Month: June 2025

Tragic Loss: New Lawra MCE Alhaji Adams Muaza Passes Away

Alhaji Adams Muaza, the newly appointed Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Lawra in the Upper West Region, has tragically passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Reports indicate that he has been struggling with health issues since his appointment in April 2025.

Health Struggles and Tragic Timing

Alhaji Muaza’s death comes at a time when the Lawra Municipality is still reeling from the recent tragic drowning of seven students in the Black Volta at Dikpe. The loss of the MCE adds to the deep sorrow in the region, which has been facing a difficult period.

Political and Community Contributions

Before becoming MCE, Alhaji Muaza had served as the Deputy Constituency Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lawra. His passing marks a significant loss to the community, where he had been a prominent figure, contributing to both political and social life in the area.

Expanding Career Choices for Northern SHS Students: The Start Right Fair

The School of Thought, a youth-led organisation, recently hosted the “Start Right” educational fair aimed at final-year Senior High School students in the Northern Region. This initiative is designed to open doors for students, providing them with a broader understanding of their future career options and university opportunities.

A Platform for Informed Decisions

The fair brought together over 10 tertiary institutions, career coaches, mentors, and development practitioners. The primary goal was to equip students with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures. Abraham Agoni, the founder of the School of Thought, emphasised the limited educational opportunities that many students in the region face. He pointed out that most students are only familiar with the few schools in their area, leaving them unaware of the vast array of options available elsewhere.

“This platform is meant to open their minds,” Agoni remarked, highlighting how important it is for students to explore beyond their immediate surroundings.

Balancing Passion and Profession

Guest speakers at the event also contributed valuable insights to guide students in their decision-making. Actor and comedian Clement Ashetey shared his own journey, illustrating the importance of striking a balance between passion and professional goals. He encouraged the students to prioritise their interests while also being proactive in securing opportunities.

“I didn’t just wait for the job to come. I worked for it, and I also followed my passion for acting. What I’ve done is prioritise what’s important,” he said, inspiring students to make deliberate choices in their careers.

Embracing Technology for Self-Development

Mindset engineer and leadership coach Prophet Prakash Pyne also addressed the students, stressing the role technology plays in shaping their future. He pointed out that the world of education has undergone dramatic changes, enabling students to access vast amounts of knowledge with just a few clicks.

“In times past, you had to go to the library or travel far for education. But today, within seconds, you can do a lot,” Pyne said. He encouraged students to embrace technology as a tool for knowledge and self-improvement, urging them to make the most of it to better themselves.

Effective Prioritisation and Responsibility Management

The event also featured a talk by Joe Ann Yakyiwah Sackey, Deputy Director of the UK Department of Business and Trade. She emphasised the importance of setting priorities and managing responsibilities effectively, offering students a practical approach to balancing their academic and personal lives.

Conclusion

The Start Right fair has undoubtedly served as a powerful platform for expanding career choices and academic opportunities for Northern SHS students. Insights from various experts have inspired students to explore beyond conventional options, embrace technology, and make well-informed decisions about their futures.

GH¢2.5 million Bongo Water Supply Expansion Completed: A Lifeline for the Community

WaterAid Ghana has successfully completed the expansion of the Bongo Water Supply System, a GH¢2.5 million project aimed at providing safer and more reliable access to clean water in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region.

Increased Water Production

The expansion has significantly increased the daily water production capacity, raising it from a modest 20,000 litres to an impressive 116,000 litres. This expansion was made possible through collaboration with the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA) and the financial support of the Zochonis Charitable Trust. The total project cost amounted to GH¢2,553,145.33, and it is expected to bring much-needed relief to local residents.

Project Highlights

Key aspects of the newly completed project include:

  • The mechanisationMechanisation of two existing boreholes to boost production.
  • Construction of two pump houses and four public standpipes.
  • Installation of an institutional standpipe and laying of nine kilometres of distribution pipelines.

These upgrades are a crucial part of a broader initiative to address the twin challenges of water scarcity and fluoride contamination in the region’s groundwater.

A Critical Step Forward

At the inauguration ceremony, Ewurabena Yanyi-Akofur, Country Director for WaterAid Ghana, stressed that while this project was an important milestone, there is still much to be done. She highlighted that fluoride contamination remains a serious concern in Bongo, noting that out of the four boreholes previously used, three are now compromised due to fluoride levels that exceeded safe limits.

“The people of Bongo deserve clean water every day,” she said, urging the government and donors to invest in alternative water sources, particularly surface water, which is not affected by fluoride. However, she emphasised that tackling this issue will require large-scale investments that WaterAid cannot handle alone.

Fluoride Contamination Still a Concern

Emmanuel Oppong, Acting Upper East Regional Director for CWSA, explained that the project was designed to address two urgent issues: limited access to potable water and unsafe fluoride levels in the region’s groundwater. Of the 11 boreholes tested, only seven met the acceptable fluoride threshold of 1.5 mg/l. Two of the boreholes, with yields of 4.8 and 6.0 cubic metres per hour, were selected for mechanisation.

Oppong expressed gratitude towards WaterAid Ghana and its partners for their technical and financial contributions to improving access to safe drinking water in Bongo.

A Community United for Sustainability

Naba Baba Salifu Atamale Lemyaarum, the Paramount Chief of the Bongo Traditional Area, extended his gratitude to WaterAid Ghana and its partners for their dedication to providing potable water to the region. He pledged to rally his community to care for the system and ensure its longevity, guaranteeing that future generations will benefit from these crucial improvements.

The expansion of the Bongo Water Supply System marks a significant milestone in improving water access, but further action is needed to ensure that the people of Bongo have a consistent and sustainable water supply in the years to come.

Navrongo Chiefs Demand Urgent Action from Mahama to Prevent Chieftaincy Crisis

It’s direct, urgent, and draws attention to the key figure—Mahama—while highlighting the looming crisis. Traditional leaders and stakeholders in the Navrongo Traditional Area of the Upper East Region have raised concerns over escalating chieftaincy tensions in the area. The community is urging the government to intervene before these issues undermine the region’s peace and stability.

Concerns Over Governance Changes

The Navrongo Kingmakers, the Council of Elders, and the Royal Navro-Pio family have expressed deep concerns over what they view as attempts by the current Paramount Chief to alter Navrongo’s time-honoured governance system. These changes, they argue, have been made without proper consultation or approval, threatening the peaceful coexistence that has defined Navrongo for centuries.

Wepia Achana, the head of the Kingmakers, stressed that these unapproved changes could have far-reaching consequences. He warned that the modifications could damage the chieftaincy institution, cultural integrity, and social harmony, which have been in place for generations.

Introduction of the “Overlord” System in Navrongo

A central point of contention is the introduction of an “Overlord” structure. According to the leaders, this structure is foreign to Navrongo’s traditional governance. It is being imposed without any respect for the customs or traditions of the area. Additionally, plans are underway to rename the Navrongo Traditional Council to the Kassena-Nankana Traditional Council, a move that stakeholders argue disregards long-established customary boundaries. They insist that these changes mislead the public and ignore the deeply rooted traditions of the community.

The Traditional Leadership Agreement

The traditional leaders revealed that they had obtained a document titled the “Traditional Leadership Agreement,” signed on August 20, 2024. This agreement outlines the introduction of the Overlord system, which they argue is not in line with Navrongo’s historical governance. They further noted that the proposed renaming of the council could confuse, as other paramountcies in the Kassena-Nankana area are not part of the Navrongo Traditional Council.

Unapproved Leadership Changes

The stakeholders also raised concerns about the enskinment of sub-chiefs by the Navro-Pio, bypassing the established procedures. This includes not consulting the Regional House of Chiefs, which is a breach of traditional protocols. Additionally, the leaders accused the Paramount Chief of manipulating leadership records by including unauthorized clans and individuals in official submissions to the National House of Chiefs. These actions, according to the leaders, are causing unnecessary divisions and could ignite a larger crisis if not addressed promptly.

Call for Government Investigation

The leaders have called for an investigation into these irregularities, urging the government to ensure that traditional customs and protocols are respected. They also highlighted that several petitions, some dating back to 2021, remain unresolved, particularly those related to land disputes and breaches of tradition. This ongoing neglect has increased tensions, with the potential for the conflict to spill over into neighbouring areas.

A Plea for Peace

In their closing remarks, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace. They appealed to former President John Mahama to intervene in the matter, fearing that further provocation could cause irreparable harm to their social cohesion and cultural heritage.

As of now, a spokesperson for the Navro-Pio, Felix Kondayiri, has declined to comment on the situation.

The escalating crisis calls for immediate action to preserve Navrongo’s cultural integrity and prevent further unrest.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Most Rev. Alfred Agyenta Expresses Concern Over 1 Strike

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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