The Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga is currently facing a significant shortage of health professionals. This shortage significantly affects the standard of healthcare the region provides. As the primary referral centre for more than 1.3 million individuals from within and beyond the area, the facility struggles to function with a severely understaffed team.

The hospital was founded as a clinic in 1946. Over time, it has grown into a 265-bed referral facility. Despite its size, it is currently run by only 760 employees. This number includes just one radiographer and one gynaecologist, a situation that hospital authorities have described as dire.

Dr. Aiden Suntaa Saanwie is the hospital’s Medical Director. He expressed his concern about the impact of the staff shortage on current health workers.

“Our major issue when we went round was staffing. We have received a lot of facilities, and we need the recommended staff to be able to use these facilities to the benefit of the people, and that is a key challenge. For instance, we don’t have a biomedical engineer. When the machines break down, we have to get someone from either Accra, Tamale, or Kumasi to come and work on them. Some of them even come in and end up worsening the problem because they are not certified people.” he explained.

Dr Saanwie addressed the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health during their visit. He highlighted the shortage of staff housing as a significant factor in the issue at hand. He emphasized that numerous healthcare professionals are forced to lease pricey apartments in Bolgatanga. This happens because of the lack of available institutional housing.

“Staffing for our doctors and nurses is among the challenges. High rents in town make it challenging. If you don’t have accommodation and you want to go out and rent, you’re faced with difficulties,” Dr Saanwie explained.

Dr Saanwie expressed gratitude to the Committee for their visit. He urged the government, through them, to provide support in constructing a chest ward. He also asked for help in renovating the maternity block at the hospital.

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health is headed by Dr Mark Kurt Nawaane, Member of Parliament for Nabdam. They recently visited the hospital. This visit was part of their nationwide tour of teaching and regional hospitals. The delegation also included Patrick Boakye-Yiadom, who is the MP for Obuasi East. It also included Anthony Mwinkaara Sumah, the MP for Nadowli-Kaleo. Lastly, Kingsley Agyemang, the MP for Abuakwa South, was part of the delegation.

During the visit, the MPs had the opportunity to tour important departments. They witnessed healthcare operations firsthand. They also discussed with hospital management to gain a deeper understanding of the obstacles hindering efficient service delivery.

Dr. Nawaane raised a red flag about the issue. He urged the government to offer unique incentives. These incentives would entice healthcare providers to underprivileged areas. He proposed that the Ministry of Health and Finance collaborate. They should promptly approve funds for medical personnel. These personnel are interested in serving in isolated and impoverished regions.

“We’ve been to different wards, and the problem of staffing is number one, and the government needs to do something about it. The financial clearance that they need, the government has to look at it very well and probably look at these remote areas. The financial clearance can be discriminated in such a way that people who want to come to areas like Bolga should have their financial clearance a bit early. How can the who of Upper East region have 1 radiographer and 1 gynecologist when they need about 6,” he stated.

Additionally, the Committee stressed the importance of promptly addressing the logistical and infrastructure deficiencies at the hospital. These issues have been detrimental to the provision of high-quality healthcare services. Dr Nawaane acknowledged the management’s efforts in maintaining the facility. He also urged them to find ways to increase revenue. This would allow the hospital to generate income.

“They are talking about staff attrition. When they post people here, within two or two years, they leave. You can post a hundred staff here, but without motivation, they will leave. I believe that if the hospital’s IGF is good, they will be able to some extent assist in this staff motivation and reduce staff attrition,” he suggested.

Dr. Justice Aduko, Assembly Member for the Soe-Yipaala Electoral Area, recently addressed the lack of a recognized health facility in the Soe area. He spoke during an interview on Bolgataga’s A1 Radio. He emphasized the community’s difficulties in accessing healthcare and education and his proactive efforts to address these challenges.

Dr Aduko has played a critical role in bringing the health centre initiative to fruition. The project was initially started under previous leadership.

“In terms of healthcare, we are also challenged. The entire Soe does not have a health centre in its name. In fact, I came and initiated one. Though the idea started with my predecessors, I took it up and made it a reality.” He mentioned.

Despite the strides made, the centre still awaits integration into the municipality’s official pool of health institutions. Credit must be given to the Municipal Health Director. He has provided unwavering support by supplying personnel to ensure smooth operations. At the same time, efforts towards complete absorption are ongoing.

The Assembly Member expressed concerns about the dire situation in education. Despite some existing school infrastructure, it falls short of meeting the demands of an expanding student population. He further noted that numerous obstacles, besides physical facilities, impede educational progress in the region.

“Education is also very, very terrible. Yes, of course, we have some school infrastructure, but it’s not enough for the pupils, which poses serious educational challenges. Beyond the infrastructure, there are other issues confronting the educational sector.” He further stated in the interview.

In pursuit of enhancing student achievement, he has implemented various individual endeavours. One such effort is the “One B.E.C.E. Candidate, One Math Set” project, which equips students with math sets and stationery to prepare for the BECE. This program covers both Soe and Yipaala and aims to inspire candidates while alleviating the financial strain on their parents.

In addition, an annual award ceremony acknowledges high-performing BECE candidates. These candidates receive scores ranging from 6 to 15 on their aggregates.

Those who achieve aggregates ranging from 6 to 15 on the BECE are gathered and presented with awards. The initiative provides motivational sessions for students before their exams. It also supports teachers in arranging additional classes leading up to the BECE.

“We have also been supporting the teachers anytime BECE is approaching, to organize special extra classes for candidates.”

He acknowledges the issue of student hunger during exams. He is also investigating methods to offer breakfast for candidates before they take their tests. The Assembly Member shared his current discussions with Nestlé Ghana. They are exploring a potential partnership and financial support. Additionally, he holds an annual end-of-year event to recognize and motivate teachers for their hard work.

Dr. Aduko provides guidance and support for senior high school graduates who struggle to pursue higher education. He urges individuals to support his efforts to enhance the standard of living in Soe-Yipaala. He calls on organizations and corporate bodies to assist, particularly in terms of health and education.

He continued to urge individuals to join and show their support for these efforts.

Adam Yaminu Kasim, the Regional Manager of the Rent Control Department in Upper East, mentions a critical issue. Tenants and landlords often face excessive advanced payments required by landlords. This has caused difficulties for many tenants. They cannot afford such large upfront costs. These costs often do not correspond with the quality or worth of the rented properties. Unfortunately, this mismatch between rental fees and property conditions is a persistent concern in the region and nationwide.

One of the most prevalent concerns for tenants and landlords is rental payments. Landlords may often require a significant upfront payment, which can prove to be a major obstacle for many tenants.

During a recent interview on A1 Radio in Bolgatanga, monitored by www.thesavannaonline.com, he addressed the increasing tensions and anxieties surrounding rent fees. He also highlighted the issue of certain landlords disregarding rent regulations.

Mr Kasim emphasized the importance of involving the Rent Control Department early in the rental process. He encouraged tenants to report any suspected irregularities or exploitative practices. This is particularly important when faced with exceptionally high rent demands. However, he acknowledged that numerous tenants hesitate to contact the department.

“Mostly, what we urge tenants to do is, at least sometimes, when you go to a place and inspect it, and the figure is a bit outrageous or too high, you can draw Rent Control’s attention.”…He narrated.

The Rent Control Act governs rental practices in Ghana. Landlords must register their properties before making them available to the public. This process enables the department to determine and approve a reasonable rental rate. Unfortunately, some landlords ignore this obligation and only approach the department when conflicts arise.

“As a landlord or landlady, under the act we are currently operating with—Act 220—even before you put up the premises, once you have the intention of renting it, you have to come and register it with Rent Control. That way, Rent Control is empowered to move in after construction is completed to carry out the assessment and issue a certificate for the appropriate rent.”He further stated.

In addition, Mr. Kasim emphasized the purpose of the Rent Control Department, which is to assist tenants and landlords. The department acts as a neutral entity, providing guidance and settling rental conflicts. However, it has faced challenges in fulfilling its duties due to limited resources. Only five or six officers are responsible for the entire region. As a result, the department has struggled to educate the public and promptly address concerns adequately. Education is a key aspect of the mandate of the outfit. Yet, limited resources prevent Rent Control from fully fulfilling it.

The regional manager emphasized the importance of seeking help from the Rent Control Department early on in any rental situation. It is better to tackle concerns promptly rather than waiting for disputes to worsen.

He encouraged individuals not to hesitate in seeking assistance. The Rent Control team is available to offer guidance whenever needed.

Mr Kasim emphasized that the landlord must adhere to legal procedures when evicting tenants.

“There are laws guiding how a tenant should be evicted. A landlord or landlady cannot just get up and evict you…I encourage all tenants who think they have issues with their landlords to be bold and come forward,” he added.

Today, on Monday, April 28, 2025, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will continue his mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing Bawku conflict between the two opposing factions.

According to a press release dated April 15, 2025, the Asantehene has officially declared that mediation talks will be held at his palace in Kumasi from April 28 to May 1 in order to address the Bawku conflicts.

President John Mahama has assured that the Asantehene will lead the ongoing peace process as part of broader national efforts to restore calm in the troubled region.

Many Ghanaians, particularly the vulnerable residents of Bawku and its neighboring areas, are placing their hopes on the Asantehene’s mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. Women and children, who this turmoil has significantly impacted, are especially hopeful that a lasting solution will be achieved through this process.

On this day, the 28th of April, Minister John Abdulai Jinapor of Energy and Green Transition rejected claims spreading on social media about his supposed statement labeling 70% of Tamale residents as electricity thieves.

Mr Jinapor has released a press statement this morning, denouncing the reports as “entirely false, contrived and baseless,” He has appealed to the public to pay no attention to these allegations.

He underscored that the audio-visual recordings would prove that he never called the people of Tamale power thieves during his visit.

Mr Jinapor further elaborated on his remarks, stating that he had raised apprehension over the significant ATC&C losses in the NEDCo operational area.

The losses were pointed out as the highest in the area, and they have played a significant role in causing frequent power outages.

“For the avoidance of doubt, technical and collection losses have nothing to do with power theft but rather signify the inefficiencies of the utility company,” he stated.

The Minister emphasized the necessity for immediate changes in the power sector in Tamale, stressing the importance of both substantial investments and operational efficiency to address the current difficulties.

According to him, it is imperative to make enhancements in revenue collection and technical operations in order to ensure a dependable, steady and uninterrupted electricity supply for the residents of Tamale.

Mr Jinapor’s proposed actions demonstrate a larger mission to improve energy distribution throughout the Northern regions.

As he wrapped up his statement, Mr Jinapor reiterated his profound admiration and dedication to the people of Tamale, referring to them as his fellow community members.

“Let me finally assure the chiefs, elders and people of Tamale of my utmost respect and reverence to them and will never use derogatory words to describe my kinsmen,” he said.

His forceful response seems to prioritize maintaining the trust of the community while tackling the technical obstacles in the local energy distribution system.

Doctors at Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH) have ended their strike and resumed complete services after intervention by the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya Naa Abukari II, and discussions with Health Minister Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh.

The doctors had withdrawn their services on April 23, 2025, following an incident during the health minister’s visit to the hospital the previous day. The strike was triggered when members of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA) raised concerns about persistent operational issues and other challenges hindering effective healthcare delivery.

The suspension of services disrupted both routine and emergency operations at the hospital. In response, the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health and a delegation from Ya Naa Abukari II engaged with the hospital’s leadership to mediate a resolution.

Following consultations with the National Executive Council of the GMA, emergency services were partially restored at TTH from 2 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2025. On the same day, a meeting between the health minister and the doctors was facilitated by the GMA.

During the meeting, Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh expressed regret over the ongoing challenges at the hospital and the events leading to the strike. He reassured the doctors that measures had been implemented to address their concerns, including providing necessary medical equipment and supplies.

After these discussions, the doctors convened an emergency meeting on April 26, 2025, where they voted to call off the strike. In a statement, the GMA directed all doctors to resume complete duties immediately.

The GMA also pledged to continue engaging with the hospital’s management, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders to address the longstanding healthcare delivery issues. The association urged the hospital leadership to be more transparent about the institution’s challenges and appealed to the media to report responsibly on health matters.

While expressing appreciation for Ya Naa Abukari II’s role in resolving the matter, the GMA warned that they may consider further actions if logistical and equipment challenges persist. The association reiterated its commitment to improving healthcare at Tamale Teaching Hospital.

The government has revised the curfew hours in Bawku Municipality and surrounding areas in the Upper East Region. Starting Friday, April 25, 2025, the new curfew will be from 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.

This decision was made by the Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, following recommendations from the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and formalized through an Executive Instrument.

The curfew was initially imposed in February 2025 after a surge in violence related to a long-standing chieftaincy conflict between the Kusasi and Mamprusi communities. The unrest led to fatalities, injuries, and heightened insecurity, prompting swift action from security forces to restore order.

The government has called on chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, the youth, and residents to act with restraint and resolve disputes peacefully.

Despite the revised curfew, the ban on the possession of weapons, ammunition, and other offensive items remains in effect. The Ministry has warned that anyone caught with such items will face arrest and prosecution.

Mr. Muntaka-Mubarak reassured the public that the government would continue collaborating with traditional authorities and residents to maintain peace and stability in the municipality.

Bunbon R/C Junior High School students in the Yendi Municipality of the Northern Region are experiencing significant obstacles in their ICT education because they lack computers and a designated ICT lab.

There are serious concerns about their readiness for a digital future due to the current situation.

Although the school has a large enrolment of 278 students and 13 teaching staff, not a single computer is available to aid in teaching and learning ICT.

Consequently, students are placed at a significant disadvantage compared to their counterparts in more well-equipped schools nationwide, as lessons solely consist of theoretical instruction.

According to Mr Yahaya Aminu, the Headmaster of Bunbon R/C JHS, the dearth of practical experience is diminishing the value of ICT instruction and detrimentally impacting students’ BECE results.

“Our students struggle to understand key ICT concepts, which makes it difficult for them to excel in exams and competitions,” he stated. “As a nation committed to digital learning and inclusive development, it is disheartening to see our children left behind simply because of a lack of basic resources.”

Apart from ICT, the school faces other obstacles. According to Alhassan Abu Safianu, the Assemblyman for the area, a significant lack of furniture is hindering the learning process.

According to him, students being stuffed into cramped classrooms, where three people have to squeeze onto one bench or take turns using chairs, disrupts lessons and creates an unfavourable learning atmosphere.

The Assemblyman also raised the alarm about the declining condition of the school building, noting its weakness and lack of safety. He pointed out that the structure is inadequate and outdated despite a student population of over 278. According to him, there are reports of classrooms housing up to 72 pupils, which far exceeds the maximum class size recommended by the Ghana Education Service of 45.

Mr Safianu appealed to the Yendi Municipal Assembly, non-governmental organisations, and philanthropic individuals to provide assistance to the school. He expressed his belief that with proper support, these children can be equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital world and enhance their academic achievements.

N-Yiigma Mulignan Carlos, the School Prefect, also spoke passionately, stating that Ghanaian children deserve a fair opportunity. He expressed their belief that having access to computers and suitable furniture would significantly improve their performance.

In its pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals, with a special focus on Goal 4, which aims to provide equal and quality education, Ghana faces a pressing issue highlighted by Bunbon R/C JHS. This calls for swift intervention to narrow the gap between access to technology and education.