Upper East Regional Minister outlines GH¢8.6bn development plan, calls for accountability

The Upper East Regional Minister of Ghana, Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has presented an ambitious ten-year development plan for the region, called the PEARL framework, which aims to mobilize approximately GH¢8.6 billion in public and private investment. This plan, set to span from 2026 to 2035, focuses on sectors such as agriculture, tourism, culture, enterprise, and human capital development.

During the 2026 Accounting to the People Forum, Atanga emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in government institutions, urging assemblies to prioritize completed projects, ensure value for money, and establish realistic timelines for unfinished works.

The Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA) is being implemented to promote agricultural modernisation, agribusiness, food security, and sustainable employment. Five districts in the Upper East region, namely Builsa South, Bongo, Kassena-Nankana Municipal, Garu-Tempane, and Talensi, have been selected to benefit from the first phase of the Farmer Service Centres initiative.

This initiative aims to provide modern agricultural machinery to selected districts across the country to improve farming operations and productivity.

A strategic infrastructure project, the Upper East Regional Airport, is expected to commence construction before the end of 2026 following a sod-cutting ceremony. This airport could enhance connectivity and strengthen the region's position as a commercial gateway to the Sahel, supporting trade, tourism, investment, and regional integration.

The minister also addressed critical infrastructure such as roads, which are vital for economic activity and social development. Several road projects are currently underway, including the Bongo-Balungu-Namoo Road, the Yorogo Chief Palace-Dua-Feo Road, and the Akayonga-Bongo Road. These improvements aim to connect communities to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and economic centers, reduce travel difficulties, and improve livelihoods.

He further highlighted the ongoing efforts in education, with 102 GETFund projects currently at various stages of completion, requesting the resolution of bottlenecks to ensure their timely completion.