Osahene Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Effutu, has vowed to push for bold, targeted interventions that will accelerate the development of northern Ghana. He made this promise during his keynote address at the inaugural Northern Development Conference; a key event designed to discuss the region’s challenges and unlock its potential.
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Strategic Significance of Northern Ghana – Afenyo-Markin
In his speech, Mr. Afenyo-Markin emphasised the critical role northern Ghana plays in the country’s development, calling it “a region of untapped potential.” He acknowledged the north’s substantial contribution to the national food basket, providing about 40% of Ghana’s food supply, which earns it the title of the country’s breadbasket.
Investment in Agriculture
To strengthen this role, the Minority Leader called for long-term investments in modern agricultural technologies and infrastructure, particularly in the animal industry. He emphasised that now is the time for intentional, transformative policies that will empower farmers, increase productivity, and potentially enable them to become billionaires.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin also praised the formation of the Northern Parliamentary Caucus by Rt Hon Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin. He described the move as crucial for giving the region a unified voice in parliament on development issues.
Confronting Long-Standing Challenges
While acknowledging the progress, he did not shy away from confronting the region’s persistent challenges. “We need to confront our realities,” he said, referring to the widespread poverty, poor road conditions, inadequate sanitation, and chronic power shortages affecting the region.
Currently, only 49% of households in northern Ghana have access to electricity, with the Upper West Region being the most underserved.
Addressing Infrastructure Deficits
The MP called for more substantial commitments from all stakeholders to address the infrastructure deficits that drive mass migration from the north to the south, due to a lack of opportunities. He argued that addressing these barriers could turn the north into a national anchor of growth and prosperity.
“As a leader in Parliament, I will push for radical interventions in infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and peacebuilding,” he declared. He stressed the urgency of acting swiftly and collaboratively for the region’s transformation.
Engaging the Youth
Mr. Afenyo-Markin also urged the youth to take an active role in shaping the region’s future. “The future of the north will be shaped by young people. They must rise, innovate, and pave the way towards a region that no longer symbolises poverty and squalor.”
The conference attracted a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, development professionals, youth leaders, and civil society members. It provided an opportunity for collective reflection on policy solutions and investment strategies aimed at transforming northern Ghana into a thriving centre of growth.
