Tag: thesavannaonline

President John Dramani Mahama during a Thank-You durbar at the Jubilee Park in Bolgatanga reiterated a manifesto and campaign pledge he made to the people of the Upper East Region to construct an airport for them if he won the 2024 general elections. He announced that he had directed the MD of the Ghana Airport Company to source for funding under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. “We intend to do this under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, in conjunction with the gold mining companies in this region, since this will allow them also to airlift their gold bullion safely to Accra, directly from the Upper East Region.” President Mahama added to the delight of the people.

This announcement created the much-needed euphoria among many citizens and business actors who travel to the region to conduct business operations. Before this euphoria could settle down, I chanced upon an opinion piece that sought to question the economic and commercial viability of the long-awaited project. The writer’s opinion piece was one-sided, poorly researched and must be rejected by the government and the private sector in favour of the airport project.

The Financial Reality of Regional Airports

The writer failed to appreciate that airports are not only constructed because of the direct profits these can accrue to the state but also because they impact diverse aspects of the local economy by creating jobs, improving productivity, and enhancing economic growth.

The writer also failed to recognize that a PPP model would be deployed in the construction of the airport. This means that construction costs would not be borne by only the state but also the private sector. Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd is the third largest Mine in Ghana currently with over $700 million dollar investment in the project in the Talensi district of the region.

Public-Private Partnership: A Risky Bet?

Private investors are profit-driven, and if the numbers do not add up, their interest in the project may be limited or entirely nonexistent.

The writer’s argument is dead on arrival as there is already an established interest in the project. A simple Google search would have prevented this moot question. Cardinal Namdini Mining Ltd made their intentions to collaborate with the state in a PPP arrangement public in October 2023. Graphic Online reported on October 5, 2025 that the Project Manager, Mr. Steve Ofori-Asamoah disclosed the company plans to collaborate with the government to construct the airport. Mr. Ofori-Asamoah added that the ‘’company had already approved an initial amount to kick-start the project’’. Therefore, what really held back the start of the project was the previous government’s inaction towards the project and not a lack of private investors to collaborate with the government as the writer sought to create.

Questions of Demand and Feasibility

How many domestic airlines currently operate in Ghana, and how many would be willing to expand their services to Bolgatanga?

The Upper East Region is the furthest region from the national capital, Accra. It is a region that borders Togo and Burkina Faso. It’s the region easily accessed by Mali and Niger. The economic activity between Ghana and the recently formed Alliance of Sahel States in particular cannot be underestimated. According to the Ghana Statistical Service, in 2023, over 25% of Ghana exports to Africa went to Burkina Faso (12.6%), Togo (6.2%), Mali (4.7%) and Niger (1.8%). The Upper East region is the main region through which these goods and services are exported to these countries. An airport in the region would ease travel between Ghana and these countries and promote intra-African trade.

In fact, a good number of business travelers from these countries have already been flying from Tamale to Accra instead of from their capital towns to Accra. The main reason is that international flights from their countries to Accra are sometimes about 200 per cent more expensive than the domestic flights between Tamale and Accra. An airport in Bolgatanga would therefore attract more passengers they would no longer travel between 2 to 3 hours from Bolgatanga to Tamale. This will expand economic activities for the local economy and boost revenue for Ghana.

What is the anticipated volume of air traffic to the proposed airport?

In view of the fact that Bolgatanga is the furthest region from Accra, the risks involved and time spent (at least 2 hours) travelling by road from Tamale, air throughput between Accra and Bolgatanga is expected to be high. I will dare say that this throughput will likely exceed the current volumes between Accra and other regional capitals. The existence of the mining companies and the frequency of travels by direct employees and mining support service companies will contribute significantly to increase air traffic at the airport in Bolgatanga.

Can the majority of people in the region afford the cost of domestic flights?

I am really wondering why this question is relevant. So I will reserve my comments because I may get emotional if I make an attempt to respond as I see it as derogatory.

Were comprehensive feasibility and needs assessment studies conducted?

Yes. There have been different studies conducted by different governments. All the studies showed that the airport is feasible.

The Alternative: Revamping the Bolgatanga Tomato Factory

President Mahama also made his intentions in the 2024 Manifesto clear as regards industrialization in the region. He pledged to revamp the Pwalugu Tomato Factory and the Zuarungu Meat Factory. The impression being created by the writer to suggest that the construction of an airport is a zero-sum project to any other project in the region is far-fetched and unfair to the facts known to many.

Conclusion

An airport project for the people of the Upper East Region is a foregone conclusion. It has the buy-in of many relevant stakeholders including the Regional House of Chiefs. The airport would not only be commercially viable but will also contribute to incentivize the local economy, create jobs, improve productivity, generate revenue and enhance economic growth. The airport project remains one of the viable low-hanging fruits we must grab, as there are private sector operators who are ready from 2023 to collaborate with the government. We cannot compare the cost of an airport to the cost of a railway line from Accra to Bolgatanga, as the writer wants us to believe that is rather a viable option. The writer is not pragmatic in recommending the construction of a railway line from Accra to Burkina Faso during the period of an IMF program.

In addition, the construction of an airport does not also mean that the region cannot have any other projects. Indeed, there are campaign and manifesto promises to complete the Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulimokom road, construct the Bolgatanga-Wa road, and construct the Chuchuliga-Sandema-Fumbisi road among others. The revamping of the meat and tomato factories is also a commitment of the government.

What we need now is for citizens of the region in particular to rally support from diverse stakeholders to keep knocking on the doors of the President to find the required resources to execute these projects and not seek to use an opinion piece to deceive people.

By: Rusmond Anyinah, A Development Practitioner

According to the World Bank, Ghana is 72nd in terms of vulnerability to climate change. It is also commonly known as a highly religious nation. Yet, according to Greenfaith Africa, relying solely on prayer will not be sufficient to combat climate change and its difficulties. Action must also be taken.

The effects of climate change are clear in all corners of the country. Temperatures in northern Ghana are now higher than they used to be. The region is now facing erratic weather conditions, hindering efforts to achieve food security. Coastal areas are also witnessing rising sea levels, resulting in the displacement of homes.

In light of this, GreenFaith Africa-Bolgatanga Circle has presented a petition to the government. They are urging swift measures to tackle these issues.

According to the organisation’s assessment of the Upper East Region, climate change impacts women and farmers, making communities more susceptible.

It is disturbing that the region known for its vibrant agriculture is now grappling with erratic rainfall and prolonged dry spells, rising temperatures and heat waves, reliance on polluting energy sources, and deforestation.

GreenFaith Africa-Bolgatanga Circle recently submitted a petition to the government via the Upper East Regional Minister. The organisation emphasised clean energy investment for rural communities, supporting women-led clean cooking programs and safeguarding farmlands and water sources. Additionally, they stressed the importance of ensuring that climate funds directly benefit rural communities.

Before presenting the Petition last Friday, members of the Circle took part in a Climate Walk. They held placards with powerful messages such as “Your food, your future: demand clean energy.” It was emphasised that communities must take charge of the climate movement. It was also reminded that God has entrusted us with the earth, and it is our responsibility to protect it. Simply praying for change is not enough; action must be taken now. The President of the Bolgatanga Circle, Felicia Baan, urged immediate measures to address climate change.

While we commend the government for appointing a Minister of State in charge of Climate Change and Sustainability, we urge bolder action: Prioritise investment in clean energy for rural communities —expand solar-powered irrigation systems and renewable energy for food production to reduce reliance on climate-vulnerable rain-fed farming. Support women-led clean cooking initiatives —Provide subsidies for clean cookstoves and alternative fuels to reduce indoor pollution and save women’s time. Stop destructive energy policies – Shift funds from fossil fuel expansion into renewable energy solutions that benefit smallholder farmers and local economies, protect farmlands and water bodies: Enforce strict laws against deforestation and land degradation while promoting agroecology and tree-planting initiatives, ensure climate funds reach rural farmers -Allocate resources for smallholder farmers to access climate-resilient seeds, irrigation, and sustainable farming practices. Climate change is not just a government issue. It is a collective responsibility. Every Ghanaian must commit to protecting our environment and shifting toward clean, fair, and sustainable energy solutions.

Regional Minister Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadr received the Petition. The regional economic planning officer and Acting Regional Coordinating Director addressed the topic of Climate Change. He emphasised its significance to the government. He expressed confidence that necessary actions will be taken to address this pressing issue.

The CKT-UTAS medical school in Navrongo is soon to come. The Director-General of the Ghana Health Service has committed to expediting the process.

The War Memorial Hospital in Navrongo is located in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality of the Upper East Region. It is being upgraded to become a teaching hospital.

The facility’s upgrade would enable the addition of a medical school. This would be added to the Clement Kubindiwor Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS).

The purpose of this is to educate skilled healthcare experts in conducting research. It aims to enhance healthcare access and outcomes in the region. This will have a positive impact on academic and community well-being.

Pe Asagpaare Aneakwoa Balinia Adda II, the Paramount Chief of Navrongo Traditional Area, requested action. In response, Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea is the Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS). He made a commitment in Navrongo. He will advocate for the completion of projects. These projects were pledged by President John Dramani Mahama before the 2024 General Elections.

During his three-day tour of the northern regions, he also visited the Paramount Chief. The purpose of his tour was to raise awareness about the deadly Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) disease. This disease had tragically taken many lives in the area.

During his recent “Thank you” tour in the region, President Mahama restated his promise. He committed to upgrading the War Memorial Hospital into a teaching hospital. This move aims to improve medical services and support training for medical professionals, as initially pledged during his campaign.

Professor Akoriyea expressed his deep attachment to the Navrongo War Memorial Hospital. He stated that a medical school at CKT-UTAS would equip the region with a capable healthcare workforce. This would address the community’s needs.

The D-G visited the War Memorial Hospital. They also toured the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital. The D-G was accompanied by the Regional Director of Health Services. Dr Samuel Boakye-Boateng joined them, along with other senior health personnel from Accra. During their visit, they generously donated medical equipment worth GH¢220,000.00 to the management, alongside the Dean of the School of Medical Sciences, CKT-UTAS, Prof. Juventus Ziem.

The items in question are as follows. They include a surgical gown, Rikair Flow­meter set, Pulse Oximeter, Bedsheets, KN 95, and Nose masks.

Additional items included a CPAP machine and a 5 LPM Oxygen concentrator. They also included a LumiraDX POCT Platform Instrument and LumiraDX HBAIC Test Strips. Additionally, there was a 5L Cardboard Sharp Container.

During his presentation of the items to management, Prof. Kaba pointed out the unfortunate reality that CSM patients have lost their lives due to insufficient funds for medicine.

He advised clowns working in hospitals and health centres to avoid selling the drugs.

He urged the chiefs, opinion leaders, and media to collaborate with health promotion officers. This collaboration aims to bolster awareness of the escalating issue of CSM.

Dr Abraham Titiga, the Medical Superintendent, expressed his gratitude. He thanked them for the medical consumables and equipment received on behalf of the hospital. He thanked the Director General for this kind gesture. He acknowledged that it would greatly assist in addressing some pressing challenges faced by the hospital.

During his visit to the Mental Health Unit at Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, Prof. Akoriyea commended the staff for successfully fulfilling their duties despite resource constraints.

He pledged to address specific challenges hindering the smooth operation of healthcare facilities in the area. He urged healthcare providers to cultivate strong relationships with their patients during interactions.

The newly appointed director of the Ghana Health Service is Prof Samuel Kaba Akoriyea.

President John Dramani Mahama has selected Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea as the new Director-General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

Prof. Akoriyea takes over from Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye. Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye is known for his exceptional leadership. He was particularly recognized during the challenging times of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Under Dr Kuma-Aboagye’s guidance, Ghana emerged as one of the most proactive countries in Africa in handling the pandemic. This involved widespread testing and rigorous contact tracing. Prompt policy interventions were also crucial. These actions ultimately led to a remarkably low fatality rate compared to other nations in the region.

During the handover event, Dr. Kuma-Aboagye thanked his colleagues and encouraged them to rally behind Prof. Akoriyea, stressing the importance of teamwork.

Prof. Akoriyea reaffirmed his pledge to promote the government’s health objectives as stated in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto.

Additionally, he stressed his commitment to enhancing the nation’s healthcare system. He emphasized focused implementation of key initiatives to improve access to quality health services.

He recognized the crucial contribution of the Ghana Health Service to reaching the government’s health objectives. He promised to guarantee the efficient provision of healthcare services to citizens.

Prof. Akoriyea’s appointment ushers in a new era. We are eager to see the further development of Ghana’s healthcare system. This progress builds upon the solid groundwork established by Dr. Kuma-Aboagye.

The chiefs, Tindamas, and people of the Talensi Traditional Area in the Upper East Region on Sunday, successfully climaxed the annual Golob Festival, a deeply spiritual and cultural event that marks the beginning of the farming season. This age-old festival, celebrated throughout March, is a sacred period dedicated to seeking the blessings of the gods for fertile lands, abundant rains, and a bumper harvest.

More than just an agricultural ritual, the Golob Festival is a time for unity, purification, and cultural preservation. It is a period when the Talensi people reconnect with their traditions, renew their faith in their ancestral deities, and strengthen communal bonds.

During the month-long celebration, the Talensi land is considered sacred, and the people strictly adhere to a set of customs and taboos aimed at ensuring purity and order. Marriage ceremonies, extramarital affairs, noise-making, and even mourning the dead are strictly forbidden. Bloodshed in any form is also prohibited, reinforcing the festival’s emphasis on peace and harmony.

“With your wife, it is allowed to have sex with, but outside marriage, it is not accepted. And if one goes wayward within our community, a song is composed to deter others from doing same,” Jacob Omboehyin, leader of the Wakii Golob dancing group.

The festival also dictates a unique dress code for both men and women. Indigenous men wear short knickers and animal skin, leaving their chests bare, with towels draped around their necks, symbolizing strength and masculinity. Women, on the other hand, adorn themselves in long towels covering them from chest to knee level, with their heads wrapped in cloth, a sign of purity and respect for tradition.

A highlight of the Golob festival is the invigorating week-long Golob dance, a spectacular display of Talensi culture, music, and spiritual energy. The festival ignites a sense of belonging and community spirit, as indigenous songs and dances take center stage in communities such as Wakii, Gorog, Tengzuk, Shia, Gbeogo, Gorogo, Yindure, and Separd.

The Golob dance is not merely for entertainment—it is a sacred ritual believed to usher in blessings, cleanse the land of negative energies, and prepare the people for the challenges of the farming season ahead.

“Today, the Tongraan will give millet to the Tindaamas present here and when they get back to their communities, it will then be distributed to all corners of the traditional area. So, when you are going to sow, no matter how small that particular millet is, mix it with the millet you are going to sow. We believe that by doing so, the gods will help us to get a bumper harvest. And once we talk to our ancestors, we will come out of the farms without any harm. We have snakes, and scorpions on the farms and once we do that, it will prevent us from attacks,” Naab Nyakora Mantii, the Chief of Baare stated.

Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion was Daniel Dung Mahama, the Member of Parliament for Talensi, who commended the people for upholding their culture and fostering unity through the Golob Festival.

“In a time when modernization threatens to erode our cultural values, it is refreshing to see the people of Talensi hold firmly to their traditions. Golob is more than a festival—it is a heritage that must be passed down to future generations. The number of people around here signified unity, peace, and love for one another. One thing about the festival is to remember our great ancestors, where they came from, and how they came together as one,” the MP stated.

For Rockson Bukuari from the Gbeogo community, the Golob Festival is not only about ushering in the rainy season but also about fostering unity among the Talensi people.

“Beyond being a spiritual exercise, Golob strengthens the bond among the Talensi people. It reminds us of our shared identity, our ancestral roots, and our commitment to preserving the customs of our forefathers,” he noted.

Source: A1Radioonline.com

The Bolgatanga East District Health Directorate worries about the severe shortage of mental health professionals in the area. Accommodating 256 patients, the directorate is facing difficulties as it operates with merely four mental health staff members.

Godfred Gamson represented the District Health Director. He brought attention to this matter at the district’s commissioning ceremony for the Blessed Home Wellness Centre.

The establishment is situated in the Zuarungu-Gonno neighbourhood. It strives to combat the increasing effects of substance abuse. It also addresses psychological struggles in the Upper East Region.

According to Mr. Gamson, the current lack of mental health professionals is a cause for concern. This affects the standard of care being provided to patients. He observed that the workload on the four mental health nurses is excessive. This could result in burnout. Ultimately, this diminishes treatment efficacy.

In an exclusive interview with our reporter, David Azure, Yeribu Hrriette confirmed the insufficient staffing issue. She is the Health Director of Bolgatanga East District. She expressed her approval of the opening of the Blessed Home Wellness Centre. She stated that it will significantly aid the district. This will be in conjunction with other private health facilities.

Madam Yeribu stressed the urgent need to address the shortage of mental health professionals. The demand for services keeps increasing. She also conveyed her willingness to collaborate effectively with Blessed Home Wellness Centre to ensure the provision of high-quality healthcare.

Roland Ayoo Atanga

The Communication Bureau of the Bolgatanga Central Constituency warmly congratulates Roland Ayoo Atanga. He was recently appointed as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of the Bolgatanga Central Municipal Assembly.

Roland Ayoo Atanga on the right has been a prominent figure in Bolgatanga Central. He has served an impressive 19-year tenure as constituency secretary. He has held numerous leadership roles within the party and region, making him highly regarded and respected. His nomination is currently awaiting approval from the municipal assembly.

A press release signed by the Constituency Communications Officer, Aboyom Job, hails Mr. Ayoo’s appointment. The bureau sees it as a recognition of his unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the party and national development.

According to the statement, Mr. Ayoo’s appointment proves his exceptional dedication and contributions to the party and Ghana. His commitment is evident from his time as a TEIN member and leader during his student days. It also shows in his recent involvement in the constituency and Upper East Region.

The bureau recognized and praised the remaining candidates. These candidates participated in the choice process for Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs). The bureau assured them they would have their chance in the future.

Mr Ayoo is an established leader with extensive experience in academia and politics. He is anticipated to promote stronger partnerships among stakeholders in local governance. Additionally, he will advance development initiatives in the constituency.

The statement also expressed gratitude to former President John Dramani Mahama. They thanked him for his trust in appointing him to the significant leadership position.

The ICU has urged the government to revive the Pwalugu Tomato Factory in the Upper East Region. According to the Union, this action would generate jobs for the area’s youth. It would also reduce the country’s reliance on expensive tomato imports.

During his speech at the Union’s Upper East Regional Conference in Bolgatanga on March 28, 2025, General Secretary Mr. Morgan Ayawine urged the attendees to consider his plea.

Mr Ayawine highlighted the increasing issue of unemployment in the nation, resulting in widespread youth migration. He emphasized establishing successful and enduring industries to generate employment opportunities. He also suggested that these efforts would motivate young individuals to stay in rural regions. They play a role in advancing their communities. This would contribute to the nation’s overall socio-economic progress.

The state of several industries and businesses is causing great distress for the Union. It is amplifying the country’s already dire unemployment issue. A prime instance is the Pwalugu Tomato Factory in the Upper East Region. It has been deserted for years. This has left many locals without job opportunities,” he noted.

He fervently urged the revival of the Pwalugu Tomato Factory to increase job prospects in the area.

A structure at Pwalugu that holds back or controls the flow of water.

The General Secretary of ICU-Ghana praised the government’s plan to build a dam at Pwalugu. This dam will supplement the current dams in the Upper East Region. This development will significantly enhance the region’s agricultural endeavours and other economic undertakings.

The potential economic gains of building the dam at Pwalugu were emphasized.

Additionally, he implored all parties involved in the labour sphere to resolve issues about work conditions promptly. This action is necessary to avoid potential disruptions in workplace operations.

Amidst the current difficulties, the government, employers, and labour unions must collaborate. They need to resolve labour-related issues promptly and urgently. This action will prevent avoidable industrial disruptions. He stated that a lack of peace and cooperation in labour relations hampers productivity.

The ICU’s regional conference precedes the 12th Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference. It allows members to assess regional activities. Members can hold elections for the Youth, Women, and Regional Council positions. They can also pass resolutions for the national conference in August.

Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU).