ActionAid Ghana has celebrated the transformative impact of its Child Sponsorship Programme, particularly in rural communities in the Upper West Region, as part of the Day of the African Child celebrations. The event, held in the Mwofo community in the Jirapa Municipality, focused on the theme: “Planning and Budgeting for Children: Progress Since 2010.”

Empowering Communities and Enhancing Child Welfare – ActionAid Ghana

Mr. Amatus Aaron Dangboor, Upper West Regional Programme Officer of ActionAid Ghana, described the Child Sponsorship Programme as a “lifeline for communities.” He highlighted that the programme has played a crucial role in fostering partnerships, promoting empowerment, and facilitating sustainable development across the region.

Celebrating African Children’s Potential

The celebration aimed not only to recognize the potential of African children but also to renew commitments to protecting their rights and investing in their future. School children from the Lambussie and Jirapa Municipalities, as well as traditional leaders, participated in the event, which featured cultural dances and poetry recitals on child rights protection and well-being.

Lasting Impact on Education, Health, and Rights Protection

Mr. Dangboor shared that the Child Sponsorship Programme has had a lasting impact on children’s lives, particularly in areas such as access to quality education, improved health and nutrition, and the protection of their rights. “Many children in our sponsored communities now attend school in improved learning environments,” he said, noting that classrooms have been renovated and teaching materials provided thanks to sponsorship funding.

Key Interventions Benefiting the Region

One of the key achievements mentioned by Mr. Dangboor was the donation of 479 dual desks to six basic schools across the Jirapa, Lambussie, and Sissala East Districts, benefiting about 960 pupils. Other notable interventions included the provision of boreholes, sanitation facilities, and community health education initiatives that raised awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention.

Additionally, 25 mothers of sponsored children across the three districts received startup kits for soap and pastries making, aimed at boosting their household incomes, reducing poverty, and lowering the vulnerability of their children.

Gratitude for Donors and Sponsors

Mr. Dangboor expressed his gratitude to international donors and child sponsors, whose generosity has brought hope and changed the lives of thousands of children.

A Call for Child-Centered Development

In a speech read on his behalf, Mr. Peter N. N. To-Ang, the Jirapa Municipal Chief Executive, emphasized that the Day of the African Child celebration served as a clarion call to center children’s needs in development. He reiterated that every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, has the right to health, education, protection, and participation.

Government’s Commitment to Children’s Rights

Mr. To-Ang also highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing policies and programmes that ensure children enjoy their rights, particularly the rights to quality education and healthcare.

Addressing Barriers to Education

Mr. Huudu Kunateh, the Jirapa Municipal Director of Education, pointed out that while the Ghana Education Service has been working on planning and budgeting for children’s well-being, including providing school feeding, many children remain out of school due to factors such as child marriage, stigma, disability, and gender-based discrimination.

Conclusion

The celebration underscored the significant contributions of ActionAid Ghana’s Child Sponsorship Programme in improving the lives of children in rural communities. With continued investment in children’s rights, education, and health, the programme is helping to build a brighter future for children in the Upper West Region and beyond.

Jirapa | Upper West Region | June 30 | 2025

The Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, Catholic Bishop of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese, has raised the alarm over the increasing number of teenage pregnancies in the Upper East Region, describing the situation as a moral and societal crisis that requires urgent attention from families, communities, and institutions.

A Call for Reflection

Speaking during a homily at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Bolgatanga, where 32 couples celebrated their holy matrimony, Bishop Agyenta expressed his deep concern about young girls, some as young as 15, becoming mothers. He questioned, “Why should a child become a mother?” He urged everyone to reflect on the state of families, asking, “What is happening to our families that a 15-year-old should be responsible for taking care of another child?”

The Impact on Education and Future Prospects

The bishop shared troubling stories of young girls who, after becoming pregnant, were unable to continue their education. Some were pregnant just months before sitting for the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). “A good number of these girls were pregnant just months before the exams,” he noted, highlighting the long-term consequences for their education and prospects.

Growing Teenage Pregnancy Crisis

Bishop Agyenta’s comments come at a time when teenage pregnancies are rising in parts of Ghana, particularly in the Upper East Region. For instance, ahead of the just-ended 2025 BECE, reports indicated that 21 girls were visibly pregnant, and 17 girls were lactating mothers. The trend has raised significant concerns about the impact on the education system and the future of these young girls.

Breakdown of Family Structures

Bishop Agyenta attributed the rise in teenage pregnancies to general neglect of family responsibilities and a failure to prioritize proper child upbringing. He stressed, “A healthy society begins with strong families where children are nurtured with love, care, discipline, and guidance.” He also pointed out that society often complains about its state without looking at the challenges within families. “The transformation of society must begin at home,” he said.

The Role of the Church and Community

The bishop called on the Church, community leaders, and parents to renew their commitment to the moral and spiritual upbringing of children. He reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage and family life, emphasizing that love between a man and a woman is sacred and must be grounded in lifelong commitment and mutual respect.

A Moral and Spiritual Issue

Bishop Agyenta underscored that teenage pregnancy is not only a social issue but also a spiritual and moral one. He appealed to families to offer the necessary protection and guidance to their children, particularly their daughters. “If we fail to protect our children, especially our girls, then we fail as a society,” he stressed.

A Message to Young People

Finally, Bishop Agyenta encouraged young people to stay focused on their education, stressing the importance of understanding their dignity and life’s purpose. He reminded them that they are called to grow, learn, and take responsibility in society.

Conclusion

Bishop Agyenta’s remarks serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of strong family structures and the need for collective action to address the growing issue of teenage pregnancies in the Upper East Region. It calls for a renewed commitment to nurturing and protecting the younger generation, ensuring they have the opportunity to realize their full potential.

Bolgatanga | Upper East Region | June 23 | G2025

A recent study has revealed that agribusiness innovation hubs are significantly enhancing the growth and performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. The research emphasises the need for stronger policy support to maximise the impact of these hubs.

Key Findings of the Research

The study highlighted that agri-innovation hubs are enhancing access to resources, promoting value co-creation, facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, and supporting the creation of employment opportunities. Notably, 40.4% of beneficiaries reported increased access to new markets after engaging with these hubs.

Titled “The Impact of Agri-Innovation Hubs on SME Performance in Ghana,” the research aimed to assess how agribusiness incubation and innovation hubs are transforming the country’s agri-food systems through youth-led innovations.

Research Collaboration and Funding

The study was jointly conducted by the SDD University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) and the Dr. Hilla Limann Technical University (DHLTU), with funding from the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation (MESTI) and the Africa Centre of Technology Studies (ACTS), under the Science Granting Councils Initiative (SGCI) in Africa.

The Role of Agri-Innovation Hubs

Professor Issaka Kanton Osumanu, Pro-Vice Chancellor of SDD-UBIDS, highlighted that the research aligns with the university’s commitment to practical training. He emphasised that the lessons learned from the project would help shape the university’s student training programs for greater impact.

Mr. Wilfred Edem Dennis, Principal Research Officer at MESTI, described agribusiness innovation hubs as “critical enablers” of agricultural transformation, underscoring their role in job creation. He added that the youth-led innovations in agriculture supported by these hubs are essential to modernising the sector, creating jobs, and driving inclusive economic growth. This approach aligns with Ghana’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy Implementation Plan and broader development goals.

Focus on Agro-Processing

Professor Adams Abdulai, the lead researcher, noted that approximately 55% of respondents were involved in agro-processing. This suggests that future investments should prioritise this sector to maximise the job creation potential of agri-innovation hubs. “Membership in agro-innovation hubs significantly impacts SME performance. To catalyse development in the agri-food sector, we must support the expansion of these hubs,” emphasised Prof. Abdulai.

Conclusion

The research highlights the transformative role of agri-innovation hubs in boosting SME performance and job creation in Ghana. By fostering youth-led innovation and promoting collaboration across sectors, these hubs are crucial for modernising the agri-food industry and contributing to the country’s economic growth.

Wa | (Upper West Region | June 26 | 2025

Albert Sore has been elected as the new Upper East Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) following a resounding victory in the regional elections held on Monday, 30th June 2025.

A Clear Victory

Sore secured 29 out of 44 votes, defeating veteran journalist Ebo Bruce Quansah, who garnered 15 votes. The election took place at the Bolgatanga Municipal Electoral Commission Office and saw active participation from journalists in good standing across the region.

The election process was described as peaceful and transparent, with the GJA Electoral Committee overseeing the exercise. The committee commended the professionalism and cooperation displayed by members throughout the voting process.

A Vision for Unity and Professional Growth

In his victory speech, an emotional Albert Sore expressed heartfelt gratitude to his colleagues for their trust and confidence. He emphasised his commitment to promoting unity among journalists, enhancing their welfare, and addressing the key issues facing journalism in the Upper East Region.

“This victory is not just mine but for all journalists in the Upper East Region. I promise to work tirelessly to bring us together and address the challenges we face,” he stated.

Sore’s leadership vision includes focusing on capacity-building programs, offering targeted training opportunities, and creating initiatives to improve the professional standards of journalism in the region. He emphasised the importance of prioritising training, welfare, and professionalism to enhance the quality of journalism.

A Gracious Defeat

Ebo Bruce Quansah, Sore’s opponent, graciously accepted the result and encouraged all members of the GJA to support the newly elected chairman in fostering a vibrant and united media community in the region.

Support from Stakeholders

Sore’s victory has been widely celebrated, with media executives, civil society organisations, and communication professionals offering their congratulations. Many expressed optimism that his leadership would bring about positive changes within the media landscape of Northern Ghana.

Conclusion

Albert Sore’s election as the GJA Upper East Regional Chairman marks a new chapter for journalism in the region. With a clear focus on unity, professional development, and welfare, his leadership promises to drive meaningful progress within the media industry in Northern Ghana.

MTN Ghana has provided training for 35 young entrepreneurs in the Upper East Region, teaching them how to harness social media platforms to grow their businesses. The training, part of MTN Ghana’s annual “21 Days of Y’ello Care” initiative, also introduced participants to advanced tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance their marketing efforts.

Equipping Entrepreneurs with Digital Marketing Skills

The participants, hailing from various industries, including fashion, basket weaving, food, and crafts, learned hands-on strategies for effectively utilising social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. They were also introduced to AI tools to increase their business reach and sales.

Focus on Economic Empowerment

Mr. Martin Yaw Kumobah, Upper East Regional Lead for MTN Ghana, explained that the training aimed to provide young entrepreneurs with social media marketing skills to promote their businesses beyond their immediate surroundings. He stated, “This year, we decided to focus on economic empowerment by providing social media training to 35 young entrepreneurs who are already running small businesses.”

Addressing Knowledge Gaps

Mr Kumobah noted that while many young people in the region use social media, they often lack the skills to effectively utilise these platforms to attract a larger audience and boost sales. “They know how to post but not how to attract the right audience or boost their posts for better visibility,” he explained. The training emphasised the importance of utilising social media to expand their market reach and prevent business stagnation.

Training for Growth and Opportunity

The two-day training offered free of charge, aimed to help participants gain new skills to market their products. Mr Kumobah encouraged the entrepreneurs to view social media as a powerful tool for transformation, adding, “If you invest in learning how to market using social media and AI, the results in a few months can be phenomenal.”

MTN’s Ongoing Commitment to Community Development

The MTN Y’ello Care program, launched in 2007, is MTN’s flagship employee volunteerism initiative aimed at giving back to communities. The program focuses on social interventions in areas such as education, economic empowerment, health, and community development.

Participant Testimonials

Ms. Paulina Kuoro, a cement seller, expressed her gratitude for the training, hoping that the skills she acquired would help boost her business visibility and attract more customers. Similarly, Mr Mamudu Bansi, a fashion entrepreneur, admitted that while he was active on social media, he didn’t know how to leverage it for business growth. After the training, he felt empowered with the digital skills necessary to elevate his business.

Conclusion

MTN Ghana’s Y’ello Care initiative continues to make a meaningful impact by empowering young entrepreneurs with the digital skills they need to thrive. This training not only benefits individual businesses but also fosters broader economic development in the Upper East Region, ensuring that young entrepreneurs are better equipped to compete in a digitally-driven market.

Bolgatanga | Upper East Region | June 22 | 2025

The Clement Kubindiwo Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS) in Navrongo will benefit from a GH¢10 million infrastructure development fund. The university is one of four institutions selected to receive funding under the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) for this year.

Funding Allocation for University Development

The other universities receiving support include the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, and Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) in Wa. Mr. Haruna Iddrisu, the Minister for Education, announced the Fifth Congregation of CKT-UTAS, confirming that the university would receive its share of the GH¢10 million for infrastructure development.

“This allocation of GH¢40 million for four universities is described as seed money for their development,” Mr Iddrisu stated, ensuring that the funds would be released before the end of the next quarter. He emphasised that this was a commitment the government would honour, enabling the university to invest in its growth and infrastructure.

Ministry’s Commitment to Supporting CKT-UTAS

Mr Iddrisu, who is also the Member of Parliament for Tamale South, expressed his pride in the university’s progress, highlighting the government’s support for institutions like CKT-UTAS that are contributing to Ghana’s development, especially in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education.

“CKT-UTAS plays a vital role in the future of Ghana, which is centred on STEM education. We will continue to support you in all necessary ways,” he assured.

Focus on STEM Education

The Minister also referenced data from the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), revealing that student enrollment for the 2024/2025 academic year would reach 302,000 in the sciences and 390,000 in the humanities. The government’s priority is to close the gap between the two sectors and increase the number of graduates in STEM fields, thereby enhancing the country’s competitiveness.

University’s Vision for the Future

Professor Albert Luguterah, the Vice-Chancellor of CKT-UTAS, outlined the university’s commitment to providing higher education, conducting research, and disseminating knowledge related to development through the integration of technology and applied sciences. He outlined his vision for transforming the institution into a world-class learning environment, one that prioritises ethical research and academic excellence.

Professor Luguterah also thanked the founding council of the university for their leadership during the institution’s formative years and acknowledged the strong support from Mr. Iddrisu, Mr. Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Regional Minister, and GTEC.

Looking Forward with Confidence

“As we look to the future, we are confident and hopeful, thanks to the commitment and clear direction provided by our current council,” said Professor Luguterah. With the university’s continued development and the support of key stakeholders, CKT-UTAS is well-positioned to play a key role in Ghana’s educational and technological growth.

Conclusion

With the GH¢10 million funding, CKT-UTAS is set to make significant strides in its infrastructure development, ensuring a more robust educational environment. This investment reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening higher education and advancing the STEM agenda in Ghana.

A regional private sector investment and capacity-building forum aimed at fostering collaboration between local government and private sector players was held in Tamale. The discussion focused on promoting women’s and youth participation in regional economic development and preparing the private sector to capitalise on opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Strengthening Partnerships for Regional Growth

Organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) and supported by the Peacebuilding Fund Project, the event was part of broader efforts to unlock the investment potential of northern Ghana and foster inclusive economic growth. The theme for the forum was: “Accelerating Local Development by Leveraging Private Sector Investment and Partnership.”

Encouraging Investment and Economic Empowerment

Participants included government officials, civil society organisations, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and development partners, all of whom came together to explore new paths for regional development. Mr Niloy Banerjee, UNDP Resident Representative in Ghana, emphasised the forum’s alignment with the UNDP’s mission to create sustainable livelihoods, promote social cohesion, and empower women and young people. He stated, “This forum is designed to equip women and youth groups in northern Ghana to build resilience and enhance productivity in their communities.”

Government Support for Investment

Mr. Banerjee also urged the government to prioritise the creation of an investment-friendly ecosystem that ensures safety and confidence for investors, which, in turn, would foster job creation and business opportunities.

Renewed Development Mindset

Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of NDPC, in a speech read on her behalf, stressed the importance of empowering local authorities in northern Ghana to lead in attracting private sector investments. She urged local government leaders to actively pitch investment opportunities, negotiate partnerships confidently, and follow through on commitments to ensure credible development outcomes.

Additionally, she highlighted the launch of an Investment Toolkit, developed with the support of UNDP, which serves as a guide for districts to assess their investment readiness, identify high-potential sectors, and craft compelling investment proposals. She also encouraged financial institutions to innovate in providing accessible financing options for micro and small enterprises, particularly those led by women and young people.

Regional Minister’s Call for Private Sector Investment

Mr. Ibrahim Tia, North East Regional Minister, whose speech was read on his behalf, emphasised the role of strong public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development. He announced plans to boost tomato cultivation and promote year-round farming in the region through expanded irrigation systems. He called on private sector actors to prioritise investments in the area, aiming to address local vulnerabilities and strengthen economic resilience.

Conclusion

The forum in Tamale served as a critical platform for collaboration between government, private sector, and development partners, laying the groundwork for more sustainable and inclusive economic growth in northern Ghana. With an increased focus on private sector investment and partnership, the region is well-positioned for greater economic development and resilience.

Tamale | Northern Region | June 28 | 2025.

AppCyclers, a homegrown social enterprise, has launched the Northern Ghana Plastic Waste Reboot Initiative, aiming to address plastic pollution while fostering sustainable livelihoods in the region. This initiative is poised to revolutionise plastic waste collection and recycling throughout Northern Ghana.

Tackling Plastic Pollution with Innovation – AppCyclers

The project is supported by TRANSFORM, a global impact accelerator backed by Unilever, the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, and EY. It is designed to introduce a scalable, technology-driven model that emphasises environmental sustainability and empowers women and marginalised waste workers in the area.

Circular Economy for a Greener Future

Mr. Agudor Agabas, CEO of AppCyclers, highlighted the initiative’s focus on a circular economy. “Through the Northern Ghana Plastic Waste Reboot Initiative, AppCyclers is pioneering a model where plastic waste is diverted from landfills and processed into reusable raw materials like flakes and pellets. These materials are then sold to local manufacturers, transforming waste into new products and value,” he said. This approach is central to reducing plastic pollution and creating new economic opportunities.

Key Objectives of the Initiative

The initiative will focus on three primary goals:

1. Waste Reduction: Over 1,800 tonnes of plastic waste will be diverted from landfills, resulting in a significant reduction in environmental pollution.
2. Empowering Women and Marginalised Workers: The project will empower 100 female informal waste workers by providing them with training, protective gear, and economic opportunities to improve their working conditions and livelihoods.
3. Enhancing Transparency: A digital platform will be deployed to improve traceability and transparency in waste collection efforts, ensuring that the recycling process is both efficient and accountable.

Conclusion

AppCyclers’ Northern Ghana Plastic Waste Reboot Initiative is set to make a significant impact on both the environment and the local economy. By leveraging technology and empowering marginalised groups, the initiative offers a sustainable solution to plastic waste while creating valuable opportunities for women and workers in the waste management sector.