The morning after the devastating rainstorm on May 22, 2025, Sawaliga Basic School in the Talensi District was left unrecognisable. What once was a vibrant school block was now filled with mangled roofing sheets, broken wooden beams, and scattered debris. The storm had not only left the children without a school but also endangered their lives.
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Seidu-Agongo
Seidu Agongo’s Heartfelt Response
When Seidu Agongo, a philanthropist and businessman, saw the viral photos of the storm’s aftermath, he was deeply moved. He could not bear to watch the suffering of the students, knowing they were left stranded in the debris. Agongo, feeling the weight of responsibility as a father figure to these children, said the images were not just pictures—they were his children, Ghana’s future, sitting and loitering in the dirt amidst broken materials. Without waiting for bureaucratic delays, Seidu Agongo immediately took action. He called contractors and set the process of rebuilding into motion.
A Miracle in Three Weeks
What followed was truly miraculous. Within just three weeks, the school was completely transformed. The once-destroyed building was now a modern, beautiful structure. The new roof gleamed in the sunlight, freshly painted walls brightened the classrooms, and sturdy floors replaced the debris-strewn ground. Students who had once studied under trees now walked through hallways filled with hope. This transformation, thanks to Seidu Agongo’s immediate intervention, gave them a new environment to thrive and prepare for their exams just weeks away.
Community’s Deep Gratitude to Seidu Agongo
The community’s appreciation for Seidu Agongo’s generosity was overwhelming. During the commissioning of the refurbished school, elders and residents praised him for his timely intervention. Seidu Agongo’s commitment to the students’ education and well-being was honoured with a citation, a sheep, and a smock—symbols of deep respect and gratitude for his compassionate action.
Restoring Education’s Foundation
While challenges like space constraints remained—three classes still shared one room—the foundation for learning had been restored. The students now had the hope of a better future, and the teachers had renewed purpose. Seidu Agongo’s work not only repaired a school but also reignited the community’s belief in the power of kindness and action. As he humbly stated, “Education is the foundation of our nation’s future, and if we can intervene to help, it helps.”
A Legacy of Compassion
The transformation of Sawaliga Basic School under Seidu Agongo’s guidance stands as a testament to the power of compassion and community action. His kindness turned what seemed like an impossible crisis into an inspiring story of resilience and hope. The students now walk into classrooms filled with potential, and their dreams of a brighter future have been restored. Seidu Agongo’s story reminds us all that sometimes, the most powerful changes come from the least expected places, and through kindness, lives can be transformed.
Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery, a Medical Doctor at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), recently warned the public about the dangers of lifestyle diseases, which are primarily caused by daily habits. He emphasised that maintaining healthy routines can help prevent a wide range of health problems, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
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Dr-Malcolm-Mambuoraa-Dery
Healthy Habits for Disease Prevention by 5 Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery
During an awareness session at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tamale, Dr. Dery explained how making small changes in daily habits can significantly improve overall health. He highlighted the importance of controlling one’s lifestyle to avoid developing chronic diseases. His advice centred around taking responsibility for one’s health through mindful choices and regular health monitoring.
The Importance of Regular Exercise
Dr. Malcolm Mambuoraa Dery encouraged the public to engage in daily physical activity, such as walking and jogging. Reducing long periods of sitting can help maintain a healthy body weight, reduce the risk of obesity, lower cholesterol levels, and improve both physical and mental strength. Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle.
Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Choices
In addition to exercise, Dr. Dery recommended specific dietary changes. He suggested eating foods low in carbohydrates and rich in protein. Reducing oil intake, while increasing the consumption of green leafy vegetables and fruits, is essential for long-term health. He also urged the public to avoid junk food, sugary drinks, and excessive salt or sugar in their meals.
Avoiding Harmful Habits
Dr. Dery strongly advised against smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, both of which contribute to several lifestyle diseases. Instead, he urged individuals to focus on healthy, balanced habits that promote overall wellness. Drinking plenty of water was another key recommendation for staying hydrated and supporting the body’s natural processes.
Regular Health Checkups
Finally, Dr. Dery emphasised the importance of regularly checking one’s health status to catch potential issues early. Early diagnosis allows individuals to address health problems before they develop into more serious conditions. Regular health checkups can significantly improve disease prevention and overall health management.
By adopting these simple yet effective lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing lifestyle diseases and improve their overall well-being.
On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Engage Now Africa – Ghana, in partnership with the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, successfully commissioned a solar mechanised borehole in Kandiga, located in the Kassena-Nankana West District of Ghana’s Upper East Region. This project is a vital step toward providing sustainable access to clean, safe water for underserved communities in the region.
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A Commitment to Sustainability and Public Health
The solar-powered borehole is designed to meet the daily water needs of Kandiga residents, ensuring that they have reliable access to clean water. By harnessing the power of solar energy, the system not only addresses the community’s water challenges but also promotes environmental sustainability and public health.
A Symbol of Hope and Progress
This initiative, spearheaded by Engage Now Africa and generously funded by the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, stands as a beacon of hope, dignity, and progress for the people of Kandiga. It is more than just a water source—it symbolises the positive impact that sustainable development can have on rural communities.
Gratitude to Our Partners and Donors
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, donors, and the local leadership whose unwavering support made this achievement possible. Together, we continue to make strides in improving the lives of vulnerable communities.
On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, Engage Now Africa, with generous support from the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, has completed a solar mechanised borehole at the Bornia CHPS Compound in the Kassena-Nankana West District, Upper East Region. This project represents a significant step forward in providing clean, accessible water to the local community.
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A Commitment to Sustainable Development
Executives from both organisations visited the site to assess the progress of the project and engage with local stakeholders. Their presence highlights a shared commitment to sustainable development and community well-being. Through their actions, they are demonstrating genuine care for the region and its people.
Clean Water, Dignity, and Healthcare in Bornia
The borehole project is more than just about providing clean water; it is about restoring dignity and enhancing healthcare services in a rural area. Access to clean water directly impacts public health, reducing waterborne diseases and providing a better quality of life for the community.
Supporting Long-Term Change
This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration between organisations dedicated to making a meaningful, lasting impact. The solar-powered system ensures that the community has reliable, sustainable access to water, reinforcing Engage Now Africa’s broader mission of supporting community development through innovation and care.
On June 24, 2025, Engage Now Africa officially inaugurated a new six-unit classroom block for Ayagitam Primary School, located in the Saboro community of Chiana, Kassena-Nankana West District, Upper East Region. This significant project is part of the NGO’s ongoing commitment to improving education for vulnerable communities by providing both resources and training.
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Ayagitam-Primary-School
Transforming a Challenging Learning Environment
Previously, Ayagitam Primary School struggled with makeshift shelters and old pavilions that hindered effective teaching and learning. The community had long sought better educational infrastructure, but efforts over the years had failed to bring about meaningful change.
Charles Bugani, Chairman of the School’s Management Committee and an alumnus of the school, explained that the poor infrastructure led to a decline in student enrolment. In his words, “When the NGO came to commission a borehole, we mentioned that our school was in bad condition. Upon seeing it, the NGO director remarked that she wouldn’t allow her child to study in such a place.”
A Community’s Dream Realised
The bleak state of the school became a catalyst for change. After a thorough inspection, Engage Now Africa took the necessary steps to begin a new chapter for the school. The result was a state-of-the-art six-unit classroom block that is set to serve as a beacon of hope for the community’s educational aspirations.
The newly built facilities include a library, a head teacher’s office, a staff standard room, and a mechanised borehole that provides water to the school and surrounding areas.
Ayagitam-Primary-School
Investing in Future Leaders – Ayagitam
Cecelia Amankwah, Engage Now Africa’s Country Director, shared the NGO’s vision for the project: “Our goal is to provide quality education infrastructure that nurtures future leaders. When children have the right environment, they can surpass all limits and lead transformation in their communities.”
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ASEA’s Role in Empowering the Community
Kimmarie Larsen, Chairperson of the ASEA Advancing Life Foundation, expressed her excitement about the positive impact of the project. “At ASEA, we believe in powering the potential of people, and that includes the people here in Ghana,” Larsen said. “Giving children the opportunity to learn is crucial for their brighter future.”
Her sentiments were echoed when she observed the joy of the mothers in the community. “Looking into the eyes of the mothers, it was beautiful to see their happiness knowing their children would receive an education. We are filled with gratitude to be here with the community, the leaders, and the parents who support their children’s education.”
A Celebratory Moment for the Saboro Community
The Saboro community couldn’t contain their excitement as women danced in celebration of the newly completed school. An elder from the community addressed the crowd, sharing the overwhelming sense of gratitude: “We asked for a six-unit classroom block, and we received a six-unit modern school complex. It’s more than we could have hoped for, and we cannot thank the donors enough for this beautiful project.”
This milestone represents not just a physical transformation of Ayagitam Primary School but a renewed sense of hope for the future of its students and the community as a whole.
Northern Ghana remains one of Africa’s most authentic and awe-inspiring destinations. Far from the crowded coasts and tourist-heavy cities, this region offers raw beauty, vibrant culture, deep history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re an adventurer, historian, nature lover, or cultural explorer, these 15 things to do in Northern Ghana will give you unforgettable experiences.
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Things to do in Northern Ghana
1. Explore Mole National Park – first of things to do in Northern Ghana
Mole is Ghana’s largest and most iconic wildlife reserve. You’ll encounter elephants bathing in waterholes, antelope grazing on open plains, baboons wandering through campgrounds, and hundreds of birds flitting through the trees. You can go on walking safaris—a rare treat in Africa—or hop in a 4×4 for guided game drives. Stay at Zaina Lodge, a luxurious tented lodge with views that overlook roaming wildlife from your balcony or the poolside bar. Mole National Park is the first on our list of things to do in Northern Ghana.
2. Visit the Larabanga Mosque
Next on the list of things to do in Northern Ghana is the 15th-century mud-and-stick mosque is one of the oldest in West Africa. Located near Mole National Park, the Larabanga Mosque is steeped in history and legend. Built in the Sudanese-Sahelian architectural style, it serves as a spiritual hub for the community. A local guide can explain its mysterious origin story and cultural importance—be sure to ask about the Quran that was supposedly divinely gifted.
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3. Discover the Mystic Stone
Just a few minutes from the mosque lies the Mystic Stone, said to have supernatural powers. Legend has it that colonial road builders moved it to make way for a road. Still, it returned to its original spot overnight. Locals believe it holds spiritual power and continue to revere it as a symbol of their cultural resilience. A brief visit here is great for reflection, storytelling, and photography.
4. Tour the Tamale Central Market
No visit to Tamale is complete without getting lost in the Central Market. Bursting with colour and life, the market sells everything from woven smocks and beads to spices, produce, and leather goods. It’s also a great place to try Northern delicacies like TZ, guinea fowl, and spicy okra soup. Expect warm smiles, loud bargaining, and a sense of community that’s deeply rooted in Northern culture. this is definitely an important part of the things to do in Northern Ghana.
5. Learn Smock Weaving in Daboya or Gburimani
The smock (locally called fugu) is Northern Ghana’s most iconic traditional garment. In towns like Daboya, you can meet master weavers who turn hand-dyed cotton into stunning patterns using wooden looms. Witness the step-by-step process from spinning to stitching. Some places even allow you to try weaving yourself or purchase a smock to take home, perfect for storytelling souvenirs.
6. Watch Traditional Drumming and Dancing
Northern Ghana has a rich musical tradition, anchored by instruments such as the talking drum (lunga). In towns like Tamale and Walewale, you can attend cultural nights with live drumming and dance performances. Many are tied to ceremonies, festivals, or royal events, so be sure to check local calendars for details. These performances are intense, emotional, and unforgettable.
Bugum Chogu
7. Hike the Gambaga Escarpment
This natural rock formation offers breathtaking views of the White Volta Valley and the surrounding savannah below. Hikers can explore trails through rocky cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient caves. Some local guides even offer camping experiences under the stars. It’s a paradise for nature photographers and adventurers looking to escape the beaten path.
8. Visit the Paga Crocodile Pond
Unlike most places in Africa, Paga’s crocodiles are revered, not feared. Locals believe they are spiritual ancestors, and remarkably, these crocs peacefully coexist with humans. With the help of a guide, you can touch or sit near one—a surreal experience that defies instinct but remains safe and respectful. Pair it with a visit to the nearby chief’s palace and traditional huts for a deeper understanding of the context. This trip is worth adding to the list of things to do in Northern Ghana.
9. Explore the Nalerigu Slave Defence Wall
Built by Mamprugu warriors centuries ago, the Nalerigu Defence Wall helped protect locals from slave raiders. Though partially eroded, its massive stones still stand as a symbol of strength and resistance. Local historians and guides will share the story of how this fortress played a role in safeguarding lives and shaping the region’s history.
10. Discover the Tongo Hills and Shrines
The Tongo Hills, located near Bolgatanga, are more than a dramatic landscape—they’re home to sacred caves and spiritual shrines. Only accessible with a traditional priest, visitors learn about ancient beliefs, sacrifices, and cosmology of the Talensi people. Modest attire and respectful behaviour are required. The stories are raw, and the experience is deeply immersive.
11. Relax by the White Volta River
The White Volta River snakes through many Northern communities, offering opportunities to relax, explore, or connect with nature. Take a canoe ride with a local fisherman, picnic on the banks, or just sit quietly and watch life go by. Some eco-lodges now offer riverfront stays and birdwatching tours, making this a peaceful detour in your journey.
12. Try Authentic Northern Ghanaian Cuisine
Another of the things to do in Northern Ghana. Northern Ghana’s cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and rich in cultural significance. From Tuo Zaafi (TZ) and groundnut soups to guinea fowl stew and millet porridge, dishes here are often spiced with dawadawa (fermented locust bean) and served with love. Look for local “chop bars” or ask your guide for recommendations on where to eat for the most authentic experience.
13. Attend a Festival
Key among the things to do in Northern Ghana is Festivals. Festivals in Northern Ghana are dramatic, colourful, and deeply rooted in oral history and community spirit. Some major ones include:
Bugum Chogu is one of the Top 15 things to do in Northern Ghana
Bugum Chugu (Fire Festival): Celebrated with flaming torches and tribal dances.
Damba Festival: A blend of Islamic traditions and royal pageantry.
Samanpiid: The Samanpiid Festival is an annual celebration observed by the Kusasi people in the Upper East Region of Ghana, particularly in Bawku and surrounding communities. Established in 1987, the festival is held to give thanks to God and the ancestors for a successful harvest season. It is marked by vibrant traditional clothing, cultural displays, drumming, dancing, and speeches by chiefs and community leaders. Samanpiid also serves as a unifying event that promotes peace, cultural identity, and development among the Kusasi people, attracting dignitaries and visitors from across the country and beyond.
Feok: The Feok Festival is a vibrant annual celebration held by the Builsa people of the Upper East Region of Ghana, particularly in towns like Sandema. Rooted in history and resistance, the festival commemorates the Builsa warriors’ victorious defence against slave raiders, especially the infamous Babatu in the 19th century. Marked by traditional war dances, drumming, colourful attire, and dramatic reenactments of battle scenes, Feok is both a tribute to ancestral bravery and a symbol of unity and cultural pride. It usually takes place in December, drawing locals and visitors alike to witness this powerful expression of heritage and identity.
Fao: The Fao Festival is a traditional celebration held annually by the people of Navrongo in the Upper East Region of Ghana, typically in January. It is rooted in ancient spiritual customs and agricultural cycles, serving both as a thanksgiving for a successful harvest and a rite of purification for the community. The festival features vibrant processions, ancestral sacrifices, drumming, dancing, and displays of traditional attire. A unique aspect of Fao is its solemn spiritual rituals, which are observed with deep reverence, followed by festive communal gatherings that foster unity and cultural pride among the people of Navrongo and their guests.
Festivals are great times to visit as you’ll witness Northern Ghana at its most vibrant.
Feok Festival is one of the Top 15 things to do in Northern Ghana
14. Shop for Leather Goods and Beads
Handcrafted leather sandals, purses, belts, and colourful glass beads are produced across the north. Visit craft markets in Tamale or Bolga to meet artisans, see workshops, and purchase high-quality goods. It’s an excellent way to support local makers and take home authentic souvenirs. What is an epic thrill without souvenirs? This is a must on the 15 things to do in Northern Ghana.
15. Visit a Local NGO or Community Project
Make your trip meaningful by connecting with community-drivenorganisations. Whether it’s reforestation, youth empowerment, girls’ education, or sustainable farming, many NGOs welcome short-term visitors. You’ll gain insight into local development challenges and learn how people are collaborating to address them. Everyone is trying to make the world better, therefore, amongst the things to do in Northern Ghana is to visit a local NGO or Community Project.
Final Thoughts
Northern Ghana isn’t just a destination—it’s a deep and lasting experience. Its beauty lies in its raw landscapes, untouched traditions, and the strength of its people. If you’re looking to discover Ghana beyond the coastline, this is where the soul of the country truly shines. Remember the top 15 things to do in Northern Ghana are just a tip of what is there to explore.
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Professor Samuel Alhassan Issah, Dean of the Faculty of Ghanaian Languages Education at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has made a significant contribution to his hometown, Tampion Kukuo, in the Northern Region, addressing a critical educational infrastructure challenge.
A Community Facing Educational Infrastructure Challenges
Tampion Kukuo, like many communities in northern Ghana, has long struggled with inadequate educational facilities. The construction of a three-unit classroom block, intended to alleviate overcrowding in the local school, had stalled for years due to a lack of funds.
Mobilising Support for Change
As a product of the community’s primary school, Prof. Issah was deeply committed to improving the educational conditions in Tampion Kukuo. Through his network of friends, he raised GHC 15,000 to fund the roofing of the classroom block. The funds were handed over at a ceremony attended by chiefs, elders, teachers, headteachers, parents, and residents, marking a moment of celebration and appreciation.
A Game-Changer for Local Education
The donation was widely welcomed by the community, especially local education stakeholders. Mr. Issah Sulemana, Headteacher of the Primary School, expressed his gratitude, explaining that the lack of classroom space had forced some pupils to sit under trees. In contrast, others were crammed into small rooms. “This support from Prof. Issah is a game-changer,” he said, highlighting the positive impact the project would have on the learning environment.
Additional Support for Education
Prof. Gazali Issahaku, Principal of Bagabaga College of Education, was also present and pledged to support the school with teacher trainees to improve the quality of teaching further. Meanwhile, Madam Monica Issah, a GES staff member, raised an important point regarding lactating teachers, encouraging them to seek appropriate support rather than bringing babies into classrooms, as this could compromise the quality of education.
A Personal Reflection and Motivation
Reflecting on his motivation, Prof. Issah shared how his early experiences in the community, including the struggle of walking several kilometres to school, shaped his desire to give back. “I am who I am today because of this community. It is only right that I give back and help create better opportunities for the younger generation,” he said. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the friends and colleagues who helped make this initiative possible.
A Call to Action for Broader Change
Prof. Issah’s intervention highlights the ongoing issue of inadequate educational infrastructure in rural and peri-urban areas across Ghana. Many schools remain in desperate need of classrooms, furniture, and teaching materials. The story of Tampion Kukuo serves as a timely reminder for other influential individuals to invest in their communities and contribute to bridging Ghana’s educational gap. By ensuring quality learning conditions, such community-led efforts play a critical role in shaping the future of education in Ghana.
Women farmers in the Savelugu and Nanton Districts of the Northern Region participated in a forum designed to improve their understanding of government agricultural policies and programmes. The event, organised by the Savannah Women Integrated Development Agency (SWIDA-Ghana) with support from the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), featured participatory dialogue sessions, policy presentations, and discussions on challenges faced by women farmers.
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Collaborative Discussions for Policy Improvement – SWIDA-Ghana
The forum brought together representatives from women’s farmer groups in 10 communities, including Bihinaayili, Tampion Gushee, Looni, and Saamkpem, among others. It was part of SWIDA-Ghana’s Inclusive Community Policy Dialogues and Stakeholder Engagement Fora on Agricultural Policy Barriers, aimed at promoting women’s economic security in Northern Ghana.
Addressing Systemic and Policy Barriers
Hajia Alima Sagito-Saeed, Executive Director of SWIDA-Ghana, emphasised the importance of the forum in deepening participants’ understanding of systemic and policy-level barriers that affect agriculture. She also highlighted the goal of documenting community-driven recommendations to improve agricultural policies and foster stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
Government Initiatives for Sustainable Agriculture
Mr. Kojo Inusah from the Savelugu Municipal Directorate’s Department of Agriculture provided a training session on government initiatives, particularly the “Feed Ghana” project, aimed at boosting productivity and ensuring food security. He encouraged women farmers to form or maintain groups to access these initiatives and improve their agricultural practices.
Positive Feedback and Future Engagement
Madam Mary Amadu, a participant from Bihinaayili, praised SWIDA-Ghana and its partners for organising the forum, noting that it would play a key role in promoting inclusive and sustainable agriculture, especially in rural areas.
