All posts by : uwrcc

Date: 16th February 2025
1.0 INTRODUCTION
In response to the ongoing meningitis outbreak in the Upper West Region of Ghana,
the Speaker of Parliament, Right Honourable Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin,
donated meningitis drugs worth GH¢300,000 to support the region’s healthcare
response. The donation, made on 16th February 2025 at the Regional Medical Stores,
was a crucial intervention to help curb the escalating health crisis.
2.0 RECEPTION OFDONATION
The Upper West Regional Director of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Damien
Punguyire, received the donation and expressed profound gratitude for the timely
intervention. He provided an update on the outbreak, reporting:
 129suspected cases
 22confirmed cases
 16recorded deaths
 29critically ill patients
Dr. Punguyire emphasized the urgent need for support and detailed ongoing measures
such as public education campaigns, early reporting mechanisms, and preventive
strategies including avoiding overcrowding, wearing face masks, social distancing,
and seeking prompt medical attention.
3.0 SUPPORT FROMOTHERSTAKEHOLDERS
In addition to the Speaker’s donation, the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon.
Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, acknowledged the generous support received from the
National Lottery Authority, amounting to GH¢100,000. He advocated for the
establishment of an emergency response fund to handle future health crises effectively.
Furthermore, Members of Parliament from the Upper West Region pledged a
collective donation of GH¢10,000 to bolster the health sector’s response efforts. Hon.
Bede Anwataazumo Ziedeng, representing the Parliamentary caucus, recalled a
similar outbreak in 1997 and stressed the importance of unity and collaborative efforts
in tackling health emergencies.
4.0 REMARKSBYTHESPEAKEROFPARLIAMENT
Right Honourable Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin expressed his satisfaction in
contributing to the critical healthcare initiative. He officially handed over the essential
meningitis drugs to the Regional Minister for onward distribution and emphasized the
importance of health advocacy, community education, and collective action in
preventing the further spread of the disease.
5.0DETAILSOFDONATEDMEDICALSUPPLIES
TheSpeaker’s donation included the followingessentialmedications andmedical
supplies:
 CeftriaxoneInjection
 ReceptionInjection
 Ringer’sLactateInjection
 SpinalNeedles
 NormalSaline
 Dexamethasone
TheUpperWestRegionalDirectorofHealth,Dr.Punguyire,assuredallstakeholders
that the donated drugswould be distributed efficiently andused solely for their
intendedpurposes

13^th February,2025

On the evening of February 12, 2025, a startling incident unfolded at the Wa Municipal Fire Station, as a Benz truck (GT 8045 C) inadvertently reversed into the premises, colliding with the fire tender (DPT No. FS 478) and causing damage to both the structure and the vehicle.

The impact resulted in damage to parts of the station’s structure and the fire tender’s front guard, as well as the tender’s rear lights. Thankfully, no casualties were reported, with officers from the Regional Headquarters and Municipal Fire Station managing to escape unharmed, having been gathered for a briefing ahead of a planned simulation exercise in the market.

Upon receiving a report from the Regional Fire Officer, ACFO II ISAAC FOFI OBOSU, the Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Pognaa Fati Issaka koray, sprang into action on behalf of the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq.

Arriving at the scene swiftly, Chief Director Pognaa Fati Issaka koray was briefed on the incident by the officers, expressing gratitude that no injuries were sustained. Recognizing the urgency of ensuring safety and operational continuity at the municipal fire station, she promptly instructed the Municipal Coordinating Director to initiate processes assessing the affected areas.

The Municipal Coordinating Director assured Chief Director Pognaa Fati Issaka koray of swift action and provided plans for the construction of a new and improved structure for the fire station. This proactive response reflects the dedication and efficiency of the leadership in addressing critical situations promptly.

Furthermore, Chief Director Pognaa Fati Issaka koray indicated that the incident will be communicated to the Regional Minister.

In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of all parties involved, as eloquently detailed by Simon T. Faayi (P.R.O – UWRCC), highlight the commitment of our leaders and emergency respondents in safeguarding the community’s welfare. Let us join in appreciation for the swift response and effective coordination that ensured the safety of all personnel involved in this unfortunate accident.

On the 12th of February, 2024, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, the newly appointed Regional Minister, had a meeting with Heads of the Decentralized Department and members of the Regional Security Council at the Regional Coordinating Council Conference Hall. The Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Pognaa Fati Issaka koray, took the opportunity to introduce the Regional Minister to the heads of Departments and agencies, including the Regional Security Council. She highlighted that the Regional Minister had just assumed office three days ago and had been actively engaging in meetings to familiarize himself with the region. She emphasized the importance of cooperation and support from all Heads to support the new Regional Minister.

Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq began his address by expressing his appreciation to Heads of Departments for the efforts and for the warm reception accorded him. He urged everyone to put the elections behind them and focus on their roles. He emphasized the need for inclusivity and open communication within the region, stating that his doors are always open to everyone. He urged against spreading gossip or rumors and emphasized the importance of punctuality and respect among workers. He stressed the need for collaboration to achieve the common goal of development in the Upper West Region.

The Regional Minister outlined his vision for the region, focusing on improving the road network, infrastructure, agriculture sector, and youth empowerment. He assured that roads would be worked on for easy movement, uncompleted projects would be completed, and new projects initiated. He also mentioned the establishment of farmers’ service centers and irrigation dams to support farming activities in the region. In terms of youth empowerment, he promised vocational training and support for the youth to enhance their skills and knowledge.

During the meeting, various concerns were raised by the heads of Decentralized Departments, and the Regional Minister assured them of his commitment to address those concerns. He encouraged some of them to submit their concerns in writing for better follow-up. He concluded by thanking everyone for their cooperation and expressed his readiness to work collaboratively with them towards the development of the Upper West Region.

11th February, 2025

The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq embarked on a courtesy call on the office of Catholic Bishop Most Rev. Francis Bomansaan on the 11th of February, 2025. In a show of respect and gratitude, the Minister expressed his sincere thanks for being appointed to his position by His Excellency John Dramani Mahama.

He indicated that, he felt it was important to pay a visit to the Catholic Bishop to seek his blessings and guidance. Accompanied by the Chief Director of the Upper Regional Coordinating Council, Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray, the Minister was warmly welcomed by the Bishop.

After his introduction to the Bishop by the Chief Director, the Minister emphasized the need for cooperation and collaboration in order to effectively develop the region. He mentioned that he himself was a product of St. Francis Xavier Minor Seminary School and understood the importance of education and community involvement in the development process.

The Catholic Bishop congratulated the Minister on his appointment and commended him for taking the time to visit him within the second day of his assumption of duty as Regional Minister. He offered prayers for the Minister, asking for strength and wisdom to lead the Upper West Region and Ghana as a whole towards progress and prosperity.

In closing, Bishop Most Rev. Francis Bomansaan thanked the Minister for his visit and reiterated his support and blessings for his leadership. The Minister left the office feeling encouraged and inspired by the warm reception and words of wisdom from the Bishop.

This visit serves as a testament to the importance of interfaith cooperation and partnership in achieving development goals. With the support of community leaders like Bishop Most Rev. Francis Bomansaan, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq is poised to make a positive impact in the Upper West Region and beyond.

On the 11th of February, 2025, the newly appointed Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of the Waala traditional council to seek his blessings and support as he assumes office. The Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Madam Pognaa Fati Issaka koray, formally introduced the Minister to the esteemed Overlord.

In his address, the Minister expressed his gratitude for the support he received from the Overlord during his nomination as Regional Minister. He highlighted his commitment to overcoming the challenges facing the Upper West Region, including issues of insecurity, poor road networks, agriculture, education, and infrastructure. The Overlord, in turn, congratulated the Minister on his appointment and urged him to work diligently to leave a lasting impact on the region.

During the meeting, the Overlord raised concerns about the security situation in the region and called for collective efforts to address the issue. The Minister assured the Overlord of his commitment to improving the state of agriculture in the region by establishing farmers’ service centers and irrigation facilities in key areas.

He also pledged to collaborate with neighboring regions to prioritize road infrastructure development.

In his closing remarks, the Minister reiterated his openness to input and collaboration from all stakeholders in the region, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration in achieving development goals. He thanked the Overlord for his support and vowed to work tirelessly for the betterment of the Upper West Region.

Overall, the meeting was marked by a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, setting a positive tone for future engagements between the Regional Minister and the traditional council. As the Minister embarks on his new role, it is clear that he is committed to serving the people of the Upper West Region with dedication and integrity.

On the 11th of February, 2025, the Upper West (U.W) Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, addressed the Electoral Commission Office for the Council of State election. With a warm smile and a welcoming demeanor, he addressed delegates, candidates, and the general public, expressing his joy at the turnout and wishing all the candidates the best of luck in their contest.

In his impassioned speech, the Regional Minister emphasized the significance of the Council of State election not just for selecting a representative, but for the overall development and progress of the entire Upper West Region (U.W.R). He eloquently stated that the success of the candidates would be a victory for the entirety of the Upper West Region, as they would bear the responsibility of representing and advocating for the needs and concerns of the people.

Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq underscored the importance of unity and peace in the region, highlighting that only through collective effort and cooperation could true development be achieved. He called upon all present to be each other’s keeper in the U.W.R, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration that would benefit all residents of the region.

The Minister’s words resonated deeply with the audience, as he urged for peace and understanding among all stakeholders, recognizing that these values were fundamental to progress and prosperity in the Upper West Region. His speech served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact that unity, cooperation, and peace could have on the region’s growth.

Date: 10th February, 2025

On this momentous day, the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq stepped into his new role with a resolute dedication to the progress and harmony of the region. Commencing at the break of dawn, precisely at 8:00 am, the Minister embarked on a series of impactful meetings, marking the inauguration of a new chapter in the administration of the Upper West Region.

Management Meeting (10:00 am): Delving into fruitful discussions with key management staff, the Minister set the stage for effective collaboration and teamwork, laying the groundwork for a unified approach to regional governance.

The Upper West Region was filled with anticipation and excitement as the newly appointed Regional Minister, Hon. Lawyer Puozuing Charles Lwanga, arrived in Wa after his swearing-in ceremony in Accra. Welcomed by a crowd of supporters including the Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Madam Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray, the Regional Security Council’s (RESEC), and members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hon. Lawyer Puozuing Charles Lwanga’s arrival was met with great enthusiasm.

Addressing the gathered crowd, the Regional Minister expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized the need for unity and collaboration to drive development in the region. He assured the public of his open-door policy, inviting input and contributions from all stakeholders to uplift the Upper West Region.

In a firm stand against rumors and gossip, Hon. Lawyer Puozuing Charles Lwanga urged the public to focus on constructive dialogue and meaningful engagement. Emphasizing the importance of development and growth, he outlined key areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, water systems, youth empowerment, and agriculture for concentrated efforts.

Acknowledging the crowd’s excitement, the Regional Minister reminded everyone to observe protocols and security measures, promising to interact informally once official duties were attended to. He conveyed his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in the Upper West Region through dedication and hard work.

As he engaged with the media, Hon. Lawyer Puozuine Charles Lwanga highlighted his priorities including women’s empowerment, girl child education, and strategic development as his focus areas. With a focus on the 10-year development plan and potential funding opportunities, the Regional Minister expressed his commitment to driving progress in the Upper West Region.

The community’s support and prayers were sought as Hon. Lawyer Puozuing Charles Lwanga embarked on his journey as Regional Minister, with a promise to lead with integrity, diligence, and a vision for a brighter future for the region.