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SNV GHANA PAYS COURTESY CALL ON CHIEF DIRECTOR OF UPPER WEST REGIONAL COORDINATING COUNCIL

On July 22, 2025, the Country Director of SNV Netherlands Development Organization, Madam Barbara White Nkoala, led a high-powered delegation to pay a courtesy call on the Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), Hajia Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray. The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration for inclusive and sustainable development in the region, particularly in the sectors of agriculture and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).

Madam Nkoala expressed profound appreciation for the RCC’s continued support in advancing SNV’s flagship projects, notably the Healthy Future for All (HF4A), Climate Adaptation, and Sustainable Sorghum initiatives. She highlighted significant outcomes recorded under these interventions in the Nandom and Lambussie Districts, including the provision of solar-powered water systems, improved health infrastructure, and gender-sensitive sanitation facilities in schools. These efforts have positively impacted over 22,000 beneficiaries, substantially enhancing access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

The Chief Director, Hajia Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray, commended SNV for its remarkable achievements in promoting public health and dignity, especially among women and children. She applauded the organization’s role in reducing open defecation and improving sanitation practices, particularly in the Lambussie and Nandom areas. She further encouraged SNV to consider scaling up its impactful interventions to other underserved districts across the Upper West Region.

Reaffirming the RCC’s readiness to facilitate broader stakeholder engagement, the Chief Director emphasized the importance of coordinated action to ensure sustainability and inclusive growth. “The Regional Coordinating Council remains a committed partner in driving development that reaches the most vulnerable,” she noted, adding that strategic partnerships are vital to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In response, Madam Nkoala reaffirmed SNV’s commitment to embedding sustainable hygiene practices within local communities while working collaboratively with the RCC to support climate resilience, sustainable land use, and livelihoods enhancement.

The visit concluded with a mutual pledge to strengthen cooperation and jointly pursue impactful, people-centered development that uplifts smallholder farmers, youth, women, and marginalized groups across the region.

1st July 2025

In a poignant and celebratory event, Mr. Williams Ayaaba Akongbabre, a distinguished community development advocate, paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Lawyer Charles Lwanga Pouzuing, Esq., the Upper West Regional Minister. During this visit, Mr. Akongbabre dedicated his esteemed 2025 JOYNEWS Impact Makers Award to the citizens of the Upper West Region, conveying his appreciation through the regional minister. This gesture not only marked a personal honor for Mr. Akongbabre but also underscored the invaluable support of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in his development initiatives across the Upper West Region and beyond.

Mr. Akongbabre commenced his address by expressing profound gratitude to the RCC, acknowledging it as an indispensable ally throughout his journey since his arrival in the Upper West Region. “This award does not belong to me alone; it is a testament to our collective efforts,” he declared, highlighting the collaborative foundation of his community projects.

In a heartfelt moment, Mr. Akongbabre honored the memory of his late secretary, Madam Rashida Halitu Yussif, who passed away recently. A minute of silence was observed in her honor, reflecting her significant role as a secretary at Relcaso Ghana. Mr. Akongbabre described Rashida as not only a colleague but a friend and sister, whose contributions were pivotal to the success of his numerous initiatives. He articulated the profound loss felt by both himself and the entire Relcaso Ghana family, expressing hope for a reunion in the afterlife.

Reflecting on his initial interaction with the RCC in 2017 concerning his community initiatives, Mr. Akongbabre reiterated the RCC’s essential role in driving his impactful interventions. “The RCC has been instrumental in my efforts; it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge their contributions while accepting this award,” he stated.

Mr. Akongbabre then elaborated on the diverse projects undertaken by his community-based NGO, Relcaso Ghana, which spans critical sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and agroforestry. Among the projects highlighted was the Education Quality Assurance Project (EQAP), which has trained over 7,000 educators and significantly enhanced learning outcomes for thousands of students across various regions in Ghana. Furthermore, his Scholarship Scheme for Needy Children has provided educational assistance to over 30 vulnerable children, including orphans affected by tragic events in Wa.

His health-centered initiatives, particularly the Sick and Neglected Poor People (SNePP) project, have delivered lifesaving healthcare to underserved children, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to uplift marginalized communities. Additionally, the Innovative Scheme for Small-Scale Farmers and Agroforestry (ISSSFAF) project exemplifies his vision to improve economic outcomes for farmers while bolstering food security in the Sissala East District of the Upper West Region.

Mr. Akongbabre conveyed his pride in the tangible impacts of his projects, as evidenced by the positive feedback received from beneficiaries and education stakeholders, including audio-visual testimonials shared with JOYNEWS. He expressed his aspirations for future initiatives, which include establishing a boarding facility at Willi-Gif to extend the SSNeC scholarship to orphans from remote communities, introducing tradable skills training for youth (TRaSTY), and launching the Ghana Creative Arts Teachers Empowerment Program (G-CaTEP). “I believe these endeavours will significantly contribute to Ghana’s industrialization efforts,” he remarked.

In response, Minister Pouzuing congratulated Mr. Akongbabre for his well-deserved recognition, calling it a notable achievement for the Upper West Region. He commended Akongbabre’s transformative projects, acknowledging their profound impact on local communities. “Your initiatives have changed lives, and the RCC is prepared to support your future endeavors,” he affirmed, underscoring the collaborative spirit essential in community development.

The event concluded with a vibrant exchange among the Minister, RCC officials, Mr. Akongbabre, and his team, including both regular and scholarship beneficiaries, who shared refreshments and joyful interactions, demonstrating the community spirit fostered by Mr. Akongbabre’s work.

This act of gratitude and recognition not only celebrated Mr. Akongbabre’s accomplishments but also served as an inspiring example to others in the region, illustrating the power of dedication, resilience, and collective action in achieving meaningful change.

As the Upper West Region continues to experience transformative developments through the efforts of individuals like Mr. Williams Ayaaba Akongbabre, the call for others to engage in community development endeavors resounds clearly. Together, they are forging a path toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.

In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting sustainable resource management, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Alhaji Yussif Sulemana, has inaugurated an 18-member Lands and Natural Resources Board. This board is charged with the critical responsibility of overseeing the management and protection of natural resources in the Upper West Region, reflecting the government’s renewed commitment to addressing environmental challenges and fostering responsible land use practices.

During the Inaugural Ceremony, Hon. Sulemana articulated the board’s vital role in resolving land disputes, safeguarding the region’s natural wealth, and mitigating environmental degradation resulting from human activities. He underscored that the board’s mandate is in direct alignment with President John Dramani Mahama’s comprehensive national agenda aimed at combating illegal mining and promoting sustainable land utilization.

“I expect the board to act decisively on land disputes and to help establish a framework that encourages responsible stewardship of our resources,” declared Hon. Sulemana, emphasizing the need for members to prioritize the collective interests of the region. He called upon the board to create an environment conducive to investment while firmly discouraging the exploitation and abuse of the region’s land and natural resources.

The event also featured insightful remarks from Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq., the Upper West Regional Minister, who highlighted the necessity of fostering a strong collaboration between the newly established board and traditional authorities. He noted that such partnerships are essential for effective and sustainable land management. Minister Puozuing pledged the unwavering support of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) to provide the necessary logistics and resources to facilitate the board’s operations.

In his address, Hon. Puozuing stressed the importance of preserving land for future generations, reiterating the government’s commitment to empowering local bodies to effectively lead these critical efforts.

As the newly inaugurated board embarks on its significant mission, the people of the Upper West Region look forward to a more sustainable and equitable approach to managing their natural resources, ensuring a prosperous and thriving environment for generations to come.

Upper West Region, Ghana – Teen Talk Ghana, spearheaded by their Executive Director, Linat Osman Kuudaribuo, has made significant strides towards fostering peace and resilience in the Upper West Region through a courtesy visit to the Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray. This meeting marks an important step in the organization’s initiative titled “Building Resilient Communities Against Violent Extremism in the Upper West Region.”

Upon their arrival, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Chief Director Koray, who represented the Honorable Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq., the Upper West Regional Minister. The purpose of their visit was to formally present their groundbreaking project aimed at empowering 120 youth leaders across six districts, particularly focusing on young women and Fulbe youth. By engaging these leaders through capacity-building initiatives, training sessions, and community sensitization forums, Teen Talk Ghana aims to cultivate mediators and peace ambassadors who will spearhead efforts to address the pressing issues of violent extremism in the region.

This initiative directly responds to several ongoing challenges faced by the region, including economic hardships, inadequate service delivery, and marginalization, which contribute to susceptibility to radicalization. By fostering resilience and promoting social cohesion, the project aims to strengthen grassroots efforts in preventing violent extremism and enhance overall community stability.

During the engagement, Chief Director Koray underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the issue of violent extremism, highlighting various initiatives such as the Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project that seek to actively engage and empower young people. She expressed her gratitude towards Teen Talk Ghana for their proactive measures that complement ongoing government efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

Looking ahead, the Regional Coordinating Council plans to host a scoping Workshop on security with delegates from Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mali to participate. This exemplifies the collaborative efforts being undertaken to address regional security challenges.

In her address, Miss Koray emphasized the need for collaboration among Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) engaged in counter-extremist initiatives. She pointed out that effective collaboration can maximize community outreach, ensuring that resources are used effectively and that there is no duplication of efforts in combating violent extremism.

Key challenges within the community were also highlighted, including the concerning rise of “get-rich-quick” mentalities and substance abuse among the youth. Miss Koray suggested that these issues be integrated into the project’s training modules to ensure that the youth are well-equipped to navigate these societal challenges.

The discussions also saw valuable contributions from representatives of Teen Talk Ghana. Mr. James praised the initiative’s inclusive approach, particularly its focus on the Fulbe community, emphasizing the importance of successful reintegration efforts. He cautioned that poorly managed reintegration could exacerbate tensions and undermine the ongoing peace-building initiatives.

Mr. Simon added that maintaining open communication with the Chief Director regarding any emerging security issues is essential as the organization engages with communities. He reiterated the significance of collaboration and pooled resources in achieving the project’s objectives.

This important meeting represents a significant milestone in the fight against violent extremism in the Upper West Region, as Teen Talk Ghana works closely with regional authorities to ensure that their initiatives not only align with local priorities but also contribute effectively to peace and security efforts. As stakeholders come together in this essential mission, the hope for a more resilient community grows stronger, paving the way for sustainable development and social harmony.

Teen Talk Ghana is committed to playing its part in creating a peaceful and prosperous future for all citizens in the Upper West Region.

Upper West Region, Ghana – May 2, 2025 – In an inspiring and motivational address, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq., the Upper West Regional Minister, urged nine newly sworn-in Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to embrace transformative leadership that prioritizes the needs of the community. The event, held on Friday, marked a significant milestone as the MMDCEs took on their critical roles amid various challenges facing the Assemblies.

Minister Puozuing emphasized the importance of being accessible leaders who reside within their districts to understand the real challenges faced by their constituents. “Your position is not a ceremonial title. It is a full-time, round-the-clock commitment to service,” he declared, stressing that MMDCEs must live among the people they serve and avoid the pitfalls of partisanship and patronage.

Highlighting the pressing issues confronting the District Assemblies, the Minister pointed to low citizen participation, inadequate internally generated funds, and weak institutional coordination, urging the MMDCEs to engage with the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936) as a guiding framework for their work. “The Assembly is not yours to control; it is a public institution guided by law,” he reminded them, underscoring their roles as representatives of the President and their dual political and administrative authority.

“The performance of your functions must reflect fidelity to the national interest and the aspirations of the ordinary Ghanaian,” the Minister added, calling for a collective commitment to ensure that democracy translates into tangible development for every citizen.

Minister Puozuing’s calls to action resonated with the audience, as he urged the MMDCEs to be bold, wise, and fair in their leadership, striving to deliver the dividends of democracy to their communities. He encouraged them to foster trust, integrity, and unity within their districts while collaborating effectively with local departments and opinion leaders.

Echoing the sentiments of the Regional Minister, Naa Puowele Karbo III, the President of the Upper Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of the Lawra Traditional Area, emphasized the importance of the Minister’s message. He suggested that copies of the speech be distributed to the MMDCEs for their continued reference and study, reinforcing the core areas of their responsibilities.

Naa Puowele congratulated the newly sworn-in leaders and urged them to work closely with key stakeholders, particularly within traditional structures, to ensure meaningful development for their communities.

As the MMDCEs embark on this significant journey, the Upper West Regional Minister’s clarion call for transformative leadership and a commitment to service presents an optimistic outlook for the region’s development. With a focus on inclusivity and accountability, the future of local governance in the Upper West Region holds promise for all its citizens.

Wa, Upper West Region – May 1, 2025 – Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, the Upper West Regional Minister, has called upon workers in the region to bolster productivity and embrace the government’s ambitious 24-hour economy policy. Speaking at the 2025 May Day celebration in Wa, he described this initiative as a transformative step toward alleviating Ghana’s unemployment crisis and fostering inclusive economic growth.

In his address to a crowd of enthusiastic workers, Hon. Puozuing applauded the vital role that labor plays in national development. “A dedicated and loyal workforce is the foundation for business success,” he stated, affirming the government’s commitment to collaborating with organized labor to enhance working conditions and economic outcomes in the region.

The Minister expressed gratitude for the early endorsement of the 24-hour economy initiative by labor unions but cautioned that its implementation must be approached responsibly to prevent potential worker exploitation. He emphasized the importance of creating a balanced environment that promotes both economic growth and workers’ rights.

Highlighting the government’s focus on youth empowerment, Hon. Puozuing showcased several initiatives aimed at boosting employment and improving livelihoods in the region. Programs such as the Adwumawura entrepreneurship scheme, various apprenticeship initiatives, and the Feed Ghana initiative were presented as crucial interventions designed to support the youth.

However, the keynote address delivered by Godwin Gariba, Regional Secretary of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), shifted the focus to the urgent challenges facing Ghanaian workers. Brother Gariba called for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s wage and pension systems, highlighting the stark realities many workers endure.

“Our minimum wage of GH¢19 a day is merely $1.20 for eight hours of work,” Brother Gariba lamented, noting that a significant portion of the workforce earns even less. He criticized the current minimum single under the single-spine salary structure, which stands at GH¢741 or $47 a month, describing it as woefully inadequate and far below the international poverty line.

Gariba further decried the widening income gap between Article 71 officeholders and ordinary public servants, labeling the disparities as unjustifiable. “It is a scandal that some CEOs in the public sector earn rent allowances three times higher than the salaries of the highest-paid single-spine workers,” he asserted.

The TUC Secretary advocated for the introduction of a living wage that accurately reflects the real cost of living, stressing that “workers must live in dignity and security if they are to contribute meaningfully to productivity.” He also raised alarms regarding the broken pension system, revealing that some retirees receive less than GH¢500 per month, while others receive nearly GH¢200,000.

“This is grossly unfair,” Gariba stated, calling for pension reunification and fair contributions from all income-earning workers. He voiced concerns over government delays in pension contributions and the need for stronger regulation of second-tier pension schemes, stressing that “SSNIT funds belong to workers” and demanding reforms including majority worker representation on the SSNIT board.

Gariba condemned recent “improper mass terminations” in the public sector, including layoffs at the Ghana Maritime Authority, and reiterated organized labor’s opposition to the proposed privatization of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), warning it could jeopardize access and affordability for Ghanaians.

Despite these challenges, Gariba praised the government’s recent decision not to renew the lease of Aboso Goldfields Limited, calling it a “bold step” toward reclaiming Ghana’s mining wealth for its citizens.

In a rallying conclusion, Gariba urged all stakeholders—government, employers, and labor to collaborate in building a Ghana where every worker earns a decent wage, lives a dignified life, and looks to the future with hope.

The May Day celebration, marked by a spirit of unity and determination, served as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices and the need for collaboration in building a stronger, more equitable economy for all Ghanaian.

In a significant gesture of solidarity and support, the leadership of the Ghana Blind Union in the Upper West Region recently paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, to discuss critical issues affecting persons with visual impairments in the region.

During the meeting, the Union highlighted several pressing concerns, including the lack of educational resources at NJA College of Education, inadequate road infrastructure and learning materials at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind, and the need for improved mobility support for visually impaired students within the school premise.

Additionally, the Union raised the issue of vocational education upgrade, government engagement and visibility at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind, the proper utilization of the Disability Common Fund, and the importance of inclusive tertiary education and employment opportunities for persons with visual impairments.

In response to these challenges, the Honourable Minister welcomed the Union’s delegation and expressed his commitment to addressing the issues raised. He acknowledged the importance of collaboration and reiterated the government’s dedication to improving the lives of persons with disabilities in the region.

Specifically, the Minister assured proactive steps towards enhancing educational resources at NJA College of Education, resolving road infrastructure challenges at the Wa Methodist School for the Blind, and facilitating the construction of a modern Regional Disability Resource Centre to support persons with disabilities.

Furthermore, the Minister emphasized the government’s inclusion policy and pledged to advocate for the active participation of persons with visual impairments in government programmes and public sector employment opportunities. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to make the University for Business and Integrated Development Studies (UBIDS) more inclusive and supportive of visually impaired students.

Overall, the Minister’s reassurances and commitment to addressing the concerns of persons with visual impairments in the Upper West Region reflect a positive step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities in the region.

The leadership of School for Life Ghana, an education-focused non-governmental organization, recently paid a courtesy call on the Honorable Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq. The meeting, held at the Minister’s office, was led by the Project Manager, Mr. Zulyaden Amadu, and the Advocacy and Policy Influencing Officer, Mr. Mohammed Mutaru Alhassan. The purpose of the visit was to congratulate the Minister on his appointment and to introduce him to the organization’s work in the region, particularly the Wa West District, where they have a project running.

During the meeting, the Project Manager highlighted the organization’s efforts to complement the government’s delivery of quality basic education in the region through the Citizens-Led Actions for Educational Accountability and Responsiveness (CLEAR) Project. This project aims to promote community involvement and participation in creating an enabling environment for quality education delivery in the district. As a result, many communities have become more engaged and have started providing local solutions to education challenges whiles demanding for accountability and transparency from duty bearers in their districts.

The Project Manager also called on Minister to consider reviving the Regional Education Performance Review session, which is a platform for the region to appraise and assess progress of education delivery against the performance set targets. He touched on ensuring that the Municipal/District Education Oversight Committees become more functional and effective, giving guidance to education delivery at the districts level.

The Minister expressed his appreciation for the visit and encouraged the organization to continue its efforts in building the capacities of the communities to be in the forefront of education development in their communities. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between NGOs, communities, and the government in improving education outcomes in the region. He therefore committed to ensure that the regional education performance review meeting comes alive works also working with the local assemblies to reactive the M/DEOCs.

In attendance at the meeting were representatives from the Citizens Networks, local advocacy groups mobilized by the organization. The National Convenor, Mr. Christopher Braimah, highlighted several challenges in the region, including inadequate school infrastructure, furniture deficits, irregular school feeding programs, drug abuse, and a lack of teaching and learning resources. He called on the Minister to address these issues and assured him of the Citizens Networks’ willingness to collaborate with the RCC to make positive changes.

The Minister and the School for Life Ghana leadership concluded the meeting on a positive note, expressing their commitment to working together to improve education outcomes in the region.

In a show of respect and tradition, Organised Labour in the Upper West Region recently paid a courtesy call on the newly appointed Regional Minister, Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq. The visit, which took place on Thursday, 3rd April, 2025, at the Minister’s office, aimed to welcome and congratulate him on his new role.

Led by the Regional Secretary of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Brother Godwin Gariba, the delegation conveyed their warm wishes to the Minister and officially informed him of the upcoming May Day Celebration. During the visit, the Minister expressed his gratitude for the gesture, emphasizing his commitment to engaging in constructive dialogue with Organised Labour and maintaining an open-door policy.

In his address, the Minister highlighted the government’s focus on improving agriculture and healthcare services in the region. He also reiterated the President’s dedication to completing ongoing projects, such as the Agenda 111 initiatives, rather than embarking on new ones. Additionally, he mentioned plans to enhance the export of Ghanaian health professionals to generate foreign exchange.

Addressing misconceptions about his absence from the final Ramadan Fast prayer, the Minister clarified that he was out of town during that period and urged individuals to seek clarification before jumping to conclusions. He also emphasized the government’s prioritization of road infrastructure, including the dualization of the Kumasi-Tachiman-Bole-Hamile road and the use of equipment to improve the Wa-Tumu-Bolgatanga route.

Brother Alhaji Nuhu, the Dean of the Industrial Relations Officers (IROs), commended the Minister for his commitment to addressing the region’s challenges, particularly in the road sector. He expressed appreciation for the Minister’s proactive approach and offered prayers for his successful tenure.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the delegation presented two copies of TUC’s Workers’ Manifesto to the Minister as a token of goodwill. The gathering ended on a positive note, with the group capturing memorable moments through photographs.

The visit underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and Organised Labour in advancing the welfare of workers and promoting development in the region. With a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, both parties affirmed their commitment to working together towards a more prosperous and inclusive Upper West Region.