The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Northern Development Authority (NDA), Dr Emmanuel Abeere-Inga, has called for the establishment of a more unified and efficient development coordination framework to drive sustainable development across the five regions of Northern Ghana.
During a courtesy call on the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, in Bolgatanga, Dr Abeere-Inga emphasised that a streamlined system would enable the regions to collaborate more effectively, attract and manage development projects and funding, and empower local stakeholders.
“This move is necessary if we are to overcome the deep-rooted bureaucratic bottlenecks that often stall meaningful progress,” he noted.
Challenges of Centralised Bureaucracy
Dr Abeere-Inga lamented that, despite the rich investment potential and numerous donor-supported projects, tangible development remains limited in the north. He attributed this partly to the centralised control of development funds and decision-making in Accra.
“One of the major challenges is that while Northern Ghana is known to host many NGOs and support programs, the money rarely gets here. What reaches our people is mere tokenism,” he stated.
He cited the Ghana Commercial Agriculture Project, initially financed through a $60 million World Bank loan and a $50 million U.S. government grant, as an example of poor project execution due to the control of funds in Accra. He revealed that the U.S. eventually withdrew its support when it became clear that the funds were not benefiting Northern Ghana as intended.
Building a New Development Pathway
The Acting CEO revealed that consultations are ongoing with technocrats across all five northern regions to design a more effective development framework. The NDA’s aim is to ensure that future donor and government investments are directed and managed locally, thereby ensuring transparency, accountability, and a meaningful impact.
“We’re advocating for a system that truly puts local actors at the centre of development planning and implementation,” he added.
Minister Endorses Vision
In response, Upper East Regional Minister Mr Donatus Akamugri acknowledged the past shortcomings of the NDA and the need for renewal.
“We need to change the narrative,” he said, expressing confidence in the leadership of Dr Abeere-Inga to restore credibility and deliver impactful development.
He encouraged the NDA to engage the Northern Caucus in Parliament to build bipartisan support for the new framework.
“With consensus, we can drive lasting development that truly transforms the north,” he concluded.
This visit also served as an opportunity for Dr Abeere-Inga to congratulate Mr Akamugri on his recent appointment and foster deeper partnerships for the region’s transformation agenda.
