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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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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has revealed that more than 822,000 Ghana Cards are still awaiting collection. Despite the completion of the registration process for over 18 million Ghanaians, a significant number of cards remain unclaimed.
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A Growing Backlog
During a recent press briefing at the NIA headquarters in Accra, Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas, the Head of Corporate Affairs at NIA, expressed concern over the backlog of uncollected cards. He emphasised the need for registered individuals to visit their respective collection centres promptly and collect their cards.
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Importance of the Ghana Card
The NIA continues to underscore the importance of the card as a critical identification document. It plays a vital role in accessing various services and fulfilling civic responsibilities. To prevent any delays, the NIA is urging all registered individuals to act promptly and retrieve their cards from the designated collection centres nationwide.
The NIA is committed to reducing the number of uncollected cards and improving the efficiency of the national identification process. By ensuring that individuals promptly collect their Ghana Cards, the authority aims to strengthen the national identification system further.
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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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.
The Overlord of the Mamprugu Kingdom, Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sherigah II, has called for the complete removal of the curfew in Walewale and surrounding areas, citing its detrimental impact on local livelihoods and social life. Nayiri’s appeal comes amid rising tensions, with youth groups planning protests to demand the removal of Northeast Regional Minister Ibrahim Tia, accusing him of mishandling the region’s security challenges.
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The curfew was initially imposed on February 15, 2025, after a violent attack on the Walewale-Bolgatanga Highway, which resulted in the deaths of seven people, including two foreigners, and the destruction of several commercial vehicles. Since April 28, 2025, the curfew has been in effect from 10 PM to 4 AM, but it has faced opposition from locals, who argue that it has disrupted daily life and worsened economic hardship.
During a recent visit by President John Mahama to Nalerigu, the Nayiri urged the government to reconsider the curfew, noting that the region had been peaceful for some time. He believes that lifting the curfew would restore normalcy, boost local commerce, and ease the burden on residents.
Naa-Bohagu-Mahami-Abdulai-Sherigah-II (Nayiri)
The tensions have been exacerbated by reports of military operations in Walewale and nearby communities, which led to the deaths of two civilians, Imoro Hafiz, 36, and Alhaji Sumaila, 45, and left several others injured between January 14 and February 15. Youth leader Alhassan Sandah accused Minister Tia of imposing the curfew without consulting the community and of failing to address the ongoing violence along the Tamale-Walewale-Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom highway. Sandah warned that the local economy is on the brink of collapse, criticizing Tia’s handling of the situation and calling for his removal. He emphasized that while the community does not want violence, the youth will continue protesting until their demands are met.
Naa-Bohagu-Mahami-Abdulai-Sherigah-II (Nayiri)
While the Interior Ministry argues that the curfew is necessary to maintain peace and has banned the carrying of weapons with violators facing arrest, residents are calling for more highway patrols and community-based security measures. The Nayiri’s renewed appeal, backed by the youth’s persistent protests, reflects a growing demand for dialogue and security solutions that do not stifle daily life.
Residents are now awaiting the government’s response to address both the curfew and the underlying issues contributing to unrest in the Northeast Region.
Newly graduated officers of the Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) have been charged to show unwavering dedication to protecting the nation’s borders, especially in the face of rising transnational threats.
Addressing graduates at the second passing-out parade of Recruit Intake 30 at the Mid-Country Training School in Tepa, Deputy Commissioner of Immigration (DCOI) Francis Palmdeti emphasized that “integrity, professionalism, and vigilance must guide your service to the nation.”
He commended the recruits for enduring the rigours of training, which, he said, were designed to shape them into resilient and disciplined officers ready for frontline duties. Palmdeti reminded them that the Immigration Service plays a vital role in Ghana’s national security, particularly in dealing with cross-border crimes and complex migration challenges.
“The discipline and vigilance you’ve acquired here must now reflect in how you carry out your duty to Ghana,” he told the new officers, encouraging them to uphold the trust reposed in them.
He also lauded the Commandant and instructors for their role in shaping the recruits, describing their efforts as crucial to national stability.
The ceremony, which featured a well-coordinated parade and awards presentation, saw Recruit Officer Mark Selorm Awuku honoured as the overall best recruit.
The event was attended by the Tepamanhene, Nana Adusei Atwenewaa Apem, his Queen mother, sub-chiefs, district officials, and representatives from other security services.
The graduation of Intake 30, Palmdeti noted, is a testament to the Ghana Immigration Service’s continued commitment to strengthening border management, migration control, and the overall protection of Ghana’s sovereignty.
The National Service Authority (NSA) has released PIN codes for 132,393 eligible graduates for the 2025/2026 service year. Registration begins today, June 17, and will run until July 1, 2025, giving prospective personnel just two weeks to activate their PINs and complete the online registration process.
To activate their PIN, applicants are required to pay GHS 40 at any ADB Bank branch or GHS 41 via MTN Mobile Money. Registration can be done through the NSA portal at smarthub.nss.gov.gh, where users can retrieve their PIN codes and follow detailed instructions.
The NSA advises all applicants to complete their registration as soon as possible and utilize available support tools to prevent delays or potential disqualification.
National Service is a mandatory one-year program for all graduates from accredited tertiary institutions. Coordinated by the NSA, it aims to instil discipline, promote national development, and offer practical experience before entering the job market. Completing the service is legally required and often a key factor in securing employment in both public and private sectors.
