Africa-Press – Ghana. A comprehensive development plan for Northern Ghana is taking shape, focusing on key areas such as agriculture, peacebuilding, healthcare, education, energy, and transport infrastructure.
Stakeholders, including government officials, traditional leaders, and development partners, are coming together to drive progress and unlock the region’s potential.
“We are working on a strategic initiative to develop the agricultural potential of Northern Ghana, aiming to make it the country’s breadbasket,” Mr. Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader, said.
He made the remarks on Tuesday in Parliament House during a stakeholder engagement with the Northern Caucus Members of Parliament.
The Northern Caucus in Parliament comprises 57 members from the five Northern Regions with the primary goal to set aside political differences and collaboratively pursue the development of the region.
“We believe that with the right support and partnerships, we can create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce migration to other regions,” Mr. Ayariga said.
According to the Majority Leader, the initiative included identifying 200,000 hectares of land for rice production, study tours to Kenya and Vietnam, and engaging importers to secure market guarantees.
He said, “We are looking at simpler, cost-effective irrigation technologies and solar-powered pumps to reduce energy costs and increase efficiency.”
Touching on peacebuilding, Mr. Ayariga noted that it was also a key focus, with a northern conference planned to facilitate dialogue between traditional and state rulers.
“We need to address underlying issues like land ownership and governance to prevent violent conflicts and promote peace and stability in the region,” he said.
Madam Samurai Bhatia, Deputy Development Director, British High Commission, lauded the Caucus for the progress made.
She said her outfit was keen to collaborate further, sharing ideas and expertise to drive progress.
She said development partners were aware of existing initiatives and were interested in exploring opportunities for investment and partnership.
Madam Bhatia cited the strengthening of the education sector, health systems strengthening, public financial management, entrepreneurship and skills building as some potential areas of collaboration.
She said: “The ultimate goal is to unlock the potential of Northern Ghana, address underlying challenges, and promote economic growth and stability.
“We are delighted to be part of this dialogue and look forward to exploring opportunities for collaboration and investment in Northern Ghana.”
Madam Bhatia added that the goal was to catalyze initiatives, ensure effective collaboration, and unlock the region’s potential.
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