Upper East Region - thesavannaonline

Addressing shortage of healthcare professionals in Upper East

Donatus Atanga Akamugri, Upper East Regional Minister, is determined to create a medical school in the region. He highlights that staffing difficulties, caused by security issues and limited professional prospects, discourage health professionals from accepting assignments.

As you correctly mentioned, there are various reasons why people are hesitant to post in this area. Primarily, it is due to economic factors and other concerns. Additionally, upbringing and preconceived notions about the region also play a role in shaping people’s attitudes towards the area.

“So if we address this issue by making sure that we provide a training centre, like the medical school, that is going to take off in the region, and people brought up here are trained, one thing is that they will disabuse their minds,” he said.

During a recent visit to the Upper East Regional Hospital, the Minister revealed that he had also held discussions with the Vice Chancellor of CKT-UTAS regarding the establishment of a medical school at the university. He is optimistic that this initiative will effectively address the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals in the region.

Furthermore, once medical doctors and health professionals arrive in the Upper East region, what options do they have for advancing their careers? Without access to educational opportunities, being a medical professional in this area may become less appealing, discouraging individuals from accepting job placements here.

“And apart from that, when they (medical doctors and health professionals) come to the Upper East, what are the opportunities for them to further? People will come to this place, and then if you come here as a medical person and you have no institution where you can upgrade your knowledge, it also goes a long way to serve as a disincentive, and it will discourage the people from accepting postings to this area.”

The Minister emphasised the region’s susceptibility, as demonstrated during the recent nurses’ strike. They emphasised that a medical school would not only educate local individuals but also attract healthcare investments and enhance conditions for the development of the healthcare sector.

“We are worst hit by the nurses strike because we do not have many of the private sector players in this sector. If we were to have many of such private sector players, at least it would be minimal because people would have the alternative. If the central government one is not working, I would go to the other area. But they are countable, and it is even in the regional capital you are talking about,” he stressed.

Dr Braimah Baba Abubakari, the Upper East Regional Health Director, praised the Minister for this initiative and expressed that he is currently coordinating with the university’s administration to ensure a successful launch of the medical programs at the institution.

Tensions rise in Gban as youth group accuses Poloo of endangering community stability.

The Alliance for Gban Development, a youth group in the Gban community of the Talensi District in the Upper East Region, has raised the alarm over what it describes as growing threats, intimidation, and insecurity allegedly orchestrated by Zongdan Boyak Kolog, popularly known as Poloo and his associates.

Speaking at a press conference held in Gban over the weekend, the group’s secretary, John Kpal Bognaab, laid bare the community’s grievances and called for swift government and security intervention to avert looming chaos.

The Alliance for Gban Development accused Poloo, a native of the nearby Yameriga community, of repeatedly disturbing the peace in Gban through unauthorized mining activities and violent attacks.

The group stated that Poloo, who had made his fortune through small-scale mining in Gban, had failed to respect the collective transition to large-scale mining, which Earl International Group Ghana Gold Limited manages.

According to Mr. Bognaab, Poloo was part of prior engagements and agreements between stakeholders during the transition to large-scale mining. “We have evidence that Polo participated actively in these engagements sponsored by the mining company. Yet, he now denies any involvement and has resorted to threats, intimidation, and provocation,” he stated.

The youth group narrated a series of violent incidents, including a shooting spree on January 25 and 26 this year when Poloo allegedly led a group believed to include armed men to storm the community mining area. “They fired sporadic gunshots, causing panic and forcing residents, including schoolchildren and health workers, to flee,” Mr. Bognaab recounted.

In response to this accusation, Tiroug Yaro Zumah, who identified himself as personal Secretary to Poloo, denied the claims that Poloo was trying to destabilize the peace of Gban. But when he was pushed further, Mr. Zumah said that even though Poloo “was taken to court for allegedly firing arms and possessing arms,” the claims against him may not be valid.

In a more recent development on May 31, a combined team of police and military officers arrested eight men allegedly hired by Poloo, who were reportedly armed and moving menacingly through the area. The youth group claims that Poloo holds no valid mining lease in Gban, a claim they say is backed by checks with state mining regulatory agencies.

“Ladies and gentlemen of the press, we wish to state clearly, based on our checks with the state agencies regulating the mining sector, that Poloo has no valid lease or concession anywhere in Gban. The lease he has been holding onto is currently not valid and, for want of a better word, non-existent,” Bognaab emphasized.

Regarding this claim, Secretary to Poloo Tiroug Yaro Zumah refuted it. “Poloo owns a legitimate concession, and his license is very active. He had an issue with Earl International, where Earl International wanted to acquire his concession by force. He went to court, and the court injunctured Earl International from operating on his concession. We have written to the police that people who are mining on Poloo’s concession are illegal miners,” Mr Zumah stated.

Members of the group who came out in their numbers expressed deep concern that without immediate intervention, the region could become the next flashpoint of violence. They called on the Minerals Commission to publicly clarify that Poloo has no legal mining claim in Gban and urged security agencies to expedite their investigations, applying the law firmly and impartially.

“We are lucky to have avoided casualties twice. But who knows what a third visit from Poloo might bring?” Bognaab warned.

In addition to law enforcement action, the group appealed to the Tongraan, the traditional overlord of the Talensi area, to summon the Yameriga chief and elders to caution their relative. “We believe if he has any respect for family and tradition, he may be restrained,” said the secretary.

The group also extended an invitation to the regional authorities, MDCEs, and the Upper East Regional Minister to intervene and help mediate the rising tensions. They also encouraged Earl International to deepen its engagement with the local youth and chiefs to ensure sustainable coexistence and employment for the people of Gban.

“We want peace, not war. But if we are forced to defend our lives and future, we will do so,” Secretary Mr. Bognaab concluded, reiterating the Alliance for Gban Development’s commitment to defending their community through lawful and peaceful means.

The MP for Talensi visited the Tolla and Digaare communities to evaluate the extent of damage caused by a recent rainstorm.

Daniel Dung Mahama is the Member of Parliament for Talensi Constituency. He recently paid a visit to those affected by a destructive rainstorm. This visit was reported by A1radioonline. The storm occurred on April 24, 2025. A severe storm caused damage to seven houses in the Tolla and Digaare communities. It also damaged two school buildings. Many families were displaced from their homes.

Mr. Mahama and Talensi’s District Chief Executive, John Millim Nabwomya, conducted an assessment tour on Sunday, April 27, 2025. The purpose of the visit was to show sympathy to the impacted families. They aimed to assess the degree of destruction. Additionally, they explored opportunities for advocating for aid from the government and other relevant organizations.

The Digaare MP praised Alhaji Naab Ibrahim Boarebon, the chief of Digaare. He promptly used his resources to replace the roof of Digaare Primary School. This ensured students could resume their academic activities without delay once schools reopened.

During his visit, Mr. Mahama expressed his condolences to the victims and emphasized the need for swift aid by NADMO and other relevant organizations. He praised the chief for acting to repair the damaged school roof. This action demonstrates strong leadership during this difficult time.

Mr. Nabwomya, the District Chief Executive, promised to work closely with NADMO. He will assess the availability of relief supplies for those affected. He also reassured the community of the district’s dedication to offering assistance whenever feasible.

Ayariga Mahamadu, the Assembly Member for the Datuko Electoral Area, was thankful to the MP and DCE for their visit. He recognized that the rainstorm had significantly impacted the community and urged immediate aid in rebuilding homes and livelihoods.

Upper East Region | Talensi

Daniel Kwame Gariba to run for NPP Regional Secretary

Daniel Kwame Gariba, the former Builsa South District Chief Executive, has declared his candidacy. He is running for the Upper East Regional Secretary position in the New Patriotic Party (NPP). This announcement marks a notable change in his political aspirations.

Gariba failed three times to obtain the parliamentary position in the Builsa South Constituency. Now, he has shifted his attention towards serving the party on a regional scale.

Daniel-Kwame-Gariba—Former-Bulsa-South-DCE

In an interview with Dreamz FM’s James Nana Tsiquaye, the former DCE indicated he’s ready for regional duties. Thus, he’ll be aiming for the position of Regional Secretary of the NPP. According to Mr Gariba, leadership is primarily concerned with serving others. He plans to utilize the leadership skills and qualities he exhibited as DCE to bolster the party.

He vowed to utilize his expertise and background. The NPP focused on revitalizing its foundation. They are preparing for the upcoming 2028 national elections.

Gariba strongly believed in the party’s chances. He declared that the NPP would regain control from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2028 elections. This would be achieved by working together with determination.

Today marks the return of Otumfuo’s mediation efforts in resolving the Bawku conflict.

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.

The Chief of Army Staff affirms GAF’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace in Bawku.

According to Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu, the Chief of the Army Staff for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), members of both the GAF and other security agencies are resolutely dedicated to reestablishing tranquillity and safety in Bawku, located in the Upper East Region.

He emphasised that the GAF and other agencies have been working towards resolving the crisis in Bawku, which has been ongoing between two opposing sides. This effort will continue to establish lasting peace for the people’s benefit.

While on an official visit to Bawku last Wednesday, April 23, 2025, Major General Gbetanu interacted with the media and discussed his interactions with chiefs and military personnel deployed to maintain law and order.

During his initial journey outside Accra since his appointment, the excursion allowed him to visit Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Overlord of Kusaug, and his elders. It also provided a chance to evaluate the current security and operational state on-site.

During the visit, Major General Gbetanu, along with Brigadier General Frank Nartey Tei, General Officer Commanding Northern Command, and Lieutenant Colonel Kakra Sasu-Antwi, Commander Rear of the 11 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, stopped by an outpost in Kpalore. This particular outpost was where a military officer had tragically lost their life recently.

In light of recent events, he shared concern regarding the increasing severity of the ongoing conflict. This has resulted in numerous deaths, including those of security forces attempting to quell the violence. In his words, “The GAF condemns all the killings and the cowardly acts in no uncertain terms”.

He explained that the personnel were diligently enforcing the curfew, conducting patrols, safeguarding key facilities, and deterring any further clashes to address the ongoing hostilities and prevent further violence.

While acknowledging that violence is not the solution, he urged all parties involved in the conflict to put down their weapons and adopt peaceful methods of resolving their disputes for all benefit.

Major-General Gbetanu reassured that the GAF remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and properties and will continue working towards establishing a peaceful and secure environment.

The Army Chief warned those causing unrest in Bawku, stating that their actions would not be tolerated. Any violent acts against civilians or soldiers would be regarded as acts of terrorism and dealt with accordingly.

He emphasised that such actions would not be tolerated and the military would respond with full force and determination. He made it clear that there would be no refuge for those who resort to violence.

“I have directed the personnel to undertake deliberate and targeted searches to retrieve weapons in the possession of the people”.

The speaker urged Naba Azoka II to encourage the community, particularly the young adults, to calmly collaborate with security forces to restore Bawku’s former prestige.

Through the Pusiga Naba, Naba Tambiisi-baaluk-Kunwiak Ibrahim Aguuri I, Naba Azoka II expressed appreciation for Major General Gbetanu’s visit to engage with essential figures in the pursuit of peace in Bawku and its surrounding areas.

He expressed worry over the methods security personnel use when accompanying residents who are leaving town. He requested that this practice be conducted in a way that does not hinder other drivers from using the road.

The speaker expressed sorrow over the fact that certain individuals are harmed and even lose their lives during escort activities in the town. They also commended the security personnel for their role in promoting tranquillity and resolving conflicts in Bawku.

Major General Gbetanu responded by assuring him that the escort operation would be carefully reviewed and carried out in a manner that prioritised the safety of the people involved.

Upper East Regional Lands Commission office complex takes off

In Bolgatanga, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Alhaji Yusif Sulemana, has led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Upper East Regional Lands Commission Office Complex. This event aims to tackle persistent infrastructure issues that have plagued the region’s Lands Commission.

Alhaji-Yusif-Sulemana—Deputy-Minister-for-Lands-and-Natural-Resources1

Alhaji Sulemana, speaking on behalf of the sector minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, highlighted the new facility’s benefits. It will improve land administration services, generate revenue, and promote regional job opportunities.

According to the Deputy Minister, land is crucial for economic, political, and social progress. A contemporary and efficient facility is necessary to effectively provide services and settle conflicts. The construction of this building will aid in achieving these goals.

According to Alhaji Sulemana, the Ministry is taking steps to introduce a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) in Parliament that will reinforce the legal framework for the Lands Commission’s operations. He also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expediting reforms to enhance land acquisition and documentation procedures, which are crucial for attracting local and foreign investment.

He stressed the significance of accurate land paperwork and how it enables small and medium enterprises to secure credit. He explained that the absence of collateral often prevents aspiring entrepreneurs from taking advantage of potential opportunities.

“We must help businesspeople secure land documents so they can access loans and expand their businesses. That is how we create jobs and grow our economy,” he emphasized.

In his speech at the event, the Deputy Minister harshly warned the contractor about poor quality and delays.

“We’re counting from today. You have exactly one year to hand over this building. No excuses. If you deliver well, more opportunities will come your way. But if not, you’ll have no future engagements with this Ministry,” he warned.

In addition, he stressed the importance of the contractor hiring indigenous craftsmen and workers to generate employment opportunities for community members and boost the area’s economic growth.

Alhaji Sulemana, also known as the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi, expressed his appreciation to traditional authorities and landowners for granting permission for the project and assured them of responsible land use.

According to Jonathan Kwabla Kene, the Upper East Regional Lands Officer, building the Upper East Regional Lands Commission Office Complex is an important milestone and a realization of a cherished goal for both the Commission and the region’s residents.

Mr Kene sincerely appreciated the Alegmia Abaa Family of Zorbisi for granting access to the land, which he emphasized was crucial in making the project a reality.

“This is a great day for the Lands Commission in the Upper East Region. For decades, we have operated without a dedicated office complex. Today marks the beginning of a significant transformation in how land services are delivered in the region,” he announced.

According to Mr Kene, the regional office is currently in a government building that it shares with multiple institutions. This arrangement impacts its efficiency, he noted.

“The lack of space has been a major impediment. Even the Chairman of the Lands Commission in the region has no dedicated office space. This has severely affected our operational efficiency and the capacity to increase our staff,” he expressed frustration.

The speaker addressed several obstacles facing land administration in the area, such as encroachment on state and public lands, complications with vested and de-vested lands, conflicts between the Land Act 2020 (Act 1036) and traditional land tenure systems, disputes over compensation, and the absence of subsidiary legislation to aid in implementing the Land Act.

Moreover, Mr. Kene mentioned the ongoing initiatives to address these issues. He reiterated the Commission’s dedication to promoting public awareness and engaging with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, landowners, and land sector agencies. He commended the recent implementation of digital solutions, specifically the Enterprise Land Information System (ELIS), for successfully streamlining land service delivery processes.

Samuel Azure attacked following the dismissal of a DCE candidate in Binduri.

On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, tensions flared up in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region due to the President’s nominee for District Chief Executive (DCE) being dramatically rejected.

According to reports, Samuel Azure, the recently elected Presiding Member and Assemblyman for the Kaadi Electoral Area, was allegedly attacked shortly after the passing of a vote of no confidence against the nominee.

According to eyewitnesses, the supposed attack occurred immediately following the assembly’s apparent rejection of the President’s nominee. Although the reason for the attack has not been verified, it has sparked fears about escalating political strains in the area.

The identities of those responsible for the attack and the specific details of the incident are still unclear. Currently, local authorities have not released an official statement regarding the situation.

The Binduri District Assembly has not yet announced its action plan after the unsuccessful DCE nominee’s confirmation.