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A middle-aged woman and her two children were trapped inside their home for close to three hours after a massive fig tree toppled during a windstorm. They sealed off the main entrance of their building in Wa, Upper West Region.

The uprooted tree, brought down by a violent storm, completely blocked all accessible exits, leaving the family stranded and unable to leave the house. Desperate for help, they contacted emergency services, friends, and relatives. A family member eventually came to their rescue, managing to clear a path and free the trapped occupants.

In response to the incident, Wa Municipal Chief Executive Issah Nurah Danwanaa visited the site and disclosed that the assembly works with relevant agencies to identify and remove aged and potentially hazardous trees throughout the municipality. This move, he said, is aimed at preventing similar accidents in the future.

He added that the municipality has been hit by a series of intense windstorms over the past month, which have caused several large trees to fall, resulting in property damage estimated in the thousands of Ghana cedis.

JoyNews’ Upper West Regional correspondent, Rafik Salam, captured the dramatic rescue live and was present at the scene as events unfolded.

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Savanna News

Teenage Pregnancy: A Call for Urgent Action to Address Intricacies in Upper East

Midwife Mary Azika has raised the alarm over the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, emphasizing the severe complications that pregnant teenagers face. She explained that the reproductive system of adolescents is not fully developed, making them more vulnerable to pregnancy-related health issues.

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The Impact of Teenage Pregnancy on Health

Midwife Mary Azika has raised the alarm over the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, emphasizing the severe complications that pregnant teenagers face. She explained that the reproductive system of adolescents is not fully developed, making them more vulnerable to pregnancy-related health issues.

Teenage girls, she noted, often suffer from life-threatening complications, especially during labour, due to the immaturity of their reproductive systems. The challenges are intensified when young girls, who are not fully mature, attempt to carry a pregnancy. These pregnancies often come with a range of problems, making them more challenging to manage.

Complications During Pregnancy and Labor

Azika further pointed out that even mature women struggle with pregnancy, highlighting the additional risks for teenagers. She explained that while hospitals are equipped to manage teenage pregnancies, complications can still arise. In cases where the girl is unable to deliver naturally, a Cesarean section (CS) is sometimes the only option.

The situation worsens when young pregnant girls do not seek medical help. Many do not visit healthcare facilities for regular check-ups, such as antenatal and clinical checks, which increases the risks associated with pregnancy.

Call for Action to Address the Menace

Azika urged authorities to take decisive steps to address the growing issue of teenage pregnancy. She proposed several solutions, including raising the age for sexual consent and implementing comprehensive sex education from an early age.

She countered the misconception that sex education encourages immorality, stating that proper education helps protect young girls from unsafe sex and its potential consequences, including pregnancy and diseases. While she advocates for abstinence, she emphasized that teaching safe sex practices is crucial for those who cannot abstain, ensuring they are not putting their lives at risk.

Pregnancy Among Schoolgirls: A Growing Concern

Azika’s comments came amid a recent revelation that 38 pregnant girls and nursing mothers are registered to sit the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the Upper East Region. Abraham Giba Adoctor, the Regional Examination Coordinator for the Ghana Education Service (GES), revealed that 17 of these candidates are nursing mothers, while 21 are visibly pregnant.

A Collective Effort Needed

Azika concluded by calling for a collective approach to tackle teenage pregnancy. She stressed the importance of addressing the issue holistically, with cooperation from both the government and the community, to safeguard the health and future of young girls.

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Savanna News

Scale Up Investment in Soybeans Production to Drive Economic Growth – Prof. Adjei-Nsiah

Professor Samuel Adjei-Nsiah, former Head of the Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Centre at Kade, has called on the government to increase its investment in soybean production, particularly in the Northern Region. He emphasised that soybeans have immense potential not only to boost economic growth but also to create employment and enhance food security.

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Professor Samuel Adjei-Nsiah Talking on Soybeans

Boosting Economic Growth Through Soybeans

Professor Samuel Adjei-Nsiah, former Head of the Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Centre at Kade, has called on the government to increase its investment in soybean production, particularly in the Northern Region. He emphasised that soybeans have immense potential not only to boost economic growth but also to create employment and enhance food security.

Challenges Faced by Soybean Farmers

Speaking at an inaugural lecture at the University of Ghana (UG), Legon, Prof. Adjei-Nsiah highlighted several challenges faced by soybean farmers in the region. These include poor soil fertility, climate variability, limited adoption of yield-enhancing technologies, and insufficient access to mechanisation services. These issues have contributed to the low levels of soybean production in the Northern Region.

Export Concerns and Market Imbalance

Prof. Adjei-Nsiah also expressed concern over the quantity of soybeans being exported from Ghana. In 2023, approximately 47,230 metric tonnes of soybeans were exported to countries such as the USA, India, Turkey, Canada, and Singapore through official channels. However, he noted that unofficial exports through porous borders were likely double that amount. He pointed out that 72% of the exports went to the USA, which produces 100 million metric tonnes of genetically modified (GMO) soybeans annually. This raised questions about why the USA would import organic soybeans from Ghana when it already produces its own.

The Value of Organic Beans

According to Prof. Adjei-Nsiah, the soybeans produced in Ghana are organic and non-GMO, in contrast to the genetically modified (GMO) soybeans produced in countries like the USA. He argued that while the USA processes its GMO soybeans and exports them to Ghana, Ghana is exporting its organic beans to the same countries without receiving premium prices for them. He emphasised the need for Ghana to prioritise the consumption of its organic soybeans and reduce its reliance on imports.

Soybeans as an Import Substitute

Prof. Adjei-Nsiah suggested that soybeans could serve as an adequate substitute for Ghana’s imports. He highlighted its potential in the production of poultry feed and feed for other animals, which could reduce the country’s reliance on imported animal feed and enhance local agricultural productivity.

Research Advancements in Soybean Production

Over the past decade, Prof. Adjei-Nsiah and his research team have worked tirelessly to improve soybean production in the Northern Region. Through capacity-building programs for farmers and extension agents, as well as participatory research and on-farm trials, they have developed drought-tolerant, high-yielding, and disease-resistant soybean varieties. Furthermore, they have used Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools to provide smallholder farmers with real-time agronomic advice, weather updates, and market information.

Recognition for Contributions

Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of UG, Legon, commended Prof. Adjei-Nsiah and his research team for their significant contributions to enhancing soybean production in the Northern Region. Their efforts have not only improved local soybean yields but also helped strengthen the agricultural sector as a whole.

The Call for Strategic Investment

In conclusion, Prof. Adjei-Nsiah urged the government to increase its investment in soybean production as a means of driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving food security in the Northern Region. He emphasised the need for strategic measures to address the challenges faced by farmers and to maximise the country’s potential in soybean production.

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Savanna News

GTA to Commemorate PANAFEST and Emancipation Day 2025 at Pikworo Slave Camp

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Upper East Region’s Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), the Regional House of Chiefs, and the PANAFEST/Emancipation Secretariat, has announced plans to celebrate this year’s PANAFEST and Emancipation Day. The event, taking place from July 18th to 19th, 2025, will be held at the historic Pikworo Slave Camp in Nania-Paga, a site deeply rooted in Ghana’s history.

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Honouring the Past and Shaping the Future – GTA

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Upper East Region’s Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), the Regional House of Chiefs, and the PANAFEST/Emancipation Secretariat, has announced plans to celebrate this year’s PANAFEST and Emancipation Day. The event, taking place from July 18th to 19th, 2025, will be held at the historic Pikworo Slave Camp in Nania-Paga, a site deeply rooted in Ghana’s history.

Themed “Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice – Pan-African Artistic Activism”

This year’s event is themed “Let Us Speak of Reparative Justice – Pan-African Artistic Activism,” focusing on the rich cultural heritage of Africa, fostering Pan-African unity, and providing a reflective space to honour the sacrifices made by ancestors who fought against slavery and colonial oppression. It is a call to connect the past to the present, highlighting the importance of healing and unity for all African people, both on the continent and in the diaspora.

A Diverse Gathering for Reflection and Celebration

The two-day celebration will bring together a wide range of participants, including residents, diaspora communities, tourists, and key stakeholders in Ghana’s tourism and cultural sectors. Wisdom Ahadzi, the Regional Director of the GTA, emphasised that this celebration is more than just an event—it is a moment of reflection, renewal, and action. The celebration will serve as a tribute to the past while inspiring a collective effort to shape a future defined by unity, justice, and peace for all African people.

Pikworo Slave Camp: A Symbol of Resilience

The Pikworo Slave Camp, a site of profound historical significance, stands as a powerful reminder of the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade. It symbolises the enduring strength and resilience of the African people, providing an ideal setting for this solemn occasion. The camp’s role as a symbol of remembrance and hope will be central to the celebrations.

Activities and Highlights of the Event

The event will feature an engaging mix of activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire reflection. These will include historical exhibitions, artefact displays, cultural performances by local groups, and panel discussions focusing on topics such as reparative justice and African unity. These activities aim to foster dialogue on the need for healing and the collective pursuit of a more inclusive and unified future.

A Moving and Insightful Celebration

The PANAFEST and Emancipation Day celebration at Pikworo Slave Camp promises to be a profoundly moving and insightful gathering. It will reinforce the importance of honouring the past while coming together to shape a future of inclusivity, unity, and justice for all African people.

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Savanna News

Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta Expresses Concern Over 1 Strike

The recent strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has caused significant concern, particularly within the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese. Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta, the Bishop of the Diocese, highlighted the devastating effects of the strike during his address at a World Day of the Sick event at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Zorkor, Bongo District.

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The Cost of the Strike as espoused by Most Rev. Agyenta

The recent strike by the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) has caused significant concern, particularly within the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese. Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta, the Bishop of the Diocese, highlighted the devastating effects of the strike during his address at a World Day of the Sick event at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Zorkor, Bongo District.

Bishop Agyenta stressed that the actual cost of the strike could not be fully quantified, as many patients experienced deteriorating health conditions, and tragically, some lost their lives. These lives cannot be brought back, he remarked, emphasising the lasting consequences of such actions on vulnerable patients.

A Call for Compassion in the Health Sector

While recognising the importance of addressing issues in the health sector, Bishop Agyenta called for careful consideration in resolving conflicts within the healthcare system. He appealed for compassion and understanding, noting that the health sector plays a critical role in the well-being of the public, especially the most vulnerable.

World Day of the Sick: A Day of Solidarity

World Day of the Sick, initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1992, is a day dedicated to showing solidarity and kindness toward those suffering from illness. It serves as a reminder to offer both physical and emotional support to those who need it. For Bishop Agyeman, this day is a call to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of healthcare workers while reflecting on the challenges they face.

Catholic Health Facilities and Their Role

The Bishop also commended Catholic health facilities, expressing pride in the church’s contribution to healthcare, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited. He urged health workers to prioritise providing care in a clean and compassionate environment. He emphasised the importance of healthcare providers being empathetic, stressing that their role is to bring hope, not to add to the pain of those they serve.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of the Catholic Health Trust staff, particularly during the strike, as most of their facilities continued to operate despite the unrest. While some workers had joined the strike, Most Rev. Agyenta expressed that this was “un-Christian,” suggesting that union actions should be handled outside the church’s framework.

Commitment to Service Amid Challenges

Peter Ayamba, the Director of Catholic Health Trust, echoed the Bishop’s sentiments, highlighting the unwavering commitment of the staff in the face of recent labour unrest. Ayamba reminded the staff that their work is not just about healthcare but also about their roles as ministers of the gospel. He urged them to serve with humility, compassion, and respect for human dignity, always striving to enhance the quality of care they provide.

The Bishop’s address serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, especially in times of crisis. While issues within the healthcare system need to be addressed, all parties involved must prioritise the well-being of patients, as lives lost during strikes cannot be revived.

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Savanna News

LEAN Project Restores 425 Hectares of Land in Kassena-Nankana

A significant environmental restoration effort has been achieved in the Kassena-Nankana West District, where 425 hectares of previously degraded land, affected by illegal mining, indiscriminate tree felling, and sand winning, have been rehabilitated. This restoration is thanks to the LEAN project, implemented by World Vision Ghana, an international not-for-profit organization, with support from the European Union (EU).

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Restoring the Land by the LEAN Project

A significant environmental restoration effort has been achieved in the Kassena-Nankana West District, where 425 hectares of previously degraded land, affected by illegal mining, indiscriminate tree felling, and sand winning, have been rehabilitated. This restoration is thanks to the LEAN project, implemented by World Vision Ghana, an international not-for-profit organization, with support from the European Union (EU).

Lean-Project
Lean-Project

Empowering Local Communities

The LEAN project, which aims to improve environmental conditions and livelihoods, has provided training to 500 Community Fire volunteers and 500 lead farmers in 25 communities. These communities, including Saaka, Badunu, Chania, Nania, Babile, and others, have adopted the Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) concept, a core component of the project.

Impact on Agriculture and Environment

Anas Abdul-Nashiru Wechu, a local farmer from Navio, shared the positive effects of the FMNR concept, noting how it has mitigated the impacts of climate change and contributed to poverty reduction in the community. Economic trees, such as shea nuts, baobabs, and redberries, have been protected, and many residents have taken up beekeeping as a sustainable income source.

In the Navio Electoral Area, three people from each community were selected to receive beekeeping training and hives. This has become a significant economic activity for both youth and adults, offering additional opportunities for local development.

Environmental Improvements

Bismark Kwotuah, Chairman of the LEAN project in the Boani/Banyono Electoral Area, praised the project’s success, noting that the community has not experienced significant environmental degradation for two years after its implementation. The early rains this year, unlike the previous dry spells caused by tree-cutting, were also attributed to the positive impact of the project.

Supporting Farmers with Tools

The EU LEAN project has also equipped farmers with essential tools such as cutlasses, sickles, pruning knives, and hand gloves, aiding in the management of shrubs and the protection of newly grown trees. These efforts are contributing to sustainable farming practices and environmental protection in the district.

Project Overview

LEAN is a four-year initiative funded by the EU, targeting 6,000 beneficiaries in the underserved communities of the Kassena-Nananka West District. The project aligns with national efforts to conserve biodiversity, improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and enhance climate resilience in the savannah, high forest, and transition zones of Ghana.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The project is a consortium led by World Vision Ghana, alongside Tropenbos Ghana, Ecorecare Ghana, and Rainforest as the lead implementer. In addition to the Upper East Region, the project is also being rolled out in the West Gonja District of the Savannah Region, focusing on landscape governance, forest protection, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods for smallholder farmers.

Through these efforts, the LEAN project is not only rehabilitating the environment but also empowering local communities to build sustainable futures. The combination of environmental restoration and economic development is making a lasting impact in the region.

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Savanna News

How Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama intends to improve Walewale

Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Walewale, has introduced five key initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of residents in his constituency.

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Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama - Member of Parliament for Walewale
Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama - Member of Parliament for Walewale
Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama – Member of Parliament for Walewale

Introduction of Comprehensive Initiatives by the Walewale MP

Dr Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Walewale, has introduced five key initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of residents in his constituency. These initiatives focus on key areas like agriculture, education, youth empowerment, women’s economic inclusion, and support for the elderly and vulnerable members of the community.

Key Interventions for Community Growth

The initiatives rolled out include the Agriculture Sector Support Initiative, the Education and Scholarship Fund, the Art and Creativity for Youth Initiative, the Women Microcredit Programme, and the Social Support for the Aged and Vulnerable. Each intervention is carefully designed to address specific needs within the community while ensuring fairness by limiting beneficiaries to one program per individual or household.

Community Engagement and Stakeholder Involvement

Dr. Mahama introduced these initiatives during a constituency-wide stakeholder engagement held in Walewale on Sunday, June 15, 2025. The event gathered a diverse group of residents, including traditional leaders, youth representatives, women’s groups, and opinion leaders. This provided an invaluable opportunity for Dr. Mahama to interact directly with his constituents, update them on his work, and gather their feedback on their needs and expectations.

Details of the Initiatives

  1. Agriculture Sector Support Initiative: Dr. Mahama announced the procurement of 100 fuel-powered pump machines for dry season farming. These machines will be sold to farmers at half the market price to encourage the scaling-up of agricultural activities, particularly among smallholder farmers. Registration for farmers will begin soon, allowing them to access these resources.
  2. Education and Scholarship Fund: A GH¢400,000 fund has been established to provide scholarships for bright yet financially needy students. This fund aims to support the educational advancement of young people in the constituency. In addition to the scholarships, Dr. Mahama shared that several mathematical sets have been donated to help students sit for exams.
  3. Women Microcredit Programme: The MP introduced a programme designed to provide small-scale financial assistance to women, enabling them to grow their businesses and sustain their families. Dr. Mahama emphasised that empowering women economically would have a direct, positive effect on household welfare and contribute to broader community development.
  4. Social Support for the Aged and Vulnerable: Continuing the work of his predecessor, Dr. Mahama launched an initiative aimed at providing food, healthcare, and other essential services to elderly individuals, widows, and those with disabilities. This programme ensures that marginalised groups are not excluded from the development agenda.

Commitment to Development

Dr. Mahama expressed his ongoing commitment to advocating for the development of Walewale. He pledged to continue lobbying for resources and support to address the challenges faced by residents.

Community Feedback and Reactions

The stakeholder engagement received positive feedback from attendees, who commended Dr. Mahama for organising the meeting. Residents viewed it as a timely response to their pressing challenges, showcasing responsible leadership and a genuine commitment to the community’s welfare.

Dr. Mahama’s initiatives reflect his ongoing dedication to enhancing the quality of life in Walewale through a combination of direct support, community engagement, and long-term development strategies.

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Savanna News

Sensitising Citizens to Local Governance in Tamale

A recent sensitisation program held in Tamale, the Northern regional capital, aimed to deepen citizens’ understanding of the country’s local governance system. Attendees included schoolchildren, teachers, local governance experts, civil society organisation (CSO) representatives, assembly members, and members of the public.

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A recent sensitisation program held in Tamale, the Northern regional capital, aimed to deepen citizens’ understanding of the country’s local governance system. Attendees included schoolchildren, teachers, local governance experts, civil society organisation (CSO) representatives, assembly members, and members of the public.

Children’s Engagement with Local Governance

During the event, participating children demonstrated a solid understanding of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936) by participating in a mock assembly session. They showcased their knowledge of the country’s democratic system and advocated for expanding such initiatives nationwide to improve awareness of local governance. This interactive approach highlighted the effectiveness of engaging youth in the political process.

Project Overview and Implementation

The program was organised under the Social Inclusion and Accountability project, a partnership between the Savings and Development Dialogue (SDD Ghana) and the STAR Ghana Foundation. SDD Ghana, an NGO committed to empowering young people and marginalised communities, spearheaded the initiative with funding from the STAR Ghana Foundation. Dr. Ibrahim Yakubu Nandom, Executive Director of SDD Ghana, explained that the project involved a network of volunteers and 47 children from the Tolon district, where they participated in Children’s Assemblies. These children were coached by governance mentors known as “governance coaches.”

Building Confidence in Young Citizens

Braimah Seidu, the District Chief Executive of Tolon, spoke on the positive impact the program had on children’s confidence. He noted that such initiatives could help them progress in education and become more engaged in their communities. Seidu commended SDD Ghana for its efforts and encouraged collaboration with other agencies to broaden the program’s reach to more districts.

Scaling Up for Broader Impact

Dr. Sadat Salifu, Board Chairman of SDD Ghana, described the project as a valuable experiment that should be scaled to benefit more children. Drawing on citizens’ historical experiences with local governance since 1988, Salifu pointed out that many people still confuse the roles of district assemblies and Parliament. She noted that the more prominent parliamentary system often overshadows the essential work of district assemblies, which have a broader reach and play a key role in driving local development.

Salifu emphasised that engaging children in local governance education was a sustainable approach to creating a well-informed and active citizenry. She called on the government and other stakeholders to join forces in revitalising local governance nationwide. Furthermore, she encouraged citizens to embrace active citizenship by volunteering their time, skills, and expertise to create meaningful change within their communities.

The Role of Strong Local Structures in Development

Dr. Chrysogonus Anab, a governance expert and senior lecturer at the University for Development Studies, highlighted the importance of strong local structures in sustaining development initiatives. He applauded the intervention by SDD Ghana and STAR Ghana Foundation for their significant impact on local governance education.

Volunteerism for Positive Change

Frederick Yenbaar Nuuri-Teg, a representative of the STAR Ghana Foundation, reiterated the foundation’s commitment to working alongside civil society organisations (CSOs) and stakeholders to leverage volunteerism for sustainable development. The collaboration, he explained, would harness collective efforts to bring about positive change.

The Importance of Education in Shaping Future Leaders

The event was chaired by Mohammed Hardi Tijani, Executive Director of RAINS, a Tamale-based NGO. He encouraged the children to take their studies seriously, as education is a vital tool for contributing to the nation’s development.

Issah Dokurugu, representing the governance coaches, urged citizens to adopt a shift in mindset—moving from “What can the country do for me?” to “What can I do for my country?” This change in perspective, he believes, will inspire greater civic involvement and national development.

This initiative has proven to be a significant step in fostering a culture of active citizenship and local governance engagement, with the potential for scaling up across the country.

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Savanna News

Goldstar Air’s Ambitious Transformation of Tamale into an Aviation City

Goldstar Air, a private airline registered in both Ghana and the United States, is poised to spearhead an extraordinary transformation of Tamale into an aviation hub. The airline, which operates with no liabilities and holds an Air Carrier License from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), is positioning itself to bridge the north-south gap in Ghana. Tamale, a city that has evolved from a modest village to a thriving economic centre, will now become the fastest-growing city in West Africa through Goldstar Air’s innovative project.

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Goldstar Air, a private airline registered in both Ghana and the United States, is poised to spearhead an extraordinary transformation of Tamale into an aviation hub. The airline, which operates with no liabilities and holds an Air Carrier License from the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), is positioning itself to bridge the north-south gap in Ghana. Tamale, a city that has evolved from a modest village to a thriving economic centre, will now become the fastest-growing city in West Africa through Goldstar Air’s innovative project.

Goldstar-Air
Goldstar-Air

The Vision of Goldstar Air: A Thriving Aviation City

Goldstar Air’s vision for Tamale goes beyond simply improving the city’s aviation infrastructure. The airline is committed to modernising the region’s facilities and fostering a vibrant, 24-hour economy. This transformation will create over two million direct and indirect job opportunities for Ghanaians, with a particular focus on empowering the youth of northern Ghana. The airline is urging the new administration to expedite the certification process, ensuring no time is wasted in setting the foundations for economic growth. As the city evolves, Tamale will play a key role in the broader regional development strategy, offering vital opportunities for employment, business growth, and tourism.

Strategic Location and Ideal Climate for Aviation

Tamale’s geographic location within the Kingdom of Dagbon and its climate conditions make it the perfect site for the Goldstar Air City Project. The desert climate, with its low humidity and high altitude, minimises corrosion on aircraft, while the ample surrounding land allows for extensive parking and maintenance facilities. These factors make the city an ideal location for aircraft maintenance, creating the potential for a world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility that will serve both Goldstar Air and other international carriers.

Aviation City Infrastructure

The development of Tamale’s aviation city will include a cargo village, aviation training facilities, office buildings, accommodations, and MRO services. By constructing a cutting-edge infrastructure, Goldstar Air plans to boost Ghana’s global connectivity and stimulate economic growth. The construction of these facilities will also attract foreign businesses, strengthening Ghana’s presence in the worldwide air transport sector.

A Strong Partnership for Regional Development

The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is already working with the GCAA to secure the land needed for the project at Tamale International Airport (TML). Once the land is allocated, the development of the 24-hour aviation hub will begin, marking the start of a new era for the northern region of Ghana. This development not only aims to boost the local economy but also seeks to narrow the divide between the north and southern parts of the country.

Support from the Traditional Rulers

Tamale’s transformation has received backing from local authorities, including the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II. In a recent appeal, Ya-Na called for the completion of phase three of the Yakubu Tali International Airport project, which has been stalled for years. He also requested that the airport be renamed after Naa Gbewaa, a revered figure in the Dagbon Kingdom. This request has been echoed by other traditional leaders in the region, who believe renaming the airport would reflect the community’s identity and cultural heritage.

Goldstar Air’s Commitment to Safety and Growth

Goldstar Air is also focused on enhancing the safety of its operations. The airline’s efforts to complete the final phases of its Safety Certificate (AOC) are critical in obtaining complete control over its operations. The certification will enable Goldstar Air to register its wide-body aircraft under the Ghana Registry, giving the country full operational authority. This step is crucial to ensuring that the airline can expand its network to include more international destinations, thereby driving the region’s connectivity.

Leveraging Global Aviation Markets

Goldstar Air is capitalising on the booming aviation industry, which is valued at $3.5 trillion globally. The airline’s initiatives in Tamale are part of a broader effort to tap into this revenue stream, providing substantial financial returns to the country. The potential for aviation, cargo, and tourism to drive Ghana’s economic recovery cannot be overstated as the government seeks to overcome its $761.2 billion debt.

Creating a Global Aviation Hub

Goldstar Air’s city project will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including an MRO centre, a cargo terminal, and a training academy for aviation professionals. These developments will position Tamale as a key logistics hub in West and Central Africa. The MRO facility, in particular, will play a pivotal role in serving both regional and international airlines, making Tamale a destination for aircraft maintenance.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The creation of over two million job opportunities through the Goldstar Air project is a significant contribution to reducing unemployment, particularly among Ghana’s youth. With more than two million young Ghanaians currently unemployed, this initiative will provide critical job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as aviation, tourism, and logistics. By investing in the next generation of aviation professionals, Goldstar Air is helping build a sustainable talent pipeline for the future.

Tourism Boost for Northern Ghana

As the aviation city takes shape, Tamale’s tourism industry will also experience a significant boost. The city is home to several cultural landmarks, such as Mole National Park and the Larabanga Mosque. With improved air connectivity, Goldstar Air aims to position Tamale as a prime tourist destination in the region, driving demand for hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.

Enhancing Ghana’s Agricultural Exports

One of the key benefits of the aviation city will be its ability to support Ghana’s agricultural sector. Tamale is known for producing large quantities of agricultural commodities, such as yams, shea butter, and groundnuts. By providing a dedicated cargo terminal and modern cold chain logistics, Goldstar Air will help farmers reduce post-harvest losses and increase their revenue by accessing international markets.

Strengthening Ghana’s Economy Through Trade

The establishment of a cargo hub in Tamale will significantly enhance Ghana’s position as a logistics and trade centre in West Africa. With easy access to global markets, the Northern Region’s manufacturing companies will be able to export their products more efficiently, driving economic growth and diversification. Additionally, the expansion of Goldstar Air’s flight network will further integrate Ghana into the global trade system.

Training the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals

Goldstar Air’s investment in training facilities will equip young Ghanaians with the skills they need to pursue careers in aviation. By offering scholarships and hands-on training, the airline will ensure that the next generation of pilots, engineers, and airport managers are well-prepared to support the growth of Ghana’s aviation sector.

Tamale: A Vision for the Future

The transformation of Tamale into an aviation city will bring profound social and economic changes to the region. With a strong focus on sustainability, security, and innovation, Goldstar Air is building a future where Tamale will be a key player in the global economy. Through its 24-hour operations, the airline is creating opportunities that will help lift Ghana’s youth out of poverty and into well-paying jobs, paving the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

By establishing world-class infrastructure and fostering a culture of collaboration, Goldstar Air is setting the stage for Tamale to become a hub for innovation, business, and tourism in West Africa. The airline’s ambitious plans for Tamale will not only transform the city but also enhance its appeal. Still, they will also elevate Ghana’s status on the global stage, making it a beacon of progress and opportunity for the entire region.

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