441877269_755861176719811_5874743301503142862_n

UPPER WEST REGIONAL MINISTER CUT SOD FOR CONSTRUCTION OF OVER 110 BOREHOLES

The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu has inaugurated the commencement of the construction of 110 boreholes across the eleven municipalities and districts of the upper west region.
Funded through the district assembly common fund, each district is set to benefit from 10 boreholes, with the entire project slated for completion within three months.
During the symbolic sod-cutting ceremony held on May 9th, 2024, in Jinkpan, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, the Upper West Regional Minister, emphasized the imperative of governance transcending mere rhetoric to tangible actions that uplift and empower communities.
He highlighted the commitment of the government to development by revealing the completion of over 50 transformative projects, ready to be handed over to the beneficiaries.
Hon. Yakubu underscored the diverse yet unified nature of these projects, which span from infrastructure enhancements to social welfare initiatives.
Among the initiatives singled out for mention is a compost plant, scheduled for handover in the coming days.
The Minister indicated that these projects exemplify the government’s holistic approach to development, emphasizing sustainability alongside immediate needs.
The Minister emphasized the importance of governments prioritizing development over political expediency, stating, “It’s not about giving out money for votes”
He highlighted the enthusiasm among the populace as a testament to the transformative power of people-centric governance.
Importantly, Hon. Stephen Yakubu reiterated that these projects are not imposed upon communities but co-created with them, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
The Contractor, Mr. Emmanuel Engamaaye affirmed his commitment to executing the project within the stipulated timeline.
He explained that the types of boreholes to be sunk are based on the preferences of the communities and the availability of electricity.
441578287_754611880178074_8118333226201977213_n

Nandom Boys SHS Leads the Way as First Beneficiary of “1 Student; 1 Tablet” Policy

Nandom Boys Senior High School received a donation of 1,138 tablets from the Ministry of Education, under the government’s policy initiative, “1 Student; 1 Tablet.”
The tablets were officially handed over to the students by the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, during a ceremony held at the school premises on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024.
With a student population of 1,136, every student will receive a tablet as per the policy requirements.
Addressing the gathering, the school prefect expressed a heartfelt appreciation for the donation saying “We know how much these equipments are going to help us,” the prefect remarked.
“Previously, we had only the library for our research work, and our ICT center was virtually empty. This donation will go a long way to help us enhance our educational status quo.”
Emphasizing the pioneering role of Nandom Boys SHS as the first beneficiary of the “1 Student; 1 Tablet” policy in the Upper West Region, the prefect extended gratitude to the Ministry of Education and the Upper West Regional Minister for their unwavering support.
“We as students of Nandom Senior High would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Ministry of Education for this great gesture,” the prefect stated, acknowledging the historic significance of the school’s role in spearheading this transformative initiative.
In an interview with Zakaria, the Health Prefect, on the sidelines, the sentiment of excitement and anticipation was obvious.
“We are very excited. I think this is the first time, and for our badge, this is something new,” Zakaria exclaimed.
“What they have given us is going to help us in our academic performance, and we will be able to use them to raise our results in this particular WASCE exam that we are going to write.”
The joy and gratitude expressed by students like Zakaria were echoed by Isaac, who expressed disbelief and overwhelming gratitude for the unexpected donation.
“I never thought this was going to come to pass because we all heard the rumors that they were to give us tablets. I am just amazed, I don’t know what to say,” Isaac expressed.
“God should bless them and help us use them wisely and successfully.”
Salam, another student, emphasized the commitment of the school to utilize the donated tablets for the benefit of all students.
“These items that are being delivered to us will be used for the benefit of the students,” Salam affirmed.
The significance of the donation was further emphasized by Stephen Yakubu, the Upper West Regional Minister during his speech.
“In any country that takes its education seriously, education affects your life. It affects your life and your future,” the Minister remarked.
The Minister emphasized the importance of cherishing and utilizing the tablets for their intended purpose while urging students to use the tablets responsibly.
“Let me plead on behalf of the government that you should use it very carefully. You should use it with the reason why it is given to you. You should not go and dash it to someone else. Don’t go and show off with it. That’s why there is a bag. Always make sure it is always in the bag.”
With the support of the government and other stakeholders, the students are poised to harness the transformative power of technology to unlock their full potential and shape a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

 

441899420_754101506895778_167790112386266000_n

UPPER WEST REGIONAL MINISTER MEETS WITH DEPARTMENTAL HEADS OF THE REGION

The Upper West Regional Minister urges Heads of departments to be diligent in their work.
The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, has reiterated the critical significance of diligence among heads of department in the development of the region.
In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of poverty, Hon. Stephen Yakubu emphasized the need for proactive and dedicated action among departmental leaders.
Poverty remains a pervasive challenge confronting the people of the Northern Sector, and Hon. Yakubu expressed profound concern over its enduring prevalence within the Northern Sector of Ghana.
He underscored the urgent need for decisive measures to tackle this issue head-on and highlighted the pivotal role that heads of departments play in effecting positive change to bridge the gap between the North and the South.
During an inter sectoral regional heads of departments meeting convened on Wednesday 7th May 2024, Hon. Yakubu took the opportunity to introduce himself to the assembled heads of departments and he sought to inspire and mobilize them towards collective action for the welfare of the region.
Recognizing the significant influence and responsibilities vested in departmental leaders, Hon. Yakubu urged them to harness their expertise and resources towards addressing the root causes of poverty.
The Regional Minister’s emphasis on the importance of diligence served as a rallying cry in galvanizing departmental leaders to redouble their efforts in service of the region.
As part of his vision for transformative change, Hon. Yakubu called on departmental leaders to embrace innovation and creativity in their approaches in order to achieve better results.
440139849_751838643788731_6703622543461768806_n (1)

UPPER WEST REGIONAL COORDINATING COUNCIL STAFF DURBAR FOR FIRST QUARTER 2024

The Office of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council has held its staff durbar for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2024 at the RCC’s conference Hall on Thursday 3rd May 2024.
The durbar was organized to enable Staff of the Regional Coordinating Council interact with the new Upper West Regional Minister Hon Stephen Yakubu.
Hon Stephen Yakubu took over from Dr Hafiz Bin Salih who is also now the new Upper East Regional Minister.
The Staff durbar will help the Minister understand the welfare issues of staff and some challenges confronting them at work so as to proffer solutions to such challenges to enhance service delivery.
Addressing Staff of the RCC on Thursday morning, the Regional Minister Hon Stephen Yakubu pledged his unflinching support to all workers and encouraged them to give off their best so as to achieve the developmental agenda of the Region.
He noted that, as officials of the Regional Coordinating Council, bridging the gap between the North and the South could only be feasible if workers give off their maximum best at work and change their ways of doing things at work.
He commended staff of the RCC for their hard work towards the progress of the Office of the Regional Coordinating Council and that
he will continue from where his predecessor left and support staff to help drive towards the achievement of the RCC’S goals.
Hon. Stephen Yakubu encouraged staff to work hard to support the Government led by H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo deliver it’s mandated to the good people of Ghana.
He also promised to continually see to the welfare of all staff within the RCC to ensure that they have a conducive environment for working.
The Minister is expected to also meet with Heads of Departments in the Region and commence a tour of the Region to interact with the chiefs and people of the Upper West Region
440739393_750546533917942_1385710411129767885_n

Upper West Regional Minister Meets With NPA

Upper West Regional Minister Calls for NPA to Establish Cylinder Manufacturing Company in Northern Ghana
The Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Stephen Yakubu, articulated a compelling vision for economic development in Ghana during a town hall event held on April 29, 2024, at the Upper West Regional Library in Wa.
Addressing participants at a Town Hall Meeting on Cylinder Recirculation Model, Hon. Stephen Yakubu urged the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) to take proactive steps towards establishing a cylinder manufacturing company in Northern Ghana.
He emphasized the potential transformative impact such an initiative could have on the local economy, particularly in terms of job creation for the youth.
Hon. Yakubu underscored the pressing need for sustainable employment opportunities in Northern Ghana, highlighting the significant socio-economic challenges facing the area.
By advocating for the establishment of a cylinder manufacturing company, he sought to address this need while also promoting economic diversification and resilience.
Moreover, Hon. Yakubu positioned the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) as a pivotal component of the government’s strategy to promote environmental sustainability and public safety.
He lauded the CRM as a progressive policy aimed at encouraging the widespread adoption of LPG usage while mitigating the environmental impact of traditional energy sources.
By promoting clean energy alternatives, Hon. Yakubu asserted, the government could safeguard the environment for future generations and reduce the risk of gas-related accidents.
He therefore called upon the NPA to address community concerns and ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into consideration.
440120845_750162450623017_155372431685015356_n

UW Regional Minister Addresses Workers On May Day

 

Amidst the vibrant celebrations of May Day, the Upper West Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, delivered speeches that resonated with workers across Ghana.

The address delivered on this auspicious occasion, shed light on the critical role of workers in national development and underscored the challenges they face.

Addressing vociferous workers at the Wa Jubilee Park in the Upper West Region, Hon. Stephen Yakubu emphasized the indispensable contributions of workers to the nation’s progress.

He praised their dedication and resilience, acknowledging them as the driving force behind Ghana’s economic growth.

The Minister assured workers of the government’s commitment to improving wages and conditions, urging peaceful dialogue in addressing labor issues.

He also highlighted the importance of unity and mutual respect, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections.

Delivering a speech on behalf of the National Secretary of TUC, the regional secretary of TUC Brother Godwin Gariba echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the theme chosen by the TUC: “ELECTION 2024: THE ROLE OF WORKERS AND SOCIAL PARTNERS IN SECURING PEACEFUL ELECTIONS FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.”

He stressed the need for all Ghanaians to work together to maintain peace during the electoral process.

Dr. Baah commended the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, for his leadership in ensuring peace and security, highlighting the importance of his role in safeguarding democratic principles.

Dr. Baah also addressed the socio-economic challenges faced by workers, including the high cost of living, inflation, and unemployment. He called for collective action to protect workers’ rights and improve their living standards.

The Secretary General highlighted ongoing efforts to review labor laws and address pension concerns, urging the government to ratify international conventions and tackle issues such as dumsor (power outages) and violence at work.

As Ghana continues on its path of development, the voices of workers remain essential in shaping a brighter future for all citizens.

The May Day celebrations served as a powerful reminder of the invaluable contributions of workers to Ghana’s growth and development. Through their dedication and resilience, workers embody the spirit of solidarity and collective action, driving progress and prosperity across the nation.

Introducing Hon. Stephen Yakubu: The New Upper West Regional Minister

Honorable Stephen Yakubu, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as the Upper West Regional Minister. Formerly serving as the Upper East Regional Minister, his leadership has been reshuffled to the Upper West Region.

As a seasoned politician, Hon. Yakubu contested for the Binduri seat on the NPP ticket and was a member of the 5th Parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana. His dedication to public service is evident in his impressive electoral performance, securing 50.43% of all valid votes cast.

Born on May 25, 1966, in Gotisaliga-Binduri, Upper East Region, Hon. Yakubu holds a BSc in Planning from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and a Postgraduate diploma in Information Systems from Thames Valley University Slough, UK.

Beyond his political endeavors, Hon. Yakubu is a devoted family man, married with two children. He is a practicing Christian, actively involved in the Adventist church community.

Profile of Hon. Stephen Yakubu
Hon. Stephen Yakubu is a Ghanaian politician and diplomat. He was Ghana’s Ambassador to Morocco and He was a member of Parliament for Binduri constituency in the Upper East Region of Ghana. He is currently the Upper West Regional Minister after serving as the Upper East Regional Minister from 2021 March to 2024 April.

Early life and education
Stephen Yakubu was born on May 25, 1966, at Gotisaliga-Binduri in the Upper East Region. He obtained a BSc in Planning from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and a Postgraduate diploma in Information Systems from Thames Valley University Slough, UK.

Career
Yakubu is into Development Planning, Architecture, and Quantity Surveyors.

Political life
Hon Stephen Yakubu is a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). He contested for the Binduri seat on the ticket of the NPP. He was a member of the 5th Parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana.

Personal life
He is self-employed and married with two children. He is a Christian and worships with an Adventist church.

Transition of Leadership in Upper West Region: Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih Hands Over to Hon. Stephen Yakubu

The Upper West Region recently experienced a notable shift in leadership as Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih handed over his role as Regional Minister to Hon. Stephen Yakubu. The transition, marked by a formal ceremony in Wa, signifies a pivotal moment in the region’s governance.

During the handover, Dr. Bin Salih expressed gratitude to the region’s residents for their support and outlined achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of collaboration between his administration and the incoming one.

In his response, Hon. Yakubu recognized the challenges ahead and pledged unwavering dedication to advancing the region. He thanked Dr. Bin Salih for his service and leadership.

The event, attended by dignitaries and community leaders, highlighted the collective commitment to a seamless transition. As the new Regional Minister, Hon. Yakubu assumes the responsibility of sustaining progress and addressing the region’s needs.

Right to Information (RTI) Commission Members Pay Courtesy Call to the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council

The Commission members of the Right to Information (RTI) Bill paid a courtesy visit to the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council. Their visit aimed to strengthen ties and discuss their upcoming public lecture within the region. The RTI team, on a mission to engage with the public and educate them about the importance of their work, used the opportunity to brief the Regional Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council Mr. Peter Maala on their activities. The Executive Secretary for the right to information Commission, Yaw Sarpong Boateng gave a brief background of the Right to Information (RTI) law and outlined some of the successes the Commission has achieved and the challenges it is facing in the implementation of the law. He appealed to the Regional Coordinating Council for the allocation of dedicated office space for their commission. This request reflects their determination to have a physical presence in the region, making it easier for citizens to access information and engage with the commission. This step underlines the commitment of the RTI board to establish strong working relationships with local authorities. Speaking on behalf of the Upper West Regional Minister, the Chief Director of Regional Coordinating Council, Mr. Peter Maala, assured the delegation of the fullest support and cooperation of the RCC in all the activities of the Commission in the region. He therefore indicated the readiness of the RCC in participating fully in the public lecture to be held on Thursday 9th 2023. The RTI Commission’s visit to the Upper West Region is in line with a scheduled program set to take place at Jahan Training College on Thursday. This program promises to shed light on the RTI bill’s activities and its significance in promoting transparency and accountability. The visit further exemplifies their dedication to creating awareness and fostering partnerships at the regional level. The collaboration between the RTI commission and local authorities holds the potential to empower citizens with the information they need to actively participate in governance.

Building Dreams: Daffiama SHS’s Journey Towards Educational Excellence

Introduction: Nestled in the heart of the Daffiama Bussie Issah district of the Upper West Region lies Daffiama Senior High School, a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless students seeking to realize their academic aspirations.

Despite its rich history and notable academic achievements, Daffiama SHS faces significant challenges in its quest to provide quality education to its students. Headmaster Dambie Osbert Salifu paints a vivid picture of the school’s struggles, from incomplete infrastructure projects to disciplinary issues plaguing the institution.

Undeterred by these obstacles, Mr. Osbert and his team are determined to overcome adversity and create an environment conducive to learning. Their impassioned plea for support from government and other stakeholders underscores their unwavering commitment to the students’ welfare and academic success.

Amidst these challenges, Daffiama SHS continues to shine academically, achieving commendable results in the WASSCE examinations. The recent milestone of recording its highest aggregate score since its establishment serves as a testament to the school’s dedication to excellence.

As Daffiama SHS embarks on its journey towards educational excellence, the support of stakeholders is indispensable. With collaborative efforts and unwavering determination, the school aims to not only overcome its challenges but also pave the way for a brighter future for its students, where dreams are nurtured and aspirations realized.