Peace key to unlocking Northern Ghana’s economic potential – NDPC chief

Dr Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), has emphasized the importance of sustained peace in Northern Ghana. She argued that peace is crucial for transforming the region's natural and economic resources into jobs, higher incomes, and improved living conditions. Dr Amoah made her remarks during the Northern Ghana Peace Conference in Tamale on October 26, 2026.

She highlighted that recurring conflicts have negatively impacted economic activity and the delivery of essential services, making it difficult for communities to overcome poverty and achieve their development goals. Despite the challenges, Dr Amoah noted that Northern Ghana has considerable potential that should not be overshadowed by its development issues.

She cited agriculture and livestock production as key areas for economic growth, along with value-added industries involving shea butter, groundnuts, and cereals. Dr Amoah proposed investment in processing, storage, and market access to help farmers and producers earn more from their output and create employment opportunities across the region.

She also referred to statistics from the Ghana Statistical Service, which showed that multidimensional poverty rates in the North East and Savannah regions exceeded 50 percent in the third quarter of 2025, underscoring the magnitude of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities. Dr Amoah stressed that conflict affects more than just security, disrupting farming, education, trade, and public services, while exacerbating existing inequalities.

She stressed that lasting peace would provide communities with the stability and confidence necessary to pursue their livelihoods and development aspirations. Dr Amoah concluded that peacebuilding and economic development must be pursued simultaneously if Northern Ghana is to unlock its potential and enhance the well-being of its people.