Month: July 2025

NDA Acting CEO Calls for Robust Development Coordination Framework for Northern Ghana

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.

Tamale Metropolis to Sustain Order Following Successful Decongestion Exercise

The Mayor of Tamale, Hon. Adam Abubakari Takoro, has reaffirmed the Metropolitan Assembly’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order following the successful execution of a decongestion exercise across the city’s central business district.

Addressing stakeholders after the operation, Hon. Takoro commended the efforts of all involved and announced the deployment of a well-trained, multi-agency task force to enforce the new city directives.

“Our goal is to ensure that Tamale remains clean, orderly, and accessible to everyone,” he stated. “The task force will work with firmness and fairness to maintain the gains we’ve made.”

Multi-Sectoral Task Force in Action

The task force includes personnel from the Ghana Police Service, National Security, City Guards, Assembly Members, and other relevant stakeholders. Their mission is to prevent a return to the previous state of congestion and disorganisation that affected both pedestrian and vehicular movement in Tamale.

Call for Public Cooperation

The Mayor called on residents, traders, hawkers, and transport operators to fully cooperate with the task force, noting that urban order is a shared responsibility.

“This effort is not about punishment—it’s about progress. With everyone’s support, we can create a Tamale that reflects excellence in urban management,” he said.

A Vision for a Model City

The decongestion initiative is part of the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly’s broader strategy to transform the city into a model of sustainable urban planning and inclusive development.

The Assembly’s goals include:

  • Clean and well-managed markets and transport terminals
  • Improved mobility and pedestrian safety
  • Enhanced environmental sanitation
  • A more business-friendly and tourist-attractive city environment

Hon. Takoro emphasised that sustainability will guide every step of the process and assured the public of ongoing engagement, transparency, and responsiveness in implementing the city’s vision.

“We are building a Tamale that works for all—residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

REGSEC Endorses Ya-Na’s Ban on Fire Festival in Tamale and Sagnarigu

The Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has expressed its full support for the decision by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ndan Ya-Na Abukari II, to ban the celebration of this year’s Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu) in Tamale and Sagnarigu.

In a statement dated July 3, 2025, REGSEC commended the Ya-Na for the proactive decision, which aligns with the Council’s assessment based on current security intelligence and prior discussions with the Dagbon Traditional Authority.

Strict Compliance Urged

REGSEC is calling on all individuals, groups, and communities within the affected areas to adhere to the directive strictly. The Council warned that any violation of the ban will attract firm and decisive action from security agencies.

“This directive is critical to maintaining the peace and ensuring the safety of residents. We will not hesitate to act against any attempts to flout the ban,” the statement emphasised.

Security Measures in Place

According to REGSEC, the ban was necessitated by credible intelligence indicating the potential for unrest if the festival were allowed to proceed in Tamale and Sagnarigu. As such, enhanced security operations have been implemented to prevent any breaches of the peace.

Appeal for Public Cooperation

REGSEC has appealed to the public to cooperate with authorities in enforcing the ban, underscoring that peace and security are collective responsibilities.

“By working together, we can protect lives, preserve property, and sustain the hard-won peace in our region,” the statement concluded.

Savannah Region Peace Council Inaugurated to Tackle Regional Conflicts

The National Peace Council has officially reconstituted and inaugurated the Savannah Region Peace Council, assigning it the mandate to prevent, manage, and resolve conflicts while promoting sustainable peace throughout the region.

The newly sworn-in 13-member council is chaired by Reverend Father Lazarus Zeledeme Annyereh. It includes representatives from religious groups, traditional authorities, and other key stakeholders.

During the ceremony held in Damongo, Mr. Salisu Bi-awuribe, the Savannah Regional Minister, charged the council to prioritise efforts that foster unity and accelerate development.

“Peace is the foundation of development. The council must urgently address key sources of tension in the region,” he said.

He identified five critical areas that require immediate attention:

  • Chieftaincy disputes
  • Land and boundary conflicts
  • Ethnic tensions
  • Political party-related divisions
  • Multiple land disputes

Numo Blafo Akotia Omaetu III, a Member of the National Peace Council, also addressed the gathering and urged the newly inaugurated council to work collaboratively with all relevant groups to preserve peace and cohesion in the region.

“Peacebuilding is not a solo effort. It requires teamwork, honesty, and commitment to justice,” he noted.

The inauguration marks a renewed effort to institutionalise peace and dialogue in a region historically impacted by land and leadership disputes.

Damongo | Savannah Region.

UNFPA Launches Complaint Dashboard and Scorecard to Improve Public Service Delivery in Northern Ghana

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has launched a digital complaint dashboard and service provider scorecard mechanism aimed at enhancing public service delivery in the Upper East Region.

The pilot initiative, which forms part of a broader UN Peacebuilding Fund project, is designed to allow citizens—especially in vulnerable communities—to conveniently lodge complaints and provide feedback via a web platform and a mobile app available on the Google Play Store.

Digital Tools for Accountability and Social Cohesion

The two-year project, titled “Enhancing Social Cohesion and Social Contract through Empowerment of Women and Youth in Three Northern Regions of Ghana,” is jointly implemented by UNFPA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It covers the Garu, Bawku West, and Bongo Districts, in partnership with the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council and the Youth Harvest Foundation Ghana.

Speaking at a stakeholder workshop in Bongo, Selina Owusu, Gender Analyst at UNFPA, said the initiative responds to growing concerns around social exclusion, service gaps, and the potential for extremist influence in border communities.

“Ghana has not experienced direct attacks by violent extremists, but threats from neighbouring Sahelian countries demand that we act proactively,” she said. “Improving service delivery and creating accountability mechanisms is essential to prevent the marginalised from being exploited.”

Scorecard Mechanism to Empower Citizens and Institutions

The platform provides channels for citizens to report issues with service delivery. It provides service providers with a scorecard to track their responsiveness and performance. It currently targets four critical sectors: health, security, social services, and social justice.

“We are institutionalising a mechanism where people can access services, report lapses, and expect timely responses,” Owusu added.

The system is designed to improve transparency, promote inter-agency collaboration, and harmonise complaint handling across sectors.

Local Ownership and Future Scaling

Senanu Agbozo, the system’s developer and consultant, explained that the centralised dashboard allows for real-time monitoring, data collection, and follow-up by multiple agencies.

Stakeholders praised the tool’s potential. Ms Franklina Amoah, a Public Health Nurse from the Bongo District Health Directorate, noted:

“This tool strengthens our relationship with the communities. It helps us become more accountable and deliver better services.”

UNFPA has trained local institutions on how to use the platform, and efforts are underway to ensure that community members are aware of the system and how to access it.

Owusu encouraged district assemblies to adopt the model and scale it across other sectors for long-term impact.

“Sustainable peace begins with trust, and trust grows when people know they can be heard and served.”

Bongo | Upper East Region.

Ummy Relief Foundation Leads Anti-Plastic Waste Campaign in Tamale Markets

In a bold move to combat plastic pollution, Ummy Relief Foundation, in collaboration with Technology Without Borders, Rotary EndPlasticSoup, Regional Group, and Neighbourhood Forest, has launched a public sensitisation campaign targeting market traders and shop owners in Tamale.

The campaign forms part of the week-long Eco-Plastics Week Celebration, aimed at raising awareness of plastic pollution and encouraging responsible waste disposal practices in the Tamale Metropolis.

Tackling Plastic Waste at the Source

With a specific focus on hotspots like the Tamale Central Market and Aboabo Market, the campaign educated traders on the dangers of improper disposal of non-biodegradable materials, such as polythene bags and sachet water rubbers, which commonly clog drains and litter public spaces.

Volunteers and team members from the Foundation visited the markets to educate traders on practical eco-friendly habits, such as reducing the use of single-use plastics, reusing containers, and properly disposing of waste.

“Plastic waste has become a major environmental challenge, especially in our markets,” said Mr. Abdul-Mumin Alhassan, a representative of Ummy Relief Foundation. “We are here to empower the people—especially traders—to understand their role in keeping our environment clean.”

Royal Endorsement for Environmental Action

Before the outreach, the team paid a courtesy call on the Dakpema of Tamale, Naa Fuseini Bawa, to seek his blessing and support for the initiative.

The chief praised the initiative as a timely intervention to address the city’s poor sanitation.

“This campaign is a critical step towards building a cleaner and healthier Tamale Metropolis,” Naa Fuseini Bawa said.

Traders Welcome the Initiative

Many market women and traders expressed their appreciation for the campaign and called for more frequent engagement.

“We hardly get education like this,” said Madam Asana Issah, a vegetable seller at Aboabo Market. “The lack of waste bins and public education has made things worse here. We need more of this and support with waste bins.”

The campaign is part of Ummy Relief Foundation’s broader environmental agenda to support government efforts in improving sanitation and reducing plastic waste across Ghana.

Tamale | Northern Region.

FONAR Mobilises Schoolchildren to Fight Desertification in Talensi

Pupils of Baare Primary School in Ghana’s Talensi District marked this year’s World Desertification and Drought Day by participating in a tree pruning exercise aimed at promoting environmental restoration.

The event was organised by the Forum for Natural Regeneration (FONAR), an environmental NGO dedicated to land restoration and climate resilience. It brought together teachers, community leaders, development partners, and the media to raise awareness of the increasing threat of desertification, drought, and land degradation.

The initiative was supported by the Heidehof Foundation of Germany and the Awaken Trees Foundation of Austria.

Urgent Call for Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration

Speaking at the event, Mr. Sumaila S. Saaka, Executive Director of FONAR, called for the urgent adoption of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) as a cost-effective and community-driven strategy to restore degraded lands and strengthen climate resilience.

“Over 35 per cent of Ghana’s land—especially in the five Northern Savannah Regions—is vulnerable to desertification due to overgrazing, unsustainable land use, bushfires, and illegal mining,” he said.

Citing the World Bank, Mr. Saaka noted that Ghana loses more than 315,000 hectares of forest annually, with drought-related crop revenue losses reaching GH¢22.2 billion in 2024 alone.

While acknowledging national efforts like the Tree for Life Reforestation initiative and Ghana’s AFR100 pledge to restore two million hectares of land, Mr. Saaka emphasised that:

“Tree planting alone is not enough. FMNR is a cost-effective and community-friendly approach that can achieve faster and more sustainable results.”

Youth at the Centre of Restoration

Mr. Saaka also highlighted FONAR’s project, “Regreening Communities through School Kids FMNR Eco-Clubs,” which is being implemented in 10 basic schools in the Talensi District. Under the initiative, over 200 pupils—known as ‘Eco-Warriors’—are being trained in sustainable land management and environmental stewardship.

He urged schools to adopt water-saving practices like rainwater harvesting and called for stronger partnerships to support future generations:

“The future of our land depends on the decisions we make today. By empowering young people, we are building a strong foundation for climate action and food security.”

Community Leaders Back FONAR’s Work

Baare Primary School Headteacher, Mr. Johnson Kolan, praised FONAR, noting that most schools in the district had experienced damage from windstorms linked to desertification.

Mr. Joseph Zida, Talensi District Human Resource Officer, echoed concerns about recent erratic rainfall patterns in June and urged more support for NGOs like FONAR.

Mr. Robert Abeero Alpha, District Director of NADMO, described FONAR’s FMNR approach as the “most suitable strategy” for districts such as Talensi, where irregular weather patterns are becoming more frequent.

CSIR-SARI Trains Young Agripreneurs in Hybrid Maize Seed Production

Nyankpala (N/R), July 3 – Ten young agripreneurs have completed a five-month intensive training programme in hybrid maize seed production, aimed at building local capacity for high-quality seed development.

The trainees, drawn from nine seed companies, received both classroom instruction and practical field demonstrations. Many of them are already preparing to launch their hybrid maize seed businesses.

The training was organized by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI), under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), and funded through the World Bank-supported Food Systems Resilience Programme (FSRP).

Dr. Gloria Boakyewaa Adu, lead facilitator of the programme, said the training was efficient.

“We didn’t just teach theory. We walked the fields. Trainees learned to identify male and female rows, follow planting patterns, practise detasseling and rogueing, and manage irrigation and pest control,” she explained.

She said participants now have the skills to produce hybrid maize seed with confidence independently.

Mr. George Prah, representing MoFA and FSRP, stressed the growing demand for hybrid maize across Ghana and beyond.

“This is not just about producing seed; it’s about creating businesses and opportunities. The market for hybrid maize is expanding rapidly. We need you to step in, produce quality seeds, and learn to brand and market them effectively,” he told the graduates.

Dr. Francis Kusi, Director of CSIR-SARI, reaffirmed the institute’s dedication to youth empowerment and agricultural innovation.

“We are proud of this partnership with FSRP and MoFA. We want you, our trainees, to consider yourselves as partners in progress. Link up with agribusinesses, leverage what you’ve learned, and help Ghana achieve food security and build resilient farming systems,” he said.

The trainees expressed their excitement and confidence as they graduated.

Trisha Akoriba Yusontaa from the Upper West Region said, “As a young woman, I never thought I could become a seed producer. This training has given me confidence and direction. I am going to put everything I have learned here into practice. I know I can now become a big seed producer in my area.”

Francis Anarfo from the Upper East Region said the experience had transformed his understanding of agriculture.

“I now understand the science behind seed production and have started preparing my field for the next planting season,” he noted.

CSIR-SARI and MoFA state that they will continue to provide technical support to the graduates, ensuring their efforts translate into viable seed enterprises capable of meeting both local and national demand.

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