THE Medical Director of the Ghana Police Service, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Dr Godfried Asiamah, has paid a working visit to the Northern Region to find ways of establishing a Police Clinic in Tamale to enhance the health status of personnel stationed in the area.
The visit was necessary because the service had established clinics for its personnel in all the regional capitals with the exception of the Northern and Volta regions.
Dr Asiamah, who was accompanied on the tour by the Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Mr Ofosu-Mensah Gyeabour, toured such facilities as the Russian bungalow, and structures being occupied by the “operation gong gong” personnel in the metropolis.
The health director indicated that the service had a policy to ensure that all its personnel enjoyed free medical care and reiterated the resolve of the police administration to provide a health facility for those in the region.
“For us the Northern Region has a more pressing need because of its peculiar nature; that is why I am here to work closely with the Northern Regional Coordinating Council and the Regional Command to find a structure for the establishment of the clinic, “ he stressed.
Dr Asiamah further explained that when the facility was completed it would serve both civilians and security personnel in the area.
He, however, urged police personnel to as a matter of urgency,to take advantage of the National Health Insurance Scheme by registering to benefit from it.
Mr Gyeabour, for his part, observed that “in spite of the trying conditions under which the officers and men worked, they have kept faith with the service and have tried hard to ensure that the vision of the service is realised”.
According to him, the regional command was doing its best to restore public confidence in the service by instilling discipline in the personnel and at the same time fostering cordial relations with the public.
“The civil society and traditional rulers have lent their support leading to many operational successes, “ he further noted.
The regional commander observed that the region had structures for a police clinic but had been abandoned simply because personnel were not available to man it.
Mr Gyeabour said the lack of doctors was a major challenge to enhancing the health status of the police personnel and called for urgent steps to post new doctors to the area to effectively handle the facility when it was put in place.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
USE DIALOGUE TO RESOLVE DIFFERENCES (PAGE 17)
The Chief of Tamale, Dakpema Naa Mohammed Alhassan Dawuni, has advised the youth, particularly party activist in Tamale, to use dialogue and appropriate channels to resolve their differences rather than resorting to acts of lawlessness.
He further entreated both the security agencies and government to deal decisively with perpetrators of crime in the metropolis in order to serve as a deterrent to others to promote peace in the area.
The Dakpema stated this at a press conference at his Palace in Tamale on Monday, following some misunderstanding between two National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth groups over the weekend that led to the injury of three persons and the destruction of some properties.
The misunderstanding was said to be linked to the alleged withdrawal of the Northern Regional Chairman of the party, Alhaji Sumani Zakari's private car from the convoy of the Vice- President, Mr John Mahama, when he was met on arrival at the Tamale Airport to begin his three-day tour of the region last Friday.
The Dakpema further advised political party activists to resolve their differences using the various structures in their respective parties.
"The government should deal with such disturbances as a purely criminal matter and allow the security agencies to enforce the laws" he pointed out.
According to the chief, the "culture of impunity" must be avoided and government must not "shield anybody found out to be culpable".
Naa Alhassan also entreated opinion leaders to desist from lobbying to set free those who breach the peace in the metropolis.
"I as a chief would not accept that kind of act because if the law is made to work effectively it would rather deter others from flouting the laws," he stressed.
He expressed regret that inspite of the series of meetings he held with youth groups in the metropolis over the past three months, some of them were still engaging in acts to disturb the peace in the metropolis.
He further entreated both the security agencies and government to deal decisively with perpetrators of crime in the metropolis in order to serve as a deterrent to others to promote peace in the area.
The Dakpema stated this at a press conference at his Palace in Tamale on Monday, following some misunderstanding between two National Democratic Congress (NDC) youth groups over the weekend that led to the injury of three persons and the destruction of some properties.
The misunderstanding was said to be linked to the alleged withdrawal of the Northern Regional Chairman of the party, Alhaji Sumani Zakari's private car from the convoy of the Vice- President, Mr John Mahama, when he was met on arrival at the Tamale Airport to begin his three-day tour of the region last Friday.
The Dakpema further advised political party activists to resolve their differences using the various structures in their respective parties.
"The government should deal with such disturbances as a purely criminal matter and allow the security agencies to enforce the laws" he pointed out.
According to the chief, the "culture of impunity" must be avoided and government must not "shield anybody found out to be culpable".
Naa Alhassan also entreated opinion leaders to desist from lobbying to set free those who breach the peace in the metropolis.
"I as a chief would not accept that kind of act because if the law is made to work effectively it would rather deter others from flouting the laws," he stressed.
He expressed regret that inspite of the series of meetings he held with youth groups in the metropolis over the past three months, some of them were still engaging in acts to disturb the peace in the metropolis.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
COMMUNITY RADIO STATION FOR SANG (PAGE 20)
A Community Radio Station is to be established at Sang in the Yendi District to transmit development-oriented programmes by the close of next month.
The $400,000 station would also broadcast distant learning programmes under the School for Life intervention to benefit communities along the eastern corridor of the Northern Region.
It is being funded by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA).
The Chairman of the Ghana Development Communities Association (GDCA), Professor Abubakr Al-Hassan, who made this known at a three-day regional festival of Community Base Organisations (CBO’s) in Tamale, said, the project was being facilitated by the GDCA and would cover eight districts.
The districts include Zabzugu-Tatale, Saboba, Gushiegu, Kpandai, Nanumba North and South.
Prof. Al-Hassan further explained that the project involved the erection of a mast to facilitate transmission and procurement of other equipment, including furniture.
It was aimed at providing a platform for development agencies to share experiences and to inform other organisations of the new trends in the development sector.
The festival was instituted by the GDCA five years ago to sensitise communities to their roles and responsibilities and the need to demand accountability from officials.
This year’s programme was on the theme: “Promoting transparency and accountability through effective organisation of community- based civil society organisations”.
Prof. Al-Hassan called on CBOs in the Sang area to support the GDCA to facilitate the establishment of the new radio station.
He cautioned the people against using the station to promote political activities to the neglect of development programmes.
Prof. Al-Hassan gave a pledge on behalf of the GDCA to establish CBOs in all districts of the Northern Region, adding that it had so far formed the organisation in 14 districts of the region.
The Chairman of the CBO unit of the GDCA, Mr Haruna Husheini Sulemana, observed that the GDCA had been operating in the north for more than 28 years, promoting peace, good governance, transparency and accountability.
He noted with regret at the seeming “civic ignorance” among the youth who he claimed were easily manipulated to engage in lawlessness.
Mr Sulemana, therefore, entreated the youth to complement the efforts of civil society groups and non-governmental organisations to promote peace in the region.
The Northern Regional Programme Officer of SEND Ghana, an NGO, Mr Mohammed Mahamud, urged CBOs to engage in policy analysis and advocacy and help promote good governance in the country.
The $400,000 station would also broadcast distant learning programmes under the School for Life intervention to benefit communities along the eastern corridor of the Northern Region.
It is being funded by the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA).
The Chairman of the Ghana Development Communities Association (GDCA), Professor Abubakr Al-Hassan, who made this known at a three-day regional festival of Community Base Organisations (CBO’s) in Tamale, said, the project was being facilitated by the GDCA and would cover eight districts.
The districts include Zabzugu-Tatale, Saboba, Gushiegu, Kpandai, Nanumba North and South.
Prof. Al-Hassan further explained that the project involved the erection of a mast to facilitate transmission and procurement of other equipment, including furniture.
It was aimed at providing a platform for development agencies to share experiences and to inform other organisations of the new trends in the development sector.
The festival was instituted by the GDCA five years ago to sensitise communities to their roles and responsibilities and the need to demand accountability from officials.
This year’s programme was on the theme: “Promoting transparency and accountability through effective organisation of community- based civil society organisations”.
Prof. Al-Hassan called on CBOs in the Sang area to support the GDCA to facilitate the establishment of the new radio station.
He cautioned the people against using the station to promote political activities to the neglect of development programmes.
Prof. Al-Hassan gave a pledge on behalf of the GDCA to establish CBOs in all districts of the Northern Region, adding that it had so far formed the organisation in 14 districts of the region.
The Chairman of the CBO unit of the GDCA, Mr Haruna Husheini Sulemana, observed that the GDCA had been operating in the north for more than 28 years, promoting peace, good governance, transparency and accountability.
He noted with regret at the seeming “civic ignorance” among the youth who he claimed were easily manipulated to engage in lawlessness.
Mr Sulemana, therefore, entreated the youth to complement the efforts of civil society groups and non-governmental organisations to promote peace in the region.
The Northern Regional Programme Officer of SEND Ghana, an NGO, Mr Mohammed Mahamud, urged CBOs to engage in policy analysis and advocacy and help promote good governance in the country.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
SPLITTING THE NORTHERN REGION...Views from panellists in Tamale (MIRROR, PAGE 29)
Alhaji Mohammed Baba, Tamale
Metropolitan
Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE)
SPLITTING of regions is a constitutional provision and so if the need arises for the Northern Region to be split, why not.?
However, the process must be carefully carried out and pursued taking into consideration the various ethnic groups in the region.
We have four major tribes in the region, namely the Dagombas, Nanumbas, Mamprusis and Gonjas. The process must ensure that a separate region is not created for one ethnic group otherwise it would cause a lot of disharmony among the people.
It is also worthy to mention that the constitution demands that 70 per cent of residents living in the region must vote for or reject that proposal.
On the whole, I must say it would be a good idea if the Northern Region is split into two regions.
Mrs Wilhelmina Aklaku,
Director of the Picorna Hotel, Tamale
I do not see the need for a split of the Northern Region. The issue is that when you create a separate region, you have to provide more resources for provision of infrastructure which would be an additional financial burden on the government.
I would suggest to the government to do a proper assessment of the region and put in place a lot of interventions to help reduce poverty and other developmental challenges facing the region.
Government should equally make more resources available for the development of the region. The road network, potable water and creation of more employment for the youth are areas that should be critically looked at.
Concrete efforts must also be made to resolve chieftaincy disputes and other forms of conflicts in the region.
The issue of splitting the region should not be the priority of government for now.
Hajia Fati Akwei Allah,
Proprietress of the Akwei Allah Food
Complex in Tamale
In my opinion, the exercise is a very expensive one and so I would rather suggest to government to put in place mechanisms to ensure that the regional minister and the various district chief executives work harder for the accelerated development of the region.
The region is grappling with such challenges as education, health, streetism, among others, so why don’t we solve those problems rather than spending huge sums of money to create another region?
Creating another region would mean paying more staff and providing more infrastructure at the time when existing regions, particularly the Northern Region is deprived.
Madam Comfort Zakaria,
Proprietress of Sapaarak Home Kitchen, Tamale
The Northern Region is a vast area and travelling between one district and another is very tiresome, laborious and time-consuming.
Administratively, the region is very difficult to manage. One could just imagine if the regional minister decides to tour a number of districts within one day. How many of them can he visit within a day?
To me, splitting the region would make more resources available for development.
The proposed exercise is even long overdue.
Alhaji Abdulai Yahaya (chairman), Opinion Leader in Tamale
It is a welcome idea but it is long overdue. Splitting the region will enhance its development but it should not be an agenda for any group of people.
Creating a separate region would mean more employment for our teeming unemployed youth. I disagree with the assertion that it is a costly exercise.
Even if government spends huge sums of money, it is a good investment.
Alhaji Abukari Sumani
Tamale-based
Contractor
Splitting the region would facilitate its development and since we all cherish progress, l must say it is a step in the right direction.
We must go for a referendum and employ the services of experts to critically examine the process.
I hope the team of experts would take into consideration ethnicity before making the demarcations such that it does not create problems for the people.
I, however, admit that it is a costly exercise to undertake but I am convinced that the process is worth it.
Philemon Aboungo, Pastor of the
Seventh-Day
Adventist Church, Tamale
The proposed splitting of the region would promote healthy competition and the judicious utilisation of scarce resources.
The division might even help to resolve some of the conflicts in the region because if the demarcation is done properly, then those ethnic groups that occasionally engage in conflicts might be separated and that alone could end the conflicts among them.
I must stress here that we do not need more infrastructure to be able to create a separate region.
It is my wish that this process is implemented effectively.
Metropolitan
Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE)
SPLITTING of regions is a constitutional provision and so if the need arises for the Northern Region to be split, why not.?
However, the process must be carefully carried out and pursued taking into consideration the various ethnic groups in the region.
We have four major tribes in the region, namely the Dagombas, Nanumbas, Mamprusis and Gonjas. The process must ensure that a separate region is not created for one ethnic group otherwise it would cause a lot of disharmony among the people.
It is also worthy to mention that the constitution demands that 70 per cent of residents living in the region must vote for or reject that proposal.
On the whole, I must say it would be a good idea if the Northern Region is split into two regions.
Mrs Wilhelmina Aklaku,
Director of the Picorna Hotel, Tamale
I do not see the need for a split of the Northern Region. The issue is that when you create a separate region, you have to provide more resources for provision of infrastructure which would be an additional financial burden on the government.
I would suggest to the government to do a proper assessment of the region and put in place a lot of interventions to help reduce poverty and other developmental challenges facing the region.
Government should equally make more resources available for the development of the region. The road network, potable water and creation of more employment for the youth are areas that should be critically looked at.
Concrete efforts must also be made to resolve chieftaincy disputes and other forms of conflicts in the region.
The issue of splitting the region should not be the priority of government for now.
Hajia Fati Akwei Allah,
Proprietress of the Akwei Allah Food
Complex in Tamale
In my opinion, the exercise is a very expensive one and so I would rather suggest to government to put in place mechanisms to ensure that the regional minister and the various district chief executives work harder for the accelerated development of the region.
The region is grappling with such challenges as education, health, streetism, among others, so why don’t we solve those problems rather than spending huge sums of money to create another region?
Creating another region would mean paying more staff and providing more infrastructure at the time when existing regions, particularly the Northern Region is deprived.
Madam Comfort Zakaria,
Proprietress of Sapaarak Home Kitchen, Tamale
The Northern Region is a vast area and travelling between one district and another is very tiresome, laborious and time-consuming.
Administratively, the region is very difficult to manage. One could just imagine if the regional minister decides to tour a number of districts within one day. How many of them can he visit within a day?
To me, splitting the region would make more resources available for development.
The proposed exercise is even long overdue.
Alhaji Abdulai Yahaya (chairman), Opinion Leader in Tamale
It is a welcome idea but it is long overdue. Splitting the region will enhance its development but it should not be an agenda for any group of people.
Creating a separate region would mean more employment for our teeming unemployed youth. I disagree with the assertion that it is a costly exercise.
Even if government spends huge sums of money, it is a good investment.
Alhaji Abukari Sumani
Tamale-based
Contractor
Splitting the region would facilitate its development and since we all cherish progress, l must say it is a step in the right direction.
We must go for a referendum and employ the services of experts to critically examine the process.
I hope the team of experts would take into consideration ethnicity before making the demarcations such that it does not create problems for the people.
I, however, admit that it is a costly exercise to undertake but I am convinced that the process is worth it.
Philemon Aboungo, Pastor of the
Seventh-Day
Adventist Church, Tamale
The proposed splitting of the region would promote healthy competition and the judicious utilisation of scarce resources.
The division might even help to resolve some of the conflicts in the region because if the demarcation is done properly, then those ethnic groups that occasionally engage in conflicts might be separated and that alone could end the conflicts among them.
I must stress here that we do not need more infrastructure to be able to create a separate region.
It is my wish that this process is implemented effectively.
SAVANNAH CEMENT TO ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (BACK PAGE)
THE management of the Savannah Cement Company Limited (SAVACEM) has earmarked GH¢619,500 over the next three years to address environmental challenges of the company's operations when production begins in June, next year.
The Project Co-ordinator of SAVACEM, Mr Joseph Ofosu-Mensah, who made this known at a public forum on the Environmental Impact Assessment report of the company, said the management had proposed to set up a department within the company to deal with occupational hazards and public safety.
The forum — attended by traditional rulers, opinion leaders, politicians, officials of the Minerals Commission, the EPA and consultants — was organised by the EPA to, among other issues, provide a platform for SAVACEM management to inform the Buipe community about the outcome of its EIA report. The forum was also aimed at promoting effective public participation in Ghana’s Environmental Impact Assessment process.
Mr Ofosu-Mensah explained that the funding would also cater for reclamation and decommissioning programmes in line with the current EPA mines and quarries decommissioning regulations.
According to Mr Ofosu-Mensah, environmental considerations have been incorporated in the design and equipment selection of the entire plant.
The co-ordinator indicated that heavy noise emitting equipment would be provided with enclosures and noise dampening devices while provision of protective ear plugs for workers would also be taken care of.
He observed that water browsers would be used to suppress dust while the company would also ensure the regular clearing of blocked natural drains and culverts to avoid flooding during the rainy season.
Residents of the area, however, raised concerns over the payment of royalties and re-afforestation programmes on replenishing shea-trees that would be cut down to make way for the use of limestone deposits.
Others pointed out to the management of SAVACEM to ensure that its social responsibility programme was strictly adhered to and wondered whether there was a mechanism to monitor the implementation of that programme.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina, suggested to the management of the company to float shares to enable residents of Buipe and the entire region to have a stake in the fortunes of SAVACEM.
He equally entreated the company to expand its concession to last longer than the stipulated 50 years.
The Project Co-ordinator of SAVACEM, Mr Joseph Ofosu-Mensah, who made this known at a public forum on the Environmental Impact Assessment report of the company, said the management had proposed to set up a department within the company to deal with occupational hazards and public safety.
The forum — attended by traditional rulers, opinion leaders, politicians, officials of the Minerals Commission, the EPA and consultants — was organised by the EPA to, among other issues, provide a platform for SAVACEM management to inform the Buipe community about the outcome of its EIA report. The forum was also aimed at promoting effective public participation in Ghana’s Environmental Impact Assessment process.
Mr Ofosu-Mensah explained that the funding would also cater for reclamation and decommissioning programmes in line with the current EPA mines and quarries decommissioning regulations.
According to Mr Ofosu-Mensah, environmental considerations have been incorporated in the design and equipment selection of the entire plant.
The co-ordinator indicated that heavy noise emitting equipment would be provided with enclosures and noise dampening devices while provision of protective ear plugs for workers would also be taken care of.
He observed that water browsers would be used to suppress dust while the company would also ensure the regular clearing of blocked natural drains and culverts to avoid flooding during the rainy season.
Residents of the area, however, raised concerns over the payment of royalties and re-afforestation programmes on replenishing shea-trees that would be cut down to make way for the use of limestone deposits.
Others pointed out to the management of SAVACEM to ensure that its social responsibility programme was strictly adhered to and wondered whether there was a mechanism to monitor the implementation of that programme.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina, suggested to the management of the company to float shares to enable residents of Buipe and the entire region to have a stake in the fortunes of SAVACEM.
He equally entreated the company to expand its concession to last longer than the stipulated 50 years.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
YENDI ASSEMBLY CONFIRMS NOMINEE (PAGE 15)
MAJORITY of members of the Yendi Municipal Assembly have confirmed Mr Mahama Walvis Hudu as the new Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the assembly at a meeting in Yendi on Tuesday.
Fifty-seven of the members representing 93.4 per cent of the 61-member House voted in favour of the 52-year-old MCE who is a development worker and youth activist while two members voted against his nomination with two rejected ballots.
The assembly also elected Mr Iddrisu Hussein, a teacher as its new Presiding Member (PM).
The voting and subsequent confirmation of both the MCE and the PM by the House was done in an atmosphere of peace and harmony at the Yendi Community Centre conference hall which was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd.
Mr Hussein for his part, polled 47 votes to beat his contender Mr Suleman Habib who had 14 votes. The third person in the race, Mr Adam Alhassan had earlier on stepped down.
The Circuit Court Judge, Mr George Krofa Addae, subsequently swore the PM into office.
The election was supervised by the Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, Mr Sylvester Kanyi.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Hudu expressed gratitude to the traditional authorities, residents of the area and assembly members for the confidence reposed in him.
“I see this position as a challenge and my major preoccupation will be to unite the people for the accelerated development of the area; leadership is not about lording it over people” the new MCE observed.
He equally pledged to liaise with development partners in the municipality to promote peace and create more jobs for the youth.
The new PM for his part, promised to unite members of the House no matter their political affiliation to move business in the assembly forward.
He however entreated the members to bring their expertise to bear on the activities of the House.
“Let us eschew rumours and mistrust and rather focus on how best to make life bearable for our people” Mr Hussein advised.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina noted that the peaceful manner in which the confirmation was done was a clear manifestation of the “political maturity” exhibited by the assembly members.
“We have proved to the whole world that there is unity in diversity and Yendi is a civilised area” he noted.
Fifty-seven of the members representing 93.4 per cent of the 61-member House voted in favour of the 52-year-old MCE who is a development worker and youth activist while two members voted against his nomination with two rejected ballots.
The assembly also elected Mr Iddrisu Hussein, a teacher as its new Presiding Member (PM).
The voting and subsequent confirmation of both the MCE and the PM by the House was done in an atmosphere of peace and harmony at the Yendi Community Centre conference hall which was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd.
Mr Hussein for his part, polled 47 votes to beat his contender Mr Suleman Habib who had 14 votes. The third person in the race, Mr Adam Alhassan had earlier on stepped down.
The Circuit Court Judge, Mr George Krofa Addae, subsequently swore the PM into office.
The election was supervised by the Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, Mr Sylvester Kanyi.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Hudu expressed gratitude to the traditional authorities, residents of the area and assembly members for the confidence reposed in him.
“I see this position as a challenge and my major preoccupation will be to unite the people for the accelerated development of the area; leadership is not about lording it over people” the new MCE observed.
He equally pledged to liaise with development partners in the municipality to promote peace and create more jobs for the youth.
The new PM for his part, promised to unite members of the House no matter their political affiliation to move business in the assembly forward.
He however entreated the members to bring their expertise to bear on the activities of the House.
“Let us eschew rumours and mistrust and rather focus on how best to make life bearable for our people” Mr Hussein advised.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina noted that the peaceful manner in which the confirmation was done was a clear manifestation of the “political maturity” exhibited by the assembly members.
“We have proved to the whole world that there is unity in diversity and Yendi is a civilised area” he noted.
YENDI ASSEMBLY CONFIRMS NOMINEE (PAGE 15)
MAJORITY of members of the Yendi Municipal Assembly have confirmed Mr Mahama Walvis Hudu as the new Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the assembly at a meeting in Yendi on Tuesday.
Fifty-seven of the members representing 93.4 per cent of the 61-member House voted in favour of the 52-year-old MCE who is a development worker and youth activist while two members voted against his nomination with two rejected ballots.
The assembly also elected Mr Iddrisu Hussein, a teacher as its new Presiding Member (PM).
The voting and subsequent confirmation of both the MCE and the PM by the House was done in an atmosphere of peace and harmony at the Yendi Community Centre conference hall which was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd.
Mr Hussein for his part, polled 47 votes to beat his contender Mr Suleman Habib who had 14 votes. The third person in the race, Mr Adam Alhassan had earlier on stepped down.
The Circuit Court Judge, Mr George Krofa Addae, subsequently swore the PM into office.
The election was supervised by the Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, Mr Sylvester Kanyi.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Hudu expressed gratitude to the traditional authorities, residents of the area and assembly members for the confidence reposed in him.
“I see this position as a challenge and my major preoccupation will be to unite the people for the accelerated development of the area; leadership is not about lording it over people” the new MCE observed.
He equally pledged to liaise with development partners in the municipality to promote peace and create more jobs for the youth.
The new PM for his part, promised to unite members of the House no matter their political affiliation to move business in the assembly forward.
He however entreated the members to bring their expertise to bear on the activities of the House.
“Let us eschew rumours and mistrust and rather focus on how best to make life bearable for our people” Mr Hussein advised.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina noted that the peaceful manner in which the confirmation was done was a clear manifestation of the “political maturity” exhibited by the assembly members.
“We have proved to the whole world that there is unity in diversity and Yendi is a civilised area” he noted.
Fifty-seven of the members representing 93.4 per cent of the 61-member House voted in favour of the 52-year-old MCE who is a development worker and youth activist while two members voted against his nomination with two rejected ballots.
The assembly also elected Mr Iddrisu Hussein, a teacher as its new Presiding Member (PM).
The voting and subsequent confirmation of both the MCE and the PM by the House was done in an atmosphere of peace and harmony at the Yendi Community Centre conference hall which was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd.
Mr Hussein for his part, polled 47 votes to beat his contender Mr Suleman Habib who had 14 votes. The third person in the race, Mr Adam Alhassan had earlier on stepped down.
The Circuit Court Judge, Mr George Krofa Addae, subsequently swore the PM into office.
The election was supervised by the Regional Director of the Electoral Commission, Mr Sylvester Kanyi.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Hudu expressed gratitude to the traditional authorities, residents of the area and assembly members for the confidence reposed in him.
“I see this position as a challenge and my major preoccupation will be to unite the people for the accelerated development of the area; leadership is not about lording it over people” the new MCE observed.
He equally pledged to liaise with development partners in the municipality to promote peace and create more jobs for the youth.
The new PM for his part, promised to unite members of the House no matter their political affiliation to move business in the assembly forward.
He however entreated the members to bring their expertise to bear on the activities of the House.
“Let us eschew rumours and mistrust and rather focus on how best to make life bearable for our people” Mr Hussein advised.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina noted that the peaceful manner in which the confirmation was done was a clear manifestation of the “political maturity” exhibited by the assembly members.
“We have proved to the whole world that there is unity in diversity and Yendi is a civilised area” he noted.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
NAGRAT TO SET UP PROVIDENT FUND (PAGE 11)
THE National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT) is to institute a Provident Fund Scheme for its members by June this year.
When it becomes operational, the scheme will have such packages as retirement, housing, car and furniture loans to enhance the quality of life of the beneficiaries .
The Northern Regional Chairman of NAGRAT, Mr Lordson Afedo, made this known in Tamale during the inauguration of the NAGRAT Ladies of Excellence, an association formed to increase the participation of women in NAGRAT activities. A 12-member executive for the new association was sworn into office.
Mr Afedo intimated that beneficiaries of the fund must have contributed for at least a year before one can qualify for a loan.
He noted that the new association would enhance the involvement of women in the activities of NAGRAT.
The Regional Industrial Relations Officer of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), Mr Ralph Apaaya urged executives of the new association to strive for excellence and to be innovative in order to surmount the challenges ahead.
He said we need leaders who could demonstrate sterling qualities like commitment and responsible leadership, adding that, teachers produced the rich human resource base of the country hence efforts should be made to enhance their living conditions.
The Regional Coordinator of the Ghana National Association of Teachers-Ladies Society (GNAT-LAS), Madam Rosina Awuni, urged leaders of the NAGRAT Ladies to be transparent and to operate an open door policy.
“Do not put monetary issues above your activities else you might not be able to achieve anything for your association“ she advised.
The President of the NAGRAT Ladies Association, Madam Ewuntomah pledged on behalf of her colleagues to work hard to ensure that the objectives of establishing the association was realised.
She, however, called on members of NAGRAT, particularly ladies to cooperate with its leadership to enhance the fortunes of the association.
When it becomes operational, the scheme will have such packages as retirement, housing, car and furniture loans to enhance the quality of life of the beneficiaries .
The Northern Regional Chairman of NAGRAT, Mr Lordson Afedo, made this known in Tamale during the inauguration of the NAGRAT Ladies of Excellence, an association formed to increase the participation of women in NAGRAT activities. A 12-member executive for the new association was sworn into office.
Mr Afedo intimated that beneficiaries of the fund must have contributed for at least a year before one can qualify for a loan.
He noted that the new association would enhance the involvement of women in the activities of NAGRAT.
The Regional Industrial Relations Officer of the Teachers and Educational Workers Union (TEWU), Mr Ralph Apaaya urged executives of the new association to strive for excellence and to be innovative in order to surmount the challenges ahead.
He said we need leaders who could demonstrate sterling qualities like commitment and responsible leadership, adding that, teachers produced the rich human resource base of the country hence efforts should be made to enhance their living conditions.
The Regional Coordinator of the Ghana National Association of Teachers-Ladies Society (GNAT-LAS), Madam Rosina Awuni, urged leaders of the NAGRAT Ladies to be transparent and to operate an open door policy.
“Do not put monetary issues above your activities else you might not be able to achieve anything for your association“ she advised.
The President of the NAGRAT Ladies Association, Madam Ewuntomah pledged on behalf of her colleagues to work hard to ensure that the objectives of establishing the association was realised.
She, however, called on members of NAGRAT, particularly ladies to cooperate with its leadership to enhance the fortunes of the association.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
CREDIT CRUNCH...Any hope for NGOs and the rural poor? (PAGE 9)
IN recent times, the media has been inundated with reports of global market recession otherwise known as the credit crunch. The impact of this global phenomenon is already being felt by both individuals and organisations in developed and developing economies.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for instance, recently reported that even the world’s richest and investment gurus like Messrs Warrant Buffet and Bill Gates have suffered significant losses in their investments, following the stock market meltdown on the Wall Street.
The Information Communication and Technology(ICT) magnate, Bill Gates had his fortunes decline by $18 billion while Mr. Buffet who until this year was the world’s richest person, lost over $25 billion and consequently slipped to the second position on the Global Billionnaires Rich List.
The notorious collapse of investment giants like Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch are very fresh on the minds of people in the developed markets particularly those who have lost their jobs.
As expected, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) world wide are scaling down their activities with its attendant problems like job losses that have affected some staff.
Among the NGOs that have been reportedly affected are Oxfam GB, the Opportunities Industrialisation Centres International (OICI), and the Catholic Relief Services (CRS).
In Tamale, it is on record that 108 NGOs have registered with the Department of Social Welfare to operate in the Metropolis as well as other parts of the Northern Region to bring relief to the rural poor.
Most of them have confessed that the global market recession was affecting their activities as they could no longer meet their targets. This might in one way or the other affect beneficiaries of interventions from these organisations.
It is however refreshing to note that some of the NGOs in Tamale have started re-strategising to cope with the current effects of the credit crunch.
A credit crunch is a reduction in the general availability of loans and credit or a sudden tightening of the conditions required to obtain a loan from the banks.
It equally means there is a reduction in the availability of credit independence of a rise in official interest rates. Many times a credit crunch is accompanied by a flight to quality by lenders and investors as they seek less risky investments often at the expense of small to medium size enterprises.
In the midst of this gloomy picture, some NGOs in Tamale and for that matter the Northern Region like the Ghana Network for Peace Building (GHANEP), the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) and the Northern Ghana Network for Development (NGND) have placed emphasis on generating their own funds rather than depending on donor funding.
It is worthy to note that the NGOs have over the years contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the people in their operational areas. Sectors such as education, health, provision of potable water, credit facilities for income-generating activities among others have for instance experienced some growth and donor support through the NGOs.
It is on record that some rural communities do not know about the existence of a central government because of the heavy presence of some NGOs in those communities.
Figures show that School for Life for instance, has supported over 100,000 children in the three Northern regions to acquire formal education up to the secondary level.
Hafiz Muntaka, the acting National Network Co-ordinator of GHANEP, indicated that his outfit was fine tuning its activities to focus on conflict interventions and transformation.
“Even before the credit crunch, we were facing financial constraints, that is why we are changing the focus of our activities to raise more funds” he observed.
Established in 2002, GHANEP is to primarily prevent, transform and resolve conflicts through a co-ordinated effort of peace building organisations and individuals in the country. The organisation is operational in six regions namely, Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Brong Ahafo, Volta and Ashanti.
At the moment, the CCFC has also curtailed its six-year strategic plan towards addressing the needs of children in deprived communities. For over a decade, the CCFC Ghana office has been supporting children and families regardless of their religious and ethnic backgrounds to enable them to break the cycle of extreme poverty and replace it with a cycle of self-reliance.
Indeed, the curtailing of programmes by CCFC could have serious effects on children in Tamale and the entire region in terms of provision of educational materials and construction of Early Childhood Development Centres.
The Communications Manager of the CCFC, Mr Justin Bayor, minced no words when he said that “our support base is dwindling and it means we cannot achieve our targets”.
He further explained that the organisation could no longer construct rain water harvesting tanks, health facilities, household latrines, and Early Child hood Development Centres because of the credit crunch.
“CCFC is therefore re-strategising with the aim of generating funds internally to continue its programmes; but we are not folding up, “he noted.
In view of the current state of affairs globally, one is tempted to ask whether there is any hope for the rural people and the NGOs themselves or whether there is a way out of this current global economic shock.
For one thing, it is refreshing to note that some NGOs foresaw the effects of the crunch and have already put in place some interventions to mitigate them. That in itself is commendable and shows the vision and foresight exhibited by some NGOs in Tamale.
Some suggestions have been put forward by some analysts of the crunch.
The Executive Secretary of the Northern Ghana Network for Development, Mr. Ismail Lansah, has for instance advised NGOs to go into Rights Based Development programmes in order to survive the global recession.
The Secretary explained that there has been a paradigm shift from depending on donor funding for service delivery to Rights Based Approach (RBA) programmes even before the crunch started.
Rights-based Approach involves making communities aware about their roles and responsibilities in holding the government accountable to the provision of social amenities.
According to Mr Lansah, if any donor agency would provide funding to any organisation now, then it would be channelled towards supporting RBA programmes.
Unfortunately however, the development worker contended that most of the local NGOs do not have the capacity to engage in the RBA programmes. He explained that for instance, NGOs would need high calibre of competent staff who are experts in managing and carrying out RBA programmes.
“Majority of indigenous NGOs and Community-Based Organisations are excellent in community mobilisation and service delivery at the grass roots; they are yet to optimise their skills in RBA programmes,” Mr Lansah further observed.
One pertinent question worthy of consideration is: Why are International donor agencies now interested in the RBAs?
The first reason, according to Mr. Lansah, is that donor agencies are supporting organisations in Ghana which venture into RBA programmes due to the fact that the country has earned respect from the International Community regarding its stable political environment and the subsequent consolidation of her democracy. The other reason is that donor agencies are now venturing into what is termed the “Multi Donor Budget Support System” where government budget is funded directly by donors for the provision of social amenities.
What are the implications of this paradigm shift in donor support for local NGOs in Tamale?
They are not far- fetched because such a situation apparently means that there would be less money for NGOs to go into direct service delivery at the community level. Therefore, Think tank groups like the Centre for Policy Analysis, Institute for Democratic Governance, the Integrated Social Development Centre and the Institute for Policy Alternatives that have already taken the lead in designing Rights Based development programmes would be doing something meaningful. This is because they would be engaged in programmes that are eventually tailored towards community sensitisation to ensure that government is accountable to the people in the provision of social amenities.
In order to survive this crunch phenomenon, some development workers have suggested to NGOs the critical examination of government’s pro-poor policies such as the free maternal care programme, and the Livelihood Empowerment Action Programme (LEAP) to sensitise communities to demand accountability from duty-bearers.
One is therefore tempted to ask whether there is light at the end of the tunnel in spite of the credit crunch?
If those suggestions by analysts in Tamale are anything to go by, then it means the NGO sector that undoubtedly drives the economy of the Metropolis and for that matter, Northern Ghana, would survive whether there is a global recession or not. This means there is hope for the rural poor if the NGOs tailor their programmes towards community sensitisation to demand accountability from duty-bearers regarding the provision of social amenities by government.
However, the NGOs must be innovative in designing new programmes to avoid duplication of functions.
Indeed, some residents of the Northern Region have raised concerns over duplication of functions by some NGOs, unco-ordinated programmes and the lack of an effective monitoring system to check cases of alleged abuse of funds meant for the poor.
The Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare, Mr. Jacob Achulo for instance, argued that the lack of effective monitoring machinery was affecting efforts at assessing the impact of NGO activity on the socio-economic lives of the rural people.
“Some of the NGOs operate on the quiet for several years in the region without registering their organisation until when the time comes for them to access credit facilities and funding from abroad, then they come rushing to us for registration and the subsequent acquisition of certificates,” Mr Achulo noted.
Some development workers have however indicated that there is a monitoring system in place.
For instance, Mr Lansah contended that an NGO Standards Commission had been set up at the national level where NGOs are scrutinised by professionals and experts in the field. The programme is being funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
Apart from this, donor agencies usually engage the services of international consultants to monitor and evaluate programmes of NGOs using their own proposals on the objectives and expected achievements of their activities.
The ultimate aim of such a monitoring mechanism is to ensure that funds made available commensurate with service delivery provided by NGOs in their respective operational areas.
Whatever the case may be, issues of accountability are very critical to accelerated development and enhancing the quality of life of people particularly in the rural communities.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for instance, recently reported that even the world’s richest and investment gurus like Messrs Warrant Buffet and Bill Gates have suffered significant losses in their investments, following the stock market meltdown on the Wall Street.
The Information Communication and Technology(ICT) magnate, Bill Gates had his fortunes decline by $18 billion while Mr. Buffet who until this year was the world’s richest person, lost over $25 billion and consequently slipped to the second position on the Global Billionnaires Rich List.
The notorious collapse of investment giants like Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch are very fresh on the minds of people in the developed markets particularly those who have lost their jobs.
As expected, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) world wide are scaling down their activities with its attendant problems like job losses that have affected some staff.
Among the NGOs that have been reportedly affected are Oxfam GB, the Opportunities Industrialisation Centres International (OICI), and the Catholic Relief Services (CRS).
In Tamale, it is on record that 108 NGOs have registered with the Department of Social Welfare to operate in the Metropolis as well as other parts of the Northern Region to bring relief to the rural poor.
Most of them have confessed that the global market recession was affecting their activities as they could no longer meet their targets. This might in one way or the other affect beneficiaries of interventions from these organisations.
It is however refreshing to note that some of the NGOs in Tamale have started re-strategising to cope with the current effects of the credit crunch.
A credit crunch is a reduction in the general availability of loans and credit or a sudden tightening of the conditions required to obtain a loan from the banks.
It equally means there is a reduction in the availability of credit independence of a rise in official interest rates. Many times a credit crunch is accompanied by a flight to quality by lenders and investors as they seek less risky investments often at the expense of small to medium size enterprises.
In the midst of this gloomy picture, some NGOs in Tamale and for that matter the Northern Region like the Ghana Network for Peace Building (GHANEP), the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) and the Northern Ghana Network for Development (NGND) have placed emphasis on generating their own funds rather than depending on donor funding.
It is worthy to note that the NGOs have over the years contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the people in their operational areas. Sectors such as education, health, provision of potable water, credit facilities for income-generating activities among others have for instance experienced some growth and donor support through the NGOs.
It is on record that some rural communities do not know about the existence of a central government because of the heavy presence of some NGOs in those communities.
Figures show that School for Life for instance, has supported over 100,000 children in the three Northern regions to acquire formal education up to the secondary level.
Hafiz Muntaka, the acting National Network Co-ordinator of GHANEP, indicated that his outfit was fine tuning its activities to focus on conflict interventions and transformation.
“Even before the credit crunch, we were facing financial constraints, that is why we are changing the focus of our activities to raise more funds” he observed.
Established in 2002, GHANEP is to primarily prevent, transform and resolve conflicts through a co-ordinated effort of peace building organisations and individuals in the country. The organisation is operational in six regions namely, Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Brong Ahafo, Volta and Ashanti.
At the moment, the CCFC has also curtailed its six-year strategic plan towards addressing the needs of children in deprived communities. For over a decade, the CCFC Ghana office has been supporting children and families regardless of their religious and ethnic backgrounds to enable them to break the cycle of extreme poverty and replace it with a cycle of self-reliance.
Indeed, the curtailing of programmes by CCFC could have serious effects on children in Tamale and the entire region in terms of provision of educational materials and construction of Early Childhood Development Centres.
The Communications Manager of the CCFC, Mr Justin Bayor, minced no words when he said that “our support base is dwindling and it means we cannot achieve our targets”.
He further explained that the organisation could no longer construct rain water harvesting tanks, health facilities, household latrines, and Early Child hood Development Centres because of the credit crunch.
“CCFC is therefore re-strategising with the aim of generating funds internally to continue its programmes; but we are not folding up, “he noted.
In view of the current state of affairs globally, one is tempted to ask whether there is any hope for the rural people and the NGOs themselves or whether there is a way out of this current global economic shock.
For one thing, it is refreshing to note that some NGOs foresaw the effects of the crunch and have already put in place some interventions to mitigate them. That in itself is commendable and shows the vision and foresight exhibited by some NGOs in Tamale.
Some suggestions have been put forward by some analysts of the crunch.
The Executive Secretary of the Northern Ghana Network for Development, Mr. Ismail Lansah, has for instance advised NGOs to go into Rights Based Development programmes in order to survive the global recession.
The Secretary explained that there has been a paradigm shift from depending on donor funding for service delivery to Rights Based Approach (RBA) programmes even before the crunch started.
Rights-based Approach involves making communities aware about their roles and responsibilities in holding the government accountable to the provision of social amenities.
According to Mr Lansah, if any donor agency would provide funding to any organisation now, then it would be channelled towards supporting RBA programmes.
Unfortunately however, the development worker contended that most of the local NGOs do not have the capacity to engage in the RBA programmes. He explained that for instance, NGOs would need high calibre of competent staff who are experts in managing and carrying out RBA programmes.
“Majority of indigenous NGOs and Community-Based Organisations are excellent in community mobilisation and service delivery at the grass roots; they are yet to optimise their skills in RBA programmes,” Mr Lansah further observed.
One pertinent question worthy of consideration is: Why are International donor agencies now interested in the RBAs?
The first reason, according to Mr. Lansah, is that donor agencies are supporting organisations in Ghana which venture into RBA programmes due to the fact that the country has earned respect from the International Community regarding its stable political environment and the subsequent consolidation of her democracy. The other reason is that donor agencies are now venturing into what is termed the “Multi Donor Budget Support System” where government budget is funded directly by donors for the provision of social amenities.
What are the implications of this paradigm shift in donor support for local NGOs in Tamale?
They are not far- fetched because such a situation apparently means that there would be less money for NGOs to go into direct service delivery at the community level. Therefore, Think tank groups like the Centre for Policy Analysis, Institute for Democratic Governance, the Integrated Social Development Centre and the Institute for Policy Alternatives that have already taken the lead in designing Rights Based development programmes would be doing something meaningful. This is because they would be engaged in programmes that are eventually tailored towards community sensitisation to ensure that government is accountable to the people in the provision of social amenities.
In order to survive this crunch phenomenon, some development workers have suggested to NGOs the critical examination of government’s pro-poor policies such as the free maternal care programme, and the Livelihood Empowerment Action Programme (LEAP) to sensitise communities to demand accountability from duty-bearers.
One is therefore tempted to ask whether there is light at the end of the tunnel in spite of the credit crunch?
If those suggestions by analysts in Tamale are anything to go by, then it means the NGO sector that undoubtedly drives the economy of the Metropolis and for that matter, Northern Ghana, would survive whether there is a global recession or not. This means there is hope for the rural poor if the NGOs tailor their programmes towards community sensitisation to demand accountability from duty-bearers regarding the provision of social amenities by government.
However, the NGOs must be innovative in designing new programmes to avoid duplication of functions.
Indeed, some residents of the Northern Region have raised concerns over duplication of functions by some NGOs, unco-ordinated programmes and the lack of an effective monitoring system to check cases of alleged abuse of funds meant for the poor.
The Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare, Mr. Jacob Achulo for instance, argued that the lack of effective monitoring machinery was affecting efforts at assessing the impact of NGO activity on the socio-economic lives of the rural people.
“Some of the NGOs operate on the quiet for several years in the region without registering their organisation until when the time comes for them to access credit facilities and funding from abroad, then they come rushing to us for registration and the subsequent acquisition of certificates,” Mr Achulo noted.
Some development workers have however indicated that there is a monitoring system in place.
For instance, Mr Lansah contended that an NGO Standards Commission had been set up at the national level where NGOs are scrutinised by professionals and experts in the field. The programme is being funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
Apart from this, donor agencies usually engage the services of international consultants to monitor and evaluate programmes of NGOs using their own proposals on the objectives and expected achievements of their activities.
The ultimate aim of such a monitoring mechanism is to ensure that funds made available commensurate with service delivery provided by NGOs in their respective operational areas.
Whatever the case may be, issues of accountability are very critical to accelerated development and enhancing the quality of life of people particularly in the rural communities.
MOVE TO SPLIT NR ...Experts to assess process of demarcation — Veep (LEAD STORY)
THE largest region in the country, the Northern Region, which stretches over a third of Ghana’s land mass, is to be split into two to enhance its administration and development.
The Vice-President, Mr John Dramani Mahama, said a team of experts was to critically assess the process of demarcation and hold consultations with the various stakeholders, after which the 70,383 square kilometres of land would have two regional capitals to accelerate its development.
The vast region, which stretches from the country’s eastern corridor to its western corridor, currently has 18 districts and four paramount chiefs, namely, the Yaa Naa in Yendi, the Yagbon Wura in Damango, the Bimbila Naa in Bimbila and the Nayiri in Nalerigu.
Its vastness has been cited as one of the major barriers to effective administration and conflict resolution in the area.
Addressing the 33rd national congress of the Gonjaland Youth Association (GYA) at Bole on Sunday, the Vice- President, himself a Gonja, entreated the people of Gonjaland not to view the need for another region as being only in the interest of Gonjas but as a gesture that would ultimately benefit the entire people of the Northern Region.
“I see the need to split the region into two, as it will make it easier to manage and make more resources available to the two regions. But let us not pursue it as a demand for Gonjaland but as a request for all northerners," he reiterated.
Mr Mahama appealed to Gonjas to “maintain a unity of purpose with one common voice” in order to promote peace and stability for the accelerated development of the area.
He also announced plans by the government to create a separate development board for the shea nut industry, adding that a first-class shea nut processing plant would be established at Buipe.
He said the government was seriously considering the rehabilitation of the Fufulso-Damongo-Sawla road, adding that it was seeking funding for the project to begin.
Mr Mahama said the need to rehabilitate the road had become necessary in view of the Savanna Accelerated Development Authority and the Northern Development Initiative.
The National President of the GYA, Alhaji Ahmed Ewura, said the association had made significant strides over the past seven years, including its registration at the Registrar-General’s Department.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina, urged the executives of the association to encourage the youth to go into productive ventures to improve their lot.
The Bolewura, Amankwa Gbeadese, mentioned the senior high school drop out rate among girls as a result of teenage pregnancy and the need for more health personnel as some of the challenges facing the area.
The GYA congress, which was on the theme, “Challenges of the Gonjaland Youth Association at 33”, assessed the performance of the association, its challenges and the way forward.
It was attended by traditional rulers, politicians and citizens of the area resident home and abroad who discussed issues including poor health, low school enrolment among girls and how best to harness the natural resources in the area for development.
A five-member executive was elected into office, with Mr Bakari Sadik Nyari as President.
The Vice-President was later presented with a citation for his contribution to the development of the area.
The Vice-President, Mr John Dramani Mahama, said a team of experts was to critically assess the process of demarcation and hold consultations with the various stakeholders, after which the 70,383 square kilometres of land would have two regional capitals to accelerate its development.
The vast region, which stretches from the country’s eastern corridor to its western corridor, currently has 18 districts and four paramount chiefs, namely, the Yaa Naa in Yendi, the Yagbon Wura in Damango, the Bimbila Naa in Bimbila and the Nayiri in Nalerigu.
Its vastness has been cited as one of the major barriers to effective administration and conflict resolution in the area.
Addressing the 33rd national congress of the Gonjaland Youth Association (GYA) at Bole on Sunday, the Vice- President, himself a Gonja, entreated the people of Gonjaland not to view the need for another region as being only in the interest of Gonjas but as a gesture that would ultimately benefit the entire people of the Northern Region.
“I see the need to split the region into two, as it will make it easier to manage and make more resources available to the two regions. But let us not pursue it as a demand for Gonjaland but as a request for all northerners," he reiterated.
Mr Mahama appealed to Gonjas to “maintain a unity of purpose with one common voice” in order to promote peace and stability for the accelerated development of the area.
He also announced plans by the government to create a separate development board for the shea nut industry, adding that a first-class shea nut processing plant would be established at Buipe.
He said the government was seriously considering the rehabilitation of the Fufulso-Damongo-Sawla road, adding that it was seeking funding for the project to begin.
Mr Mahama said the need to rehabilitate the road had become necessary in view of the Savanna Accelerated Development Authority and the Northern Development Initiative.
The National President of the GYA, Alhaji Ahmed Ewura, said the association had made significant strides over the past seven years, including its registration at the Registrar-General’s Department.
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Nayina, urged the executives of the association to encourage the youth to go into productive ventures to improve their lot.
The Bolewura, Amankwa Gbeadese, mentioned the senior high school drop out rate among girls as a result of teenage pregnancy and the need for more health personnel as some of the challenges facing the area.
The GYA congress, which was on the theme, “Challenges of the Gonjaland Youth Association at 33”, assessed the performance of the association, its challenges and the way forward.
It was attended by traditional rulers, politicians and citizens of the area resident home and abroad who discussed issues including poor health, low school enrolment among girls and how best to harness the natural resources in the area for development.
A five-member executive was elected into office, with Mr Bakari Sadik Nyari as President.
The Vice-President was later presented with a citation for his contribution to the development of the area.
Monday, April 13, 2009
GUINEA WORM PROJECT LAUNCHED AT NYEKO (PAGE 26)
A PILOT scheme aimed at eradicating guinea worm at Nyeko, a farming community in the Savelugu-Nanton District in the Northern Region, has been launched at Savelugu.
As part of the scheme, 40 “Life Straw” family water filtering equipment valued at approximately $1,200 have been provided for the community, including the Savelugu Experimental School.
The aim of the gesture is to ensure that the people get access to potable water in order to prevent the contracting of water-borne diseases.
The facilities were provided by Vestergaard Frandsen, an Accra-based business entity with support from the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) and the Tuma-Kavi Development Organisation, both non-governmental organisations based in the Northern Region.
The scheme was inaugurated during the celebration of this year’s World Water Day at Savelugu on the theme: “Shared water, shared opportunities”.
The Country Director of the CCFC, Mrs Sanatu Nantogma, in a speech read on her behalf, said her outfit was promoting the use of the “Life Straw” filtering equipment and rain water harvesting as a strategy to augment existing water supply, as well as meet the demands for providing potable water in guinea worm-endemic area.
“The availability of safe and reliable water supply plays a significant role in the ability of people to care for their families and earn a living; adequate and proactive water resources management is essential for a country’s growth,“ she observed.
According to her, the CCFC focused on water, sanitation and hygiene as part of its programmes with the aim of mitigating the scarcity of water in the future.
The Programme Manager of the CCFC, Mr Paul Twene, stated that the scheme would be expanded to cover 25 communities in the future.
The Sponsorship Co-ordinator of Tuma-Kavi Development Programme, Mr Abukar Ayuba, who demonstrated the use of the equipment to pupils of the Savelugu Experimental School, said a child-to-child group had been inaugurated at the school to help educate the pupils on sanitation issues.
A junior high school (JHS) Three pupil of the school, Master Muftawu Tanko, stated that the campaign on the use of the equipment would help enlighten his colleagues on the harmful effects of drinking dirty water.
He, therefore, appealed to the CCFC to organise more of such programmes for pupils in the area.
As part of the scheme, 40 “Life Straw” family water filtering equipment valued at approximately $1,200 have been provided for the community, including the Savelugu Experimental School.
The aim of the gesture is to ensure that the people get access to potable water in order to prevent the contracting of water-borne diseases.
The facilities were provided by Vestergaard Frandsen, an Accra-based business entity with support from the Christian Children’s Fund of Canada (CCFC) and the Tuma-Kavi Development Organisation, both non-governmental organisations based in the Northern Region.
The scheme was inaugurated during the celebration of this year’s World Water Day at Savelugu on the theme: “Shared water, shared opportunities”.
The Country Director of the CCFC, Mrs Sanatu Nantogma, in a speech read on her behalf, said her outfit was promoting the use of the “Life Straw” filtering equipment and rain water harvesting as a strategy to augment existing water supply, as well as meet the demands for providing potable water in guinea worm-endemic area.
“The availability of safe and reliable water supply plays a significant role in the ability of people to care for their families and earn a living; adequate and proactive water resources management is essential for a country’s growth,“ she observed.
According to her, the CCFC focused on water, sanitation and hygiene as part of its programmes with the aim of mitigating the scarcity of water in the future.
The Programme Manager of the CCFC, Mr Paul Twene, stated that the scheme would be expanded to cover 25 communities in the future.
The Sponsorship Co-ordinator of Tuma-Kavi Development Programme, Mr Abukar Ayuba, who demonstrated the use of the equipment to pupils of the Savelugu Experimental School, said a child-to-child group had been inaugurated at the school to help educate the pupils on sanitation issues.
A junior high school (JHS) Three pupil of the school, Master Muftawu Tanko, stated that the campaign on the use of the equipment would help enlighten his colleagues on the harmful effects of drinking dirty water.
He, therefore, appealed to the CCFC to organise more of such programmes for pupils in the area.
SAVANNA CEMENT TO START PRODUCTION NEXT YEAR (BACK PAGE)
THE Savanna Cement Company Limited (SAVACEM), located at Buipe in the Central Gonja District in the Northern Region, is to begin the production of cement by June, next year.
The $40-million project would produce 20,000 bags of cement daily when completed.
The General Manager of SAVACEM, Mr Srinivasa Rao, made this known to newsmen at Buipe, when he conducted the Northern Regional Minister, Mr Steven Sumani Nayina, round the site.
Currently, the construction of the building to house the equipment is ongoing, while a number of accommodation units, 10-unit bedroom houses for both senior and junior staff of the company, as well as a VIP guest house, have been completed.
The project, being funded by SAVACEM and the Diamond Cement Factory at Aflao in the Volta Region, began in January, this year, and would employ 500 workers when the factory begins production.
Mr Rao said additionally, SAVACEM had set aside $3 million for the installation of a sub-station to supply seven megawatts of power to enable the factory to operate efficiently.
He added that the Volta River Authority (VRA) was facilitating the provision of the facility, since the current power supply in the area could not support the production.
Mr Rao explained that the sub-station would ultimately create a congenial atmosphere for other companies to invest in the area.
He said the necessary machinery, such as mining equipment, cement, raw and coal mills, grate coolers, crushers and compressors were in place for production upon the completion of the project.
According to the manager, the factory would make use of 19.52 million tonnes of limestone out of the total reserves of 34 million tonnes as raw materials for cement production.
Mr Nayina, for his part, said he was “highly impressed” about the progress of work so far and observed that when the project was completed, it would create employment opportunities and enhance income levels for the local people.
“I must admit that this would be the very first viable factory in the Northern Region; I must, therefore, warn residents against any acts of lawlessness that would thwart the efforts of investors and scare them away,” he stressed.
The $40-million project would produce 20,000 bags of cement daily when completed.
The General Manager of SAVACEM, Mr Srinivasa Rao, made this known to newsmen at Buipe, when he conducted the Northern Regional Minister, Mr Steven Sumani Nayina, round the site.
Currently, the construction of the building to house the equipment is ongoing, while a number of accommodation units, 10-unit bedroom houses for both senior and junior staff of the company, as well as a VIP guest house, have been completed.
The project, being funded by SAVACEM and the Diamond Cement Factory at Aflao in the Volta Region, began in January, this year, and would employ 500 workers when the factory begins production.
Mr Rao said additionally, SAVACEM had set aside $3 million for the installation of a sub-station to supply seven megawatts of power to enable the factory to operate efficiently.
He added that the Volta River Authority (VRA) was facilitating the provision of the facility, since the current power supply in the area could not support the production.
Mr Rao explained that the sub-station would ultimately create a congenial atmosphere for other companies to invest in the area.
He said the necessary machinery, such as mining equipment, cement, raw and coal mills, grate coolers, crushers and compressors were in place for production upon the completion of the project.
According to the manager, the factory would make use of 19.52 million tonnes of limestone out of the total reserves of 34 million tonnes as raw materials for cement production.
Mr Nayina, for his part, said he was “highly impressed” about the progress of work so far and observed that when the project was completed, it would create employment opportunities and enhance income levels for the local people.
“I must admit that this would be the very first viable factory in the Northern Region; I must, therefore, warn residents against any acts of lawlessness that would thwart the efforts of investors and scare them away,” he stressed.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
NORTHERN REGIONAL MINISTER CALLS ON YAGBONWURA (PAGE 47)
THE Northern Regional Minister, Mr Steven Nayina, has entreated the Overlord of Gonjaland, Yagbonwura Abudu Bawa Doshie, to spearhead efforts at resolving all the protracted chieftaincy disputes in the area, particularly between the people of Buipe and Kusawgu in the Central Gonja District.
He noted that the traditions and customs of the area should not be swept under the carpet to the detriment of peace, stability and the accelerated development of the area.
The minister stated this at Damongo in the West Gonja District when he paid a courtesy call on the Yagbonwura at his palace.
The visit was to interact with both the chief and his elders, as well as to introduce himself to them.
According to him, the government was prepared to work in “close consonance with chiefs” and prayed the chiefs and elders in the region to help settle outstanding chieftaincy disputes in the area.
Mr Nayina further intimated that he was not prepared to encourage divisions and ethnocentrism in the region; “in fact I don’t want to encourage impostors”.
He reiterated his resolve and the government’s determination to improve upon agriculture to enhance food security in the region.
He expressed concern about the poor road network in the region and said the government was prepared to improve on the situation.
Mr Nayina said human resource development was a top priority and encouraged parents to send their children to school.
Yagbonwura Bawa Doshie called on the government to consider creating a separate region for the area to speed up its development.
“We wish Damongo to be made a regional capital and we want government to take our request very seriously,” the Yagbonwura further stressed.
The chief also called for urgent steps to rehabilitate the Fufulso-Sawla-Damongo road.
The Yagbonwura observed that the chieftaincy problems were as a result of the refusal of the youth to adhere to the traditions and customs of the Gonjaland.
He noted that the traditions and customs of the area should not be swept under the carpet to the detriment of peace, stability and the accelerated development of the area.
The minister stated this at Damongo in the West Gonja District when he paid a courtesy call on the Yagbonwura at his palace.
The visit was to interact with both the chief and his elders, as well as to introduce himself to them.
According to him, the government was prepared to work in “close consonance with chiefs” and prayed the chiefs and elders in the region to help settle outstanding chieftaincy disputes in the area.
Mr Nayina further intimated that he was not prepared to encourage divisions and ethnocentrism in the region; “in fact I don’t want to encourage impostors”.
He reiterated his resolve and the government’s determination to improve upon agriculture to enhance food security in the region.
He expressed concern about the poor road network in the region and said the government was prepared to improve on the situation.
Mr Nayina said human resource development was a top priority and encouraged parents to send their children to school.
Yagbonwura Bawa Doshie called on the government to consider creating a separate region for the area to speed up its development.
“We wish Damongo to be made a regional capital and we want government to take our request very seriously,” the Yagbonwura further stressed.
The chief also called for urgent steps to rehabilitate the Fufulso-Sawla-Damongo road.
The Yagbonwura observed that the chieftaincy problems were as a result of the refusal of the youth to adhere to the traditions and customs of the Gonjaland.
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