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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.

Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Bolgatanga Marks 100 Years

The Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish in Bolgatanga has celebrated its 100th anniversary with a strong call for spiritual renewal, mindset change, and national unity.

The climax of the year-long centenary celebration was held under the theme, “Celebrating 100 Years of Walking Together as a Family of God.” It brought together parishioners, traditional leaders, Muslim clerics, government officials, and other guests to reflect on the Church’s century-long journey of faith and service.

During the Holy Mass, Most Reverend Alfred Agyenta, Bishop of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Catholic Diocese, described the milestone as a time to both celebrate and reflect.

“This centenary is a breakthrough and magnification of God’s love. We must not only celebrate the past but renew our minds and spirits for the future,” he said.

He urged Christians to embrace selflessness, cultural renewal, and stronger ties within families and communities.

“It is not enough to live in the past. We must change the way we see things, renew our culture, and strengthen our family and Church bonds,” he added.

Bishop Agyenta acknowledged that the journey from 1925 to 2025 was not an easy one. He said the Church faced persecution and resistance, but faith, resilience, and God’s grace sustained its growth.

“We must look to the future with confidence. The journey continues. It is a mission, and a mission means we are sent to go out and serve,” he said.

The Upper East Regional Chief Imam, Sheikh Alhaji Umar Yussif, shared a message of solidarity. He commended the Church for its role in promoting peace and interfaith harmony.

“The Holy Quran recognises Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, and Christians are our sincere and beloved brothers. The Catholic Church has uplifted the marginalised and stood for justice. We are truly grateful for your work and celebrate with you today,” he said.

Mr. Abanga George Akuune, Chief of Dulugu and a representative of the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, said the Church had always been a symbol of hope in difficult times. He praised the Church for its work in healthcare, education, and social justice.

Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, Upper East Regional Minister, also commended the Parish.

He said the Church’s century of service reflected resilience, faith, and commitment to God and humanity.

Describing the Church as “a dependable development partner,” he highlighted its impact in education, health, agriculture, and welfare. He also assured continued government collaboration with the Church, especially in peacebuilding.

He called for prayers for the President and national leaders, as well as for peace in Bawku.

The Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish was established in February 1925 by the White Fathers (Missionaries of Africa), who had arrived in Navrongo in 1906 from Ouagadougou. Since then, the Parish has expanded in size and population, giving rise to seven other parishes.

Ya-Na Bans Fire Festival in Tamale Over Security Concerns

The Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, has banned this year’s Fire Festival celebration in the Tamale Metropolis.

The festival, which was scheduled for tonight, Saturday 5th July 2025, will no longer take place.

A statement from the Gbewa Palace stated that the decision was made after consultations with security agencies and local authorities. It cited growing tensions among certain groups in the area.

The statement, signed by Palace Secretary Abdul Rahaman Mohammed, stated that the ban is intended to protect lives and maintain peace.

While acknowledging the cultural significance of the Fire Festival, the Ya-Na emphasised that the current priority is to prevent conflict and maintain harmony.

“All traditional leaders are to relay this directive to their communities and support efforts to maintain order,” the statement said.

Residents were also urged to remain calm and cooperate with security measures.

“It is the hope of Ndan Ya-Na that the Fire Festival will resume in the near future under more favourable and peaceful circumstances,” the statement added.

About the Fire Festival

The Fire Festival, also known as Bugum Chugu, is an ancient tradition of the Mole-Dagbon people. It marks the start of the Dagbon lunar year.

The festival commemorates the night a chief’s son went missing and was found using torches during a community search.

It is a time of cultural reflection and unity, but tensions in recent years have led to increased security concerns.

EU, UN Launch €2.7m Support Programme for Displaced Persons in Northern Ghana

The European Union, UNICEF, and UNHCR have launched a €2.7 million project to support forcibly displaced people and their host communities in northern Ghana.

The two-year initiative, known as the UNITE Project, is being rolled out in the Tarikom and Zini communities in the Upper East and Upper West Regions. It aims to enhance resilience, improve access to essential services, and foster long-term development for vulnerable groups.

Led by UNICEF Ghana and UNHCR, the project will focus on the needs of women and children. It will also work with national and local partners to strengthen education, health, child protection, and identification systems.

The initiative is part of a broader response to displacement linked to instability in the Gulf of Guinea. Over 17,000 asylum seekers are currently estimated to be living in northern Ghana.

“Through the UNITE project and other efforts, the EU is supporting displaced people and the communities that have opened their doors to them,” said EU Ambassador to Ghana, Irchad Razaaly. He stressed the EU’s commitment to upholding refugee rights under international law.

UNICEF Ghana’s Representative, Osama Makkawi Khoghali, said the project is about “restoring dignity, strengthening community resilience, and building a future where every child and family has access to the services they deserve.”

UNHCR’s Head of Office in Ghana, Needa Jehu-Mazou, added that the programme will help displaced persons and host communities “not only survive but thrive.” She praised the EU’s backing and said the project will promote peaceful coexistence and sustainable solutions.

National partners include the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, the Ghana Health Service, the Ghana Education Service, and the National Identification Authority.

The UNITE project also complements existing efforts, such as the Gulf of Guinea Social Cohesion Programme (SOCO).

It is part of a larger €12 million regional package supported by the EU and four UN agencies—UNICEF, UNHCR, WFP, and IOM—being implemented across Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin.