and ethically sourced wellness goods. We also promote the significance of fair trade practices.
World Vision’s extensive network contributes significantly. Additionally, the dedicated efforts of communities in Ghana play a crucial role. As a result, Sabrina is confident. She believes that many individuals will appreciate the importance. These people will recognize the value of making sustainable and empowering purchasing choices.
As Sabrina concludes her journey, her message is clear: “We are all interconnected, and the choices we make can have a lasting impact on communities far beyond our own.”
“Ethical sourcing is not just a trend—it’s a responsibility we all share. Through partnerships like this, we can create a more sustainable, just, and inclusive world.”
By teaming up, we demonstrate the impact of community-driven initiatives. We also emphasise the significance of ethical commerce in promoting a more enduring future.
These initiatives have the potential to create a limitless positive global impact.
The Upper West Regional Police Command has reported the capture of an individual responsible for a string of motorcycle thefts. They also handled the trial and conviction of the individual.
Nawaf Abdulai, aged 20, was arrested for a robbery that took place on March 6th, 2025.
Abdulai allegedly stole two motorbikes. His accomplice Awal Abbas, who is currently at large, was with him. The motorbikes were a Haojue and a Luojia, with registration numbers M-21-449 UW and M-17-4607 UW.
Abdulai was swiftly arrested at his residence on March 8th 2025, after a prompt police response. In the course of the investigation that followed, he admitted to committing the crime. The case was brought before the Wa Circuit Court, and on April 7th 2025, a firm ruling was made.
His Lordship Jonathan Avoogo, presiding over the court, declared Abdulai guilty and ordered him to serve 15 years in prison. This ruling highlights the court’s determination to enforce severe punishments for criminal behavior and uphold public tranquility.
The police have released the convict’s photo, citing his legal conviction as valid under Ghanaian law.
According to the police statement, the court’s ruling resolves the case. It serves as a warning to those who engage in comparable behaviors.
The Upper West Regional Police Command praised the hard work of its officers. They also appreciated the community’s support in prosecuting the case successfully.
The Command reiterated its dedication to protecting the region and encouraged ongoing cooperation from the community.
Ongoing efforts are being made to apprehend the second suspect, Awal Abass. The police have urged anyone with pertinent information to come forth.
Convicted of motorbike robbery in the Upper West Region, a criminal has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars.
The Upper West Regional Police Command has confirmed that they apprehended a perpetrator. He was tried and convicted of multiple motorcycle thefts within the area.
Nawaf Abdulai, a 20-year-old convict, was arrested for his involvement in a robbery on March 6th, 2025.
According to reports, Abdulai and an accomplice allegedly stole a Haojue and a Luojia motorcycle from their victims. Awal Abbas, who is now still at large, was involved. The motorcycles had the registration numbers M-21-449 UW and M-17-4607 UW.
Thanks to a quick police reaction, Abdulai was apprehended at his home on March 8th, 2025. After the investigation, he admitted to committing the offence. The case was then taken to the Wa Circuit Court, where a final judgement was made on April 7th, 2025.
In his ruling, His Lordship Jonathan Avoogo emphasized the judiciary’s commitment to upholding public order. He also highlighted imposing severe penalties for criminal acts. He sentenced Abdulai to 15 years’ imprisonment.
The authorities have shared the offender’s picture, stating that his legal conviction is justified under Ghanaian law.
According to the police statement, the court’s ruling resolves the case and also warns individuals involved in comparable actions.
The Upper West Regional Police Command praised its officers for their hard work. They also appreciated the general public’s support. This collaboration contributed to the successful prosecution of the case.
The Command restated its dedication to protecting the region and called for ongoing community cooperation.
The search for the second suspect, Awal Abass, is still underway. Authorities urge individuals with pertinent details to step forward.
The state of football in the Tolon District is a cause for concern. The once-thriving sport is experiencing a significant decline, with alarming trends that threaten the future of football in the district. As we ponder the question, “Are we going or are we coming?” it’s essential to examine the root causes of this decline and spark a collective effort to revitalize Tolon District football.
The Lack of Representation in Division Two and Three Leagues. A stark reality is the absence of a Division Two club in the Tolon District as only club rep Nyankpala Shooting Stars has just been relegated back to the district division three league. This is a clear indication of the district’s inability to compete at higher levels because we no longer have a club representating the district at the regional level. Furthermore, only two clubs will participate in the upcoming 2024/2025 Division Three league season, a decline as compared to last season where 4 clubs participated in the league. Why are they numbers not increasing but rather reduced? The big question is that this limited representation undermines the district’s potential for growth and development in football. While we hear allegations of favouritism against some Division Three clubs from some communities in the district for the reduction in the number for division Three clubs in this year’s league and think there may be more to it that just the alleged favouritism but that’s another day’s discussions.
Juvenile Football in Shambles! The situation is equally dire at the juvenile level. Only four clubs or so have registered with the necessary codes (FIFA CONNECT SYSTEM), and even these clubs have few or no players registered in the system. This scarcity of young talent and organized juvenile clubs jeopardizes the future of football in the Tolon District. As i commend the Tolon District Football (TDFA) and the juvenile committee chairman person and his members for have recorded a huge number of new juvenile teams in this year’s league, I would also like the admonished the absence of some well established juvenile clubs in this year’s league, I suggest there should be more collective effort from leadership and club administrators to bring ever club on board.
A Troubling Observation: Absence from Regional Teams. A disturbing fact is that not even one player from the Tolon District is included in the Northern Regional U-15 and U-17 boys teams. This raises serious questions about the district’s ability to identify, develop, and showcase young talent.
Systemic Issues and Lack of Accountability. Whilst the district football association is making efforts to support clubs, particularly in obtaining FIFA codes, most clubs and administrators are not making sufficient use of these resources. This lack of accountability and ineffective management is exacerbating the decline of Tolon District football.
If left unaddressed, the decline of Tolon District football will have far-reaching consequences:
Loss of Talent: The district risks losing its most promising young players to other regions or countries with more developed football infrastructures.
Social Consequences: Football plays a vital role in promoting social cohesion, discipline, and healthy lifestyles. A decline in football participation will have negative social implications for the district’s youth.
Reversing the decline of Tolon District football requires immediate attention and collective effort. Stakeholders, including:
Local Authorities: Provide infrastructure support, resources, and policies that promote football development.
Football Administrators: Develop and implement effective strategies for talent identification, coaching, and club development while collaborating to bring investors on board.
Community Leaders: Mobilize support, encourage participation, and facilitate partnerships with local businesses and organizations. Parents and Guardians: Encourage and support their children’s participation in football, ensuring their safety and well-being and the provision of the necessary training kits for their children. Clubs and Administrators: Take responsibility for utilizing resources effectively, developing young talent, and promoting football development in the district.
Together, we can revitalize Tolon District football and restore its former glory. The question remains: Are we going to stand by and watch the decline continue, or are we going to take action and ensure a brighter future for football in the Tolon District? The choice is ours.
Godwin A Apullah (Coach Ambassador) Freelance journalist Club Administrators Head Coach of SARI FC Nyankpala-Tamale NR 0245258551
Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, have risen in the most recent FIFA Rankings for April 2025.
The latest rankings show that Ghana’s Black Stars have climbed to 76th place in the world. This is one spot higher than their previous ranking. The previous ranking had remained unchanged since November 2024.
Ghana’s recent positive development is fueled by its remarkable performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With 15 points, it currently holds first place in Group I.
The Black Stars secured victories against Chad and Madagascar. These were their first wins since they triumphed over the Central African Republic in June of 2024.
As a result, they surpassed Israel in the rankings, as Israel fell two spots.
Nonetheless, the Black Stars’ position on the African continent remains unaltered, ranking 14th.
As more FIFA World Cup qualification games approach, Ghana is determined to maintain its momentum. The team aims to strive for a higher ranking in the upcoming months.
The Black Stars are set to participate in the Unity Cup, a four-nation tournament scheduled for May 2025. This will prepare them for September’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali.
President John Dramani Mahama during a Thank-You durbar at the Jubilee Park in Bolgatanga reiterated a manifesto and campaign pledge he made to the people of the Upper East Region to construct an airport for them if he won the 2024 general elections. He announced that he had directed the MD of the Ghana Airport Company to source for funding under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. “We intend to do this under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, in conjunction with the gold mining companies in this region, since this will allow them also to airlift their gold bullion safely to Accra, directly from the Upper East Region.” President Mahama added to the delight of the people.
This announcement created the much-needed euphoria among many citizens and business actors who travel to the region to conduct business operations. Before this euphoria could settle down, I chanced upon an opinion piece that sought to question the economic and commercial viability of the long-awaited project. The writer’s opinion piece was one-sided, poorly researched and must be rejected by the government and the private sector in favour of the airport project.
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The Financial Reality of Regional Airports
The writer failed to appreciate that airports are not only constructed because of the direct profits these can accrue to the state but also because they impact diverse aspects of the local economy by creating jobs, improving productivity, and enhancing economic growth.
The writer also failed to recognize that a PPP model would be deployed in the construction of the airport. This means that construction costs would not be borne by only the state but also the private sector. Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd is the third largest Mine in Ghana currently with over $700 million dollar investment in the project in the Talensi district of the region.
Public-Private Partnership: A Risky Bet?
Private investors are profit-driven, and if the numbers do not add up, their interest in the project may be limited or entirely nonexistent.
The writer’s argument is dead on arrival as there is already an established interest in the project. A simple Google search would have prevented this moot question. Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd made their intentions to collaborate with the state in a PPP arrangement public in October 2023. Graphic Online reported on October 5, 2025 that the Project Manager, Mr. Steve Ofori-Asamoah disclosed the company plans to collaborate with the government to construct the airport. Mr. Ofori-Asamoah added that the ‘’company had already approved an initial amount to kick-start the project’’. Therefore, what really held back the start of the project was the previous government’s inaction towards the project and not a lack of private investors to collaborate with the government as the writer sought to create.
Questions of Demand and Feasibility
How many domestic airlines currently operate in Ghana, and how many would be willing to expand their services to Bolgatanga?
The Upper East Region is the furthest region from the national capital, Accra. It is a region that borders Togo and Burkina Faso. It’s the region easily accessed by Mali and Niger. The economic activity between Ghana and the recently formed Alliance of Sahel States in particular cannot be underestimated. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, in 2023, over 25% of Ghana exports to Africa went to Burkina Faso (12.6%), Togo (6.2%), Mali (4.7%) and Niger (1.8%). The Upper East region is the main region through which these goods and services are exported to these countries. An airport in the region would ease travel between Ghana and these countries and promote intra-African trade.
In fact, a good number of business travelers from these countries have already been flying from Tamale to Accra instead of from their capital towns to Accra. The main reason is that international flights from their countries to Accra are sometimes about 200 per cent more expensive than the domestic flights between Tamale and Accra. An airport in Bolgatanga would therefore attract more passengers they would no longer travel between 2 to 3 hours from Bolgatanga to Tamale. This will expand economic activities for the local economy and boost revenue for Ghana.
What is the anticipated volume of air traffic to the proposed airport?
In view of the fact that Bolgatanga is the furthest region from Accra, the risks involved and time spent (at least 2 hours) travelling by road from Tamale, air throughput between Accra and Bolgatanga is expected to be high. I will dare say that this throughput will likely exceed the current volumes between Accra and other regional capitals. The existence of the mining companies and the frequency of travels by direct employees and mining support service companies will contribute significantly to increase air traffic at the airport in Bolgatanga.
Can the majority of people in the region afford the cost of domestic flights?
I am really wondering why this question is relevant. So I will reserve my comments because I may get emotional if I make an attempt to respond as I see it as derogatory.
Were comprehensive feasibility and needs assessment studies conducted?
Yes. There have been different studies conducted by different governments. All the studies showed that the airport is feasible.
The Alternative: Revamping the Bolgatanga Tomato Factory
President Mahama also made his intentions in the 2024 Manifesto clear as regards industrialization in the region. He pledged to revamp the Pwalugu Tomato Factory and the Zuarungu Meat Factory. The impression being created by the writer to suggest that the construction of an airport is a zero-sum project to any other project in the region is far-fetched and unfair to the facts known to many.
Conclusion
An airport project for the people of the Upper East Region is a foregone conclusion. It has the buy-in of many relevant stakeholders including the Regional House of Chiefs. The airport would not only be commercially viable but will also contribute to incentivize the local economy, create jobs, improve productivity, generate revenue and enhance economic growth. The airport project remains one of the viable low-hanging fruits we must grab, as there are private sector operators who are ready from 2023 to collaborate with the government. We cannot compare the cost of an airport to the cost of a railway line from Accra to Bolgatanga, as the writer wants us to believe that is rather a viable option. The writer is not pragmatic in recommending the construction of a railway line from Accra to Burkina Faso during the period of an IMF program.
In addition, the construction of an airport does not also mean that the region cannot have any other projects. Indeed, there are campaign and manifesto promises to complete the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulimokom road, construct the Bolgatanga-Wa road, and construct the Chuchuliga-Sandema-Fumbisi road among others. The revamping of the meat and tomato factories is also a commitment of the government.
What we need now is for citizens of the region in particular to rally support from diverse stakeholders to keep knocking on the doors of the President to find the required resources to execute these projects and not seek to use an opinion piece to deceive people.
According to the World Bank, Ghana is 72nd in terms of vulnerability to climate change. It is also commonly known as a highly religious nation. Yet, according to Greenfaith Africa, relying solely on prayer will not be sufficient to combat climate change and its difficulties. Action must also be taken.
The effects of climate change are clear in all corners of the country. Temperatures in northern Ghana are now higher than they used to be. The region is now facing erratic weather conditions, hindering efforts to achieve food security. Coastal areas are also witnessing rising sea levels, resulting in the displacement of homes.
In light of this, GreenFaith Africa-Bolgatanga Circle has presented a petition to the government. They are urging swift measures to tackle these issues.
According to the organisation’s assessment of the Upper East Region, climate change impacts women and farmers, making communities more susceptible.
It is disturbing that the region known for its vibrant agriculture is now grappling with erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells, rising temperatures and heat waves, reliance on polluting energy sources, and deforestation.
GreenFaith Africa-Bolgatanga Circle recently submitted a petition to the government via the Upper East Regional Minister. The organisation emphasised clean energy investment for rural communities, supporting women-led clean cooking programs and safeguarding farmlands and water sources. Additionally, they stressed the importance of ensuring that climate funds directly benefit rural communities.
Before presenting the Petition last Friday, members of the Circle took part in a Climate Walk. They held placards with powerful messages such as “Your food, your future: demand clean energy.” It was emphasised that communities must take charge of the climate movement. It was also reminded that God has entrusted us with the earth, and it is our responsibility to protect it. Simply praying for change is not enough; action must be taken now. The President of the Bolgatanga Circle, Felicia Baan, urged immediate measures to address climate change.
While we commend the government for appointing a Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability, we urge bolder action: Prioritise investment in clean energy for rural communities —expand solar-powered irrigation systems and renewable energy for food production to reduce reliance on climate-vulnerable rain-fed farming. Support women-led clean cooking initiatives —Provide subsidies for clean cookstoves and alternative fuels to reduce indoor pollution and save women’s time. Stop destructive energy policies – Shift funds from fossil fuel expansion into renewable energy solutions that benefit smallholder farmers and local economies, protect farmlands and water bodies: Enforce strict laws against deforestation and land degradation while promoting agroecology and tree-planting initiatives, ensure climate funds reach rural farmers -Allocate resources for smallholder farmers to access climate-resilient seeds, irrigation, and sustainable farming practices. Climate change is not just a government issue. It is a collective responsibility. Every Ghanaian must commit to protecting our environment and shifting toward clean, fair, and sustainable energy solutions.
Regional Minister Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadr received the Petition. The regional economic planning officer and Acting Regional Coordinating Director addressed the topic of Climate Change. He emphasised its significance to the government. He expressed confidence that necessary actions will be taken to address this pressing issue.
