Upper East to pursue GH₵8.6 bn PEARL development plan

The Upper East Region of Ghana is set to embark on a ten-year plan, titled Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods (PEARL), with an estimated investment of Gh₵8.6 billion. The plan aims to boost the regional economy and enhance livelihoods. This pledge was made by the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Donatus Akamugri, during a stakeholder review meeting in Bolgatanga.

The PEARL Framework, which covers all 15 municipalities and districts in the region, was presented and opened to stakeholder validation at a Regional Development and Business Forum organized by the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC). Mr Akamugri assured that the initiative would garner support from development partners, investors, and the private sector, with several stakeholders already expressing interest in the program.

He emphasized the government's commitment to transforming the national economy and noted the region's readiness to capitalize on available opportunities for development. Mr Akamugri stressed the importance of collective ownership of the PEARL plan, ensuring it remains unaffiliated to any institution, administration, or political party.

The review forum gathered Municipal and District Chief Executives, Members of Parliament, representatives from financial institutions, civil society organizations, academia, and other development partners to discuss accelerating the implementation of the PEARL Framework.