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Chief of Army Staff Strengthens Ties with Northern Regional Minister

On June 24, 2025, Major General Lorance Gbetanu, the Chief of Army Staff, paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Ali Adolf John, the Northern Regional Minister, at the Northern Regional Coordinating Council in Tamale. The visit was part of Major General Gbetanu’s regional tour to meet with staff at the Northern Command.

A Warm Welcome and Discussion on Regional Security

Hon. Ali Adolf John warmly welcomed Major General Gbetanu and his delegation, expressing his appreciation for their proactive approach to maintaining peace and security in the region. The Regional Minister, who is known for his dedication to fostering peace and preventing conflicts, took the opportunity to brief the Chief of Army Staff on the current security situation in the Northern Region. He emphasised the army’s crucial role in maintaining stability and preventing conflicts, which are vital for the region’s development.

Strengthening Military-Civilian Cooperation

The courtesy call highlights the importance of collaboration between military and civilian authorities in maintaining the region’s peace and security. Hon. Ali Adolf John commended the army’s proactive work. He emphasised the need for continued cooperation to address the region’s challenges.

Commitment to Peace, Stability, and Development

This visit marks a significant step in strengthening the partnership between the military and civilian leadership, reaffirming both parties’ commitment to promoting peace, stability, and development in the Northern Region. By working together, they aim to create a safer environment for all residents and ensure the region continues to progress in a stable and secure atmosphere.

Northern Region Launches Taskforces to Combat Illicit Drug Abuse

On June 18, 2025, the Northern Region took a decisive step in tackling illicit drug abuse by hosting the second Anti-Drug Strategy Mapping Meeting and inaugurating two dedicated task forces: the Joint Enforcement Task Force and the Sensitisation Campaign Task Force. The event, held at the NRCC Conference Hall in Tamale, gathered key stakeholders, including traditional and religious leaders, heads of security agencies, and development partners.

Collective Action Against Drug Abuse in Northern Region

Chief Director Mr Sumaila Ewhntomah Abudu spoke on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, emphasising the importance of collective action in addressing the growing issue of drug abuse in the region. Hon. Ali Adolf John highlighted alarming statistics related to non-traditional drug-related offences and substance-induced psychosis admissions at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, emphasising the urgency of the situation.

Inauguration of the Taskforces

The Joint Enforcement Taskforce and the Sensitization Campaign Taskforce were officially inaugurated to confront illicit drug abuse. The two task forces have distinct but complementary roles. The Enforcement Taskforce is tasked with conducting regular raids on drug hotspots and dens, coordinating arrests with security agencies, gathering and sharing real-time intelligence, and submitting monthly reports to the Regional Security Office. This collaborative effort aims to disrupt and dismantle the illicit drug trade in the region.

Meanwhile, the Sensitization Campaign Taskforce will focus on raising awareness about the dangers of illicit drugs, educating the public, especially the youth, on the risks associated with drug abuse, and promoting community resilience against criminal networks.

A Unified Effort to Protect the Community

The Regional Minister called for sustained commitment from all stakeholders, urging them to focus on the practical implementation of the strategies. He emphasised that the fight against illicit drug abuse is not only a matter of law enforcement but also about safeguarding the very soul of their communities and ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for the region’s youth.

A Significant Milestone in Combating Drug Abuse

The launch of these task forces marks a pivotal moment in the Northern Region’s efforts to combat illicit drug abuse. With clear objectives and a coordinated approach, the task force is expected to work in harmony to tackle the rising threat of narcotic and illegal drug abuse, protect the youth, and foster a safer, drug-free environment for the entire community.

Saboba’s Paramount Chief Pledges Support for Regional Minister’s Development Efforts

On June 26, 2025, the Paramount Chief of Saboba, Ubor Mateer John Bowan Sakojim IV, alongside his sub-chiefs and the District Chief Executive for Saboba, paid a courtesy visit to the Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburudiba. The purpose of the visit was to congratulate the Regional Minister on his appointment and to discuss the way forward for the region’s development.

Saboba-Paramount-Chief Ubor Mateer John Bowan Sakojim IV (right) and Regional Minister (Left)

Commitment to Peace and Development

During the meeting, Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburudiba expressed his gratitude to the chief and his entourage for their visit. He emphasised the importance of peace in the areas as a key factor for driving sustainable development. The Regional Minister urged the people of Saboba to prioritise education as a vital tool for progress, emphasising that a well-educated population is crucial for regional growth and prosperity.

Hon. Mburudiba also assured the people that the government was committed to rolling out further developmental projects in the area, which would improve the quality of life for residents, stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance access to critical services.

Acknowledgment of Government Initiatives

The Paramount Chief, in his remarks, thanked the Regional Minister for the warm reception and congratulated him on his new role. He also expressed his gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for appointing Hon. Mburudiba as the Regional Minister. The chief particularly appreciated the ongoing government projects in Saboba, including the construction of the Wapuli bridge, which is expected to significantly improve local infrastructure.

Appeal for a Tertiary Institution in Saboba

Taking the opportunity to address another pressing need in the region, the Paramount Chief appealed to the President, through the Regional Minister, to consider establishing a tertiary institution, such as a college of education, in Saboba. He firmly believes that such an institution would not only provide educational opportunities for local youth but also make a significant contribution to the region’s overall development.

Support for Regional Minister’s Development Goals

The Paramount Chief reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace in Saboba and assured the Regional Minister of his full support in all developmental initiatives. He encouraged Hon. Mburudiba to serve with patience and tolerance, qualities that are crucial for effective leadership and for ensuring the welfare of the people.

This courtesy visit highlights the robust partnership between the traditional leadership of Saboba and the government as they collaborate to promote development, peace, and progress in the region. The shared commitment between the Paramount Chief and the Regional Minister underscores the importance of unity in driving the long-term well-being of the Saboba community.

Amnesty International Ghana (AI Ghana) Urges Government to Act on Bawku Conflict

Amnesty International Ghana (AI Ghana) has called on the Government of Ghana to take decisive action to resolve the ongoing Bawku conflict, ensuring lasting peace and protecting innocent lives. The call was made on Friday, June 27, 2025, in response to the continued violence in the region.

Demand for Immediate Action – AI Ghana

AI Ghana, a local chapter of the global human rights organisation, emphasised that the lives of people in Bawku are as valuable as those in any other part of the country. Mr. Francis Nyantakyi, the Board Chairman of AI Ghana, urged the government to “end the silence” and take transparent steps to mediate, rebuild trust between the feuding factions, and protect civilians from further harm.

Speaking at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of AI Ghana, Mr Nyantakyi expressed concern about the government’s failure to address the prolonged violence in Bawku, which has resulted in the displacement of families, loss of lives, and a pervasive sense of fear. He criticised the government’s silence and indecisiveness, which he said “speak louder than any statement.”

Mr-Francis-Nyantakyi—Board-Chairman-AI-Ghana

The Growing Crisis of Illegal Mining

In addition to the Bawku crisis, Mr. Nyantakyi raised alarm about the growing issue of illegal mining in the country. He highlighted the urgent need to address illicit mining not just as an environmental issue but as a significant human rights crisis. The destructive effects of illegal mining, including toxic rivers, contaminated food chains, destroyed farmlands, and collapsing health systems, reflect a failure in leadership and enforcement.

Mr. Nyantakyi also noted the growing danger faced by those who speak out against these practices. Journalists, traditional leaders, and youth activists have been met with harassment, police violence, and laws that silence their efforts to expose the crisis. He urged the government to treat illegal mining as a human rights issue and to demonstrate political will by prosecuting those involved, including financiers and perpetrators of galamsey.

Protecting Free Expression and Strengthening Institutions

Furthermore, Mr. Nyantakyi urged the government to ensure that communities affected by the environmental impact of illegal mining receive adequate compensation and support for rebuilding. He also emphasised the need for legal reforms to prevent law enforcement from being used to suppress free expression and criticism.

Strengthening independent institutions was another key point of Nyantakyi’s speech. He urged that bodies like the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, the National Media Commission, and the Judiciary must be shielded from political interference to effectively carry out their duties and protect the constitutional rights of citizens.

International and Regional Collaboration

The AGM, which took place in Fiapre, near Sunyani, was attended by several prominent figures, including Mrs Easily Nemitz, Board Chair of AI, and Dr Julia Duchrow, Secretary General of AI Germany, along with representatives from AI chapters in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Côte d’Ivoire. The four-day forum, themed “Resilience in a Restricted Civic Space,” continues to focus on critical human rights issues facing Ghana and the wider region.

Amnesty International Ghana’s call for decisive government action on the Bawku conflict and illegal mining highlights the urgent need for leadership that prioritises peace, human rights, and environmental justice.

Upper West Regional Minister Distributes Sanitary Pads to Female Students

Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, has presented sanitary pads to female students in second-cycle institutions across the region to support menstrual hygiene management. This initiative is part of the government’s Free Sanitary Pad Distribution Programme, which aims to promote gender equality and enhance school attendance among girls.

Government’s Commitment to Girls’ Education – Upper West Regional Minister

The distribution was launched at the Jamiat Islamic Girls’ SHS in Wa, where Mr Puozuing emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for girls to actively participate in their academic activities. He highlighted that this policy, introduced by President John Mahama, aims to help girls remain in school, maintain good health, and focus on learning.

“The government may not be able to meet the sanitary pad needs of the schoolgirls throughout the year, but we are committed to ensuring that whenever schools are in session, the girls will have the support they need to stay comfortable and focused,” said Mr Puozuing.

Regional Distribution Plans

Mr Razak Abdul-Korah, the Upper West Regional Director of Education, revealed that the region was expected to receive a total of 220,000 packs of sanitary pads for distribution to female students. To date, 73,650 packs have been delivered, with each female student set to receive four packs, which are expected to last approximately five months.

Addressing Menstrual Hygiene Challenges

Hajia Afisata Salia, the Headmistress of Jamiat Islamic SHS, acknowledged that access to sanitary pads had been a significant challenge for some students. She expressed optimism that this intervention would ease the burden on the girls and help reduce absenteeism, promote better health and personal hygiene, and create a more supportive learning environment.

Students Express Gratitude

Miss Mukarramah Hafiz, a student at the school, expressed her gratitude to the government, stating that this initiative would not only alleviate the financial burden on parents but also foster greater inclusion in teaching and learning. She appreciated the thoughtful consideration of the menstrual hygiene needs of schoolgirls.

This initiative demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to supporting girls’ education and ensuring that they can learn in a healthier and more inclusive environment.

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tamale Celebrates the Feast of Corpus Christi

The Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tamale marked the Feast of Corpus Christi, also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, a significant event in the Catholic faith that underscores the central mystery of the Eucharist—the actual presence of Jesus Christ in the bread and wine during Mass.

A Day of Celebration and Faith at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church

This year, the celebration was vibrant, with all the church groups donning their colourful uniforms to honour the feast. The parishioners gathered to commemorate this sacred occasion, focusing on the importance of the Eucharist as the gift that Jesus left for humankind.

Father Hilary Pogbeyir’s Sermon on the Eucharist

Very Reverend Father Hilary Pogbeyir, the Parish Priest of the Blessed Sacrament Church, delivered a sermon highlighting the significance of the Eucharist. He explained that the Catholic Church believes in the real presence of Christ in the elements of bread and wine during Mass. Father Pogbeyir urged the congregation to renew their commitment to faith, emphasising that the Eucharist is the surest way for Catholics to encounter God’s love in their daily lives.

A Call to Live Christ’s Love

Father Pogbeyir spoke about how Christians are called to embody God’s love in their unique circumstances, just as Jesus incarnated God’s love during his earthly life. He encouraged the faithful to allow this transformation to take place through the Eucharist, which he described as a powerful means to bring Christians closer to Christ’s presence.

Supporting the Poor and Needy

As part of his message, Father Pogbeyir urged Christians to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ by reaching out to support the poor and needy in their communities. By doing so, they would receive God’s blessings and be faithful followers of Christ’s example of love and service.

Post-Mass Celebration

After the Holy Mass, the church organised a get-together and outdoor games for the parishioners. The event fostered a sense of community and joy as the faithful came together to celebrate not only the Feast of Corpus Christi but also their shared faith and commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Through this celebration, the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Tamale reaffirmed its dedication to the Eucharist and the transformative power of Christ’s love in the lives of its members.

Apprentices Sensitised on Gender Equality and Adolescent Health Rights

The North East Regional Department of Gender recently organised a two-day workshop aimed at sensitising apprentices on crucial topics, including gender equality, roles, stereotypes, and adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). The event, supported by the United Nations Population Fund, was designed to provide apprentices with essential knowledge and skills to challenge gender stereotypes, understand gender roles, and access adolescent-friendly health services in their communities.

Empowering Young Apprentices

The workshop brought together 92 participants from the Yunyoo/Nasuan District and the West Mamprusi Municipality, including tailors, hairdressers, makeup artists, masons, and carpenters. These apprentices were educated on a range of issues that affect their daily lives and futures, from understanding the difference between sex and gender to gaining practical insights into SRHR.

Understanding Gender and Challenging Stereotypes

Mrs Bushira Alhassan, the Northern Regional Director of the Department of Gender, led the workshop by discussing the critical distinction between sex and gender. She highlighted how traditional beliefs, such as the notion that men should handle physical labour and women should care for children, limit opportunities and perpetuate discrimination both at home and in society. These insights encouraged participants to reflect on how these stereotypes affect their personal and professional lives.

Adolescent SRHR: A Vital Right

Madam Miriam Bonah, a Senior Midwife with the Northern Regional Health Directorate, led a highly engaging session on SRHR. Her presentation covered vital topics such as menstrual hygiene, contraception, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the importance of seeking proper healthcare. She emphasised that access to accurate SRHR information should be considered a right, not a luxury, particularly for young girls in the informal sector who are often excluded from public health discussions.

Health Education and Practical Tips

Madam Joyce Sandow, a health professional at the North East Regional Health Directorate, sensitised participants on menstrual cycles, STI prevention, and the risks associated with unsafe sexual practices. She also discussed the dangers of overusing emergency contraceptives and provided practical advice on maintaining sexual health.

Participants gained valuable insights into the stigma faced by adolescent girls when seeking SRHR services. They were encouraged to utilise adolescent-friendly areas in local health facilities, which are designed to provide a more comfortable and supportive environment for young people seeking health services.

Debunking Myths and Challenging Gender Norms

During the plenary session, participants openly shared personal experiences and addressed community-held misconceptions. A key myth discussed was the belief that family planning methods could cause permanent infertility. This misconception discourages many young women from using contraceptives. Other concerns included teenage pregnancy, societal pressures, and the dangers of using unsafe local sexual enhancement products.

The discussions also explored how traditional gender roles often prevent men from participating in household chores, reinforcing gender inequality. Participants agreed on the need to challenge these stereotypes to create more equitable relationships both at home and in society.

A Step Towards Gender Equality

The workshop served as a crucial platform for apprentices to learn about their rights and gain the tools to challenge societal norms. By addressing both gender equality and SRHR, the initiative aimed to empower young people to make informed decisions about their health and future, ultimately working toward greater gender equality in the region.

Education Authorities Alarmed by Rising Child Marriages in Mamprugu Moagduri District

The Mamprugu Moagduri District in the North East Region of Ghana is witnessing a disturbing trend of child marriages, which is negatively impacting girl-child education. Across the district’s 48 schools, there has been a steady decline in school enrolment, particularly among girls.

Child Marriage

The Impact of Child Marriages on Education

Research conducted by Afrikids Ghana highlighted alarming statistics: in just 20 targeted schools, at least 30 cases of child marriage were recorded within a single month. In some communities, such as Kunkwa and Katigri, it is not uncommon for five to eight girls to marry within the same month, as this practice is deeply rooted in local norms.

However, Afrikids Ghana’s One Million Smiles Program, through community sensitisation and mentorship for girls, has begun to reverse this troubling trend. Yet, much more is needed to make a significant impact.

Rising Health Risks for Adolescents

The health directorate’s data paints a grim picture, with the number of adolescents attending antenatal care services rising toward 15%, a concerning figure that continues to climb. Many of these young girls are even travelling outside the district for care. This highlights the growing danger posed by child marriages, with many girls becoming mothers before they are truly ready.

Afrikids Ghana’s Interventions

Currently, Afrikids Ghana is addressing six child marriage cases involving school pupils. So far, four of the victims have been successfully rescued, reunited with their families, and returned to school. These cases primarily involve girls at the primary and junior high school levels.

Mathew Abagna, the District Manager for Afrikids’ One Million Smiles Program, emphasised the significant barriers to girls’ education in the district, with forced marriages being the most prominent challenge. He stressed the need for intensified sensitisation efforts to change this damaging practice.

The Norm of KAYAYE and Child Labor

In addition to child marriage, another pervasive issue affecting school attendance is the migration of girls to southern Ghana for labour, commonly known as “KAYAYE.” Over 90% of school girls under the age of 18 are involved in this practice, further depriving them of their education. Mr Abagna revealed that both parents and teachers in the district are complicit in this issue, with 70% of children being taken to farms during school hours, leaving classrooms nearly empty.

Impact on Teaching and Learning

Julius Bernet Ofori, the Director of Education for the Mamprugu Moagduri District, confirmed Afrikids’ findings and shared the challenges this situation presents for education. “During school hours, especially in the farming season, many classrooms are almost empty because children are working on farms with their parents. We are doing our best, with other stakeholders, to address these challenges,” Mr. Ofori explained.

The Widespread Prevalence of Child Marriages in North East Region

Data from the Ghana Statistical Service reveals that the North East Region has the highest percentage of girls in a union, with 13%, more than twice the national average of 4%. The Savanna and Northern Regions follow with 10.9% and 10.6%, respectively. This starkly contrasts with the national trend, underscoring the need for urgent intervention in these areas.

Child Marriage

UNICEF’s Findings and Global Efforts

Ending child marriage is a critical target of Sustainable Development Goal 5, and Ghana, like many countries, faces significant challenges in achieving this goal. According to UNICEF, Ghana is home to over two million child brides, including both current and former child brides. The data further reveals that girls from rural areas or poor households are at a higher risk of being married off early. More than nine in ten of these married girls are not attending school, significantly limiting their future opportunities.

A Call for Action

The increasing rate of child marriages and child labour in the Mamprugu Moagduri District highlights the urgent need for more focused efforts on the education and empowerment of girls. Afrikids Ghana’s intervention is a vital step, but continued support from both the local and national government, as well as civil society, is essential to combat these deeply rooted challenges and ensure that every girl in the district can receive an education, free from the threat of early marriage or exploitation.

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