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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.

The Upper West Regional Child Protection Committee convened its second quarterly meeting for 2025 in Wa with renewed urgency and commitment to intensify efforts toward the safety and well-being of children across the region. Chaired by the Chief Director of the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council, Hajia Pognaa Fati Issaka Koray, the high-level engagement brought together key stakeholders determined to bolster child protection systems in the region.

In her compelling opening remarks, Hajia Pognaa underscored the collective responsibility required to combat child abuse, neglect, and exploitation. “The protection of our children is a shared responsibility,” she asserted. “It is not just the duty of the government but a moral and civic obligation for every member of society. We must unite against the structural threats that rob our children of their dignity and future.”

Ms. Matilda Chireh, the Regional Director of the Department of Children, reinforced the statutory mandate of the Committee and emphasized the importance of collaboration across sectors. She stressed the need to build a strong culture of accountability and reporting, noting that every case of child rights violation demands urgent attention. “It is not enough to empathize; we must act decisively to protect our children,” she declared.

The meeting also provided a platform for stakeholders, including NGOs and civil society organizations, to share insights and interventions aligned with national and international frameworks for ending violence against children. These presentations offered a blend of data, lived experiences, and actionable recommendations aimed at closing the existing protection gaps.

In a powerful submission, child rights advocate Mr. Jaafar Pelpuo called for urgent reforms to harmful cultural practices that threaten child welfare. He challenged traditional authorities and community influencers to champion child-friendly cultural transformations. “Cultural evolution is not betrayal; it is the preservation of our humanity,” he stated. “Let us redefine our values to ensure every child can grow up in peace and dignity.”

The Committee issued a strong call to law enforcement and judicial authorities to step up prosecutions of perpetrators of child abuse. It emphasized that swift justice is not only a deterrent but also a measure of the region’s seriousness in enforcing child protection laws.

The energy and solidarity displayed during the meeting reaffirm the Upper West Region’s deep commitment to a future where all children are safe, empowered, and given every opportunity to thrive. The Regional Coordinating Council, in its coordinating and oversight role, pledges to provide strategic leadership that reinforces every aspect of child protection in the region.

As we move forward, the RCC calls on parents, teachers, traditional leaders, local assemblies, civil society, and all relevant institutions to recommit to this noble cause. Together, we can build a resilient, compassionate society where every child’s right to safety and protection is a non-negotiable standard.

On the 29th of March 2025, the Upper West Regional Minister, Hon Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, attended a Youth Parliamentary Sitting at the B. K. Adama Youth Resource Centre in the Upper West Region. The Minister expressed his gratitude for being part of such an important and educative program organized by the Youth Parliament.

During the meeting, Hon Charles Lwanga Puozuing formally introduced himself as the Regional Minister for the Upper West Region and pledged his support to the youth in the region. He highlighted his vision for youth empowerment and development in the Upper West Region and the importance of engaging young people in decision-making processes.

At the Sitting, discussions focused on the issue of drug and substance abuse among the youth in the region. A report presented by stakeholders from the Narcotic Control Commission highlighted the alarming rate of drug and substance abuse among young people. The Minister expressed concern about the potential consequences of this trend and encouraged the Youth Parliament to take action to address the issue.

Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing informed the Youth Parliament about a Taskforce that had formed to coordinate efforts to combat drug and substance abuse in the region. He emphasized the need for all stakeholders to work together to tackle this pressing issue and ensure the well-being of young people in the Upper West Region.

The Minister also emphasized the importance of enforcing laws against drug abuse and announced that strict measures would be taken, including arrests and prosecution for those found engaging in drug-related activities past a certain hour. He called on everyone to support these efforts to eliminate drug abuse in the region.

Overall, the Minister expressed his gratitude to the Youth Parliament for the opportunity to engage with them and encouraged them to continue their efforts in addressing the challenges facing young people in the Upper West Region. The meeting ended on a positive note, with mutual appreciation exchanged between the Minister and the youth representatives.

The Upper West Region, on the 20th of March 2025, played host to a delegation from the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations (GFG) in a courtesy visit to the distinguished Upper West Regional Minister, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq. The purpose of the visit was to congratulate the Minister on his recent appointment and to convey their best wishes for his tenure.

Led by representatives from the GFG, the delegation was received warmly by Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, who expressed his appreciation for the visit. The GFG members, in turn, assured the Minister of their unwavering support and readiness to collaborate with his office in various capacities to advance the welfare of Persons with Disabilities in the region.

During the meeting, critical challenges facing the disabled community were brought to the Minister’s attention. These challenges included the lack of office accommodation at the Ministry Block, difficulties in accessing the roads to the resource center, issues with electricity and water supply at the resource center, and limited inclusiveness in employment opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (P.W.D).

In response, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing Esq, acknowledged the concerns raised and pledged to address them promptly. He requested the GFG members to document these challenges in writing for further action. The Minister assured the delegation of his commitment to securing a new land for the construction of a new resource center to enhance accessibility for P.W.D. He also promised to promote inclusivity of Persons with Disabilities in government employment opportunities.

Concluding the meeting, Hon. Charles Lwanga Puozuing expressed his gratitude for the visit and reiterated his dedication to working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the Upper West Region to overcome the challenges facing the disabled community. The GFG delegation departed with optimism for a fruitful partnership with the Regional Minister to bring about positive change for P.W.D.

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.