Upper East Regional Minister Call for Investors at PEARL Launch
Fountain Gate auditorium in Bolgatanga on Monday was buzzed with anticipation as leaders, investors, traditional rulers, and citizens gathered for the launch of the PEARL Framework, Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods. At the heart of the event, Regional Minister Mr. Donatus Akamugri Atanga delivered a stirring speech that set the tone for a new era in the Upper East Region’s development journey. With a spirit of gratitude and optimism, Minister Atanga welcomed all guests, expressing appreciation for their support and belief in the region’s potential. He acknowledged the presence and encouragement of national leaders, investors, and development partners, calling their participation “a powerful affirmation of commitment to inclusive national development.” Setting the stage for the forum, Minister Atanga declared this gathering a defining moment, a pivot from focusing on challenges to celebrating resilience, culture, resourcefulness, and opportunity. “Our true identity is found in the resilience of our people, the productivity of our farmers, the ingenuity of our entrepreneurs, the richness of our culture, the abundance of our natural resources, and the immense opportunities that await strategic investments,” he proclaimed. The PEARL Framework, he explained, is the region’s bold, ten-year blueprint for transformation. Spanning all fifteen districts and aiming to mobilize over GH¢8.6 billion in investments, PEARL is designed to unlock opportunities in enterprise, agriculture, industrialization, infrastructure, and human capital development. Its goal: a competitive, resilient, and inclusive economy that contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s national transformation. Minister Atanga highlighted the region’s recent gold discoveries and the rise of major mining companies, stressing that these developments must become catalysts for broad-based prosperity. “The mineral wealth beneath our soil must become a catalyst for prosperity across agriculture, health, education, infrastructure, enterprise development, and improved livelihoods for every household in our Region,” he asserted. Yet, he warned, “Mining alone cannot deliver the transformation we seek.” True progress, he said, depends on building a diversified, innovative economy, strengthening industries, investing in people, and forging strategic partnerships. He called for investment across sectors, including agriculture, agribusiness, renewable energy, manufacturing, tourism, housing, technology, and logistics. The minister outlined flagship initiatives to be discussed at the forum: the completion of the Tamne Irrigation Dam, revival of key agro-processing factories, establishment of an Agricultural Technical University, and upgrades to regional hospitals and educational infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of behavioral and attitudinal change, insisting that infrastructure and investment would only bear fruit if matched by a culture of productivity, discipline, and responsibility. Minister Atanga underscored that the success of PEARL would require “collective commitment, shared responsibility, and sustained collaboration.” He extended heartfelt thanks to sponsors, partners, traditional leaders, and all contributors, recognizing that their efforts had made the forum, and the region’s new vision, possible. To the youth and women of the Upper East, he offered special encouragement. “PEARL is, above all, an investment in your future. Your creativity, enterprise, innovation, and leadership will be indispensable to the success of this Framework.” In closing, Minister Atanga called on all present to become partners in the region’s transformation, emphasizing hope, unity, and action over complacency or rhetoric. “Together, let us build an Upper East Region that is prosperous, resilient, competitive, peaceful, and inclusive, one that creates opportunities for its people and contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s transformation and sustainable development.” With the launch of PEARL, the Upper East Region has taken a decisive step towards a brighter, more inclusive future, one defined by collaboration, vision, and the determination to leave no community behind. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
PEARL: Presidential Message Charts Bold Path for Upper East at Development Forum
The atmosphere in Bolgatanga was charged with anticipation as the Upper East Regional Development and Business Forum and Exhibition commenced, a landmark event that drew government officials, traditional leaders, entrepreneurs, and development partners from across Ghana and beyond. Representing President John Dramani Mahama, Mr. Augustus Obuadum Tanoh, Presidential Adviser on the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development, delivered a powerful address that both honored the region’s heritage and set a bold vision for its future. Mr. Tanoh began with warm greetings from the President, expressing regret at his absence due to pressing national duties while commending the regional leadership, the PEARL Technical Working Committee, and development partners for organizing the forum. He highlighted the significance of the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme, a national initiative to transform Ghana’s productive sectors by fostering value addition, local processing, and quality job creation. Since its launch, the programme has mobilized over $11 billion in investment and targeted 1.7 million quality jobs, with the Upper East Region standing as a vital component of this nationwide push. Turning to the heart of the occasion, Mr. Tanoh praised the PEARL Framework, Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods, as a 10-year, regionally driven strategy with a GHS 8.6 billion investment portfolio. He noted that PEARL was conceived by and for the people of the Upper East, reflecting their aspirations and priorities. The government’s role, he emphasized, is to be a committed partner: aligning national policy, investment, and support behind the region’s own vision for transformation. Drawing on the region’s legacy, Mr. Tanoh recounted its centuries-old role in trans-Saharan trade, its world-renowned crafts and music, and its history of integrated industrial ventures like the Zuarungu Meat Factory and Pwalugu Tomato Factory. He stressed the importance of learning from these integrated models, where agriculture, processing, and downstream industries were linked from the outset, when designing PEARL’s new projects. Such integration, he argued, is key to sustaining industrial growth and maximizing local benefits. Mr. Tanoh underscored the region’s unique strengths: fertile lands, abundant minerals, a resilient people, and a strategic location as Ghana’s northern gateway. He described emerging opportunities in gold, clay, limestone, and granite, and called for responsible development that moves beyond extraction to build value-adding industries and decent jobs for the people. He celebrated the completion of the Tamne Irrigation Dam, the expansion of Tono, and the planned transformation of the Fumbisi Rice Valley as pivotal steps toward year-round agriculture and food security. Mr. Tanoh also highlighted plans for an Agricultural Technical University and the proposed Bolgatanga Airport, both set to elevate the region’s status as a hub for trade, education, and investment. On behalf of President Mahama, Mr. Tanoh gave three assurances: once the PEARL Framework is validated, national institutions will integrate its priority projects into Ghana’s development agenda; the government will deepen regional empowerment and partnership; and the President himself will champion the region’s investment-ready projects on the global stage. He called on all stakeholders to scrutinize, refine, and strengthen the Framework over the forum’s three days, ensuring its proposals withstand rigorous review and deliver lasting results. To investors, he extended an invitation to explore the region’s opportunities, form partnerships, and support innovation and job creation. In closing, Mr. Tanoh praised the traditional authorities for their commitment to peace and stability, recognizing that sustainable development thrives only in such conditions. He officially declared the Upper East Regional Development and Business Forum and Exhibition open, wishing blessings on the region and the nation. With the PEARL Framework as its roadmap, the Upper East Region now stands poised to shape its own destiny, guided by visionary leadership, community ownership, and national partnership. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Builsa South Showcases Its Riches as the Food Basket of the North at PEARL Framework Launch
The vibrant town of Bolgatanga today played host to the unveiling of the PEARL (Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods) Framework, a 10-year blueprint for transforming the Upper East Region. Amidst the energy and optimism of the event, officials from the Builsa South District Assembly seized the opportunity to highlight their district’s unique strengths on a regional and national stage. Speaking passionately on behalf of the Assembly, Jafar Mohammed Saeed did not mince words as he described Builsa South as the undisputed food basket of the North. “Wherever you are, far or near, the very best place for your investments in agri- and agro-processing, or any agri-business, is Builsa South. No doubt about that,” he declared in an interview with Apexnewsgh. Saeed pointed to the district’s vast commercial rice valleys, emphasizing that farming here was not a matter of a few acres, but of hundreds and hundreds of acres ripe for cultivation. “Every farmer, far and near, can take advantage of our resources,” he said. He called on investors to explore opportunities in irrigation, noting that with the right facilities, Builsa South could unlock year-round farming and move beyond their heavy reliance on seasonal rains. But the district’s offerings extend far beyond rice. Saeed proudly highlighted Builsa South’s reputation for quality honey, especially from the Donninga area, making it the destination of choice for health-conscious consumers and commercial buyers alike. He also pointed to opportunities in shea butter production, livestock rearing, and other agricultural ventures. “Whether you’re looking for bulls, sheep, goats, or any livestock in commercial quantities, Builsa South is the place to be,” he said. Saeed was quick to assure potential investors that Builsa South has created a welcoming, enabling environment for business. “We are ready and eager to work with anyone willing to invest. You will find a stress-free investment environment here,” he promised. As the PEARL Framework charts a bold path for the Upper East Region from 2026 to 2035, Builsa South stands out as a beacon of agricultural potential and opportunity, ready to feed Ghana and attract the investment needed to fuel its growth. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Samson Awingobit Asaki Rallies Stakeholders for Upper East Transformation at PEARL Framework Launch
It was a momentous day as Samson Awingobit Asaki, Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, stood before an eager audience at the launch of the PEARL (Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods) Framework. The air was thick with hope and ambition as Mr. Asaki addressed the gathering, marking the beginning of a bold 10-year journey to transform the Upper East Region through agriculture, enterprise, and responsible mining from 2026 to 2035. With pride, Mr. Asaki acknowledged the honor bestowed upon his Association to serve as Co-Organizer of the landmark event. “This Forum, under the theme ‘Charting the Course for PEARL – Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture and Regional Livelihoods,’ is not just another conference,” he declared. “It is a bold declaration that the Upper East Region is ready to take its rightful place as a strategic destination for investment, industrialization, agribusiness, trade, and entrepreneurship.” He praised the vision behind the PEARL Framework, which he described as a demonstration of purposeful leadership and a commitment to creating sustainable economic opportunities in the region. He reminded the audience that no nation could achieve meaningful economic transformation without strengthening its productive sectors, improving trade competitiveness, and connecting local producers to both regional and international markets. Highlighting the potential of the Upper East Region, Asaki pointed to its resources, from agriculture and agro-processing to shea, livestock, textiles, handicrafts, and cross-border commerce. “What is required,” he explained, “is strategic investment, infrastructure development, value addition, access to finance, and efficient market linkages.” He emphasized that such progress could only be achieved through partnerships. Asaki reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to working with government, local authorities, development partners, and the private sector to unlock new trade opportunities for businesses across the region. Mr. Asaki further commended the renewed national focus under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, which prioritized revitalizing local production, promoting agriculture, and creating decent jobs through private sector growth. He applauded the government’s drive to improve the business environment, enhance trade facilitation, and modernize Ghana’s ports and logistics ecosystem, all of which would help position the country as the preferred gateway for regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Looking to the future, Asaki encouraged local entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, improve product quality, and seize emerging opportunities in export and regional commerce. “The future belongs to businesses that are competitive, export-ready, and resilient,” he said, urging development partners and investors to recognize the Upper East Region’s wealth of opportunities and hardworking people. Bringing his speech to a close, the Executive Secretary assured the Regional Coordinating Council of the Importers and Exporters Association’s unwavering commitment. “We stand ready to support initiatives that promote enterprise development, expand exports, facilitate investment, and create sustainable prosperity for the people of the Upper East Region,” he declared, setting the stage for a decade of transformation and shared success. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
PEARL: The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources Urges Upper East to Invest in Human Capital
The occasion was the launch of the PEARL (Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods) Framework, a bold 10-year plan aiming to transform the region through agriculture, enterprise, and responsible mining from 2026 to 2035. Representing the Sector Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, Deputy Minister Alhaji Yusif Sulemana delivered a message that resonated deeply. He urged the people of Upper East to unite and focus on investing in their greatest asset: human resources. “When mining companies come calling for local projects or new recruits, we must be ready,” he said, emphasizing that technology and money alone were not enough. “If you lack the skilled people to recruit, the opportunity will pass you by.” With gold recently discovered in commercial quantities in 10 out of 15 districts, hopes are high that mining will bring jobs and prosperity. Yet, Mr. Sulemana cautioned that attracting mining investments is only the first step. “Jobs for local people aren’t guaranteed unless we develop the skills mining companies need,” he explained. “If we aren’t prepared, companies will look elsewhere for talent.” He called on all stakeholders, government, local authorities, and community leaders, to prioritize investment in education, skills training, and workforce development. Only by equipping residents with the necessary expertise, he argued, can the region fully benefit from the economic opportunities ahead. Mr. Sulemana reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting the PEARL Framework and partnering in environmental projects that advance the region’s sustainable development. “Whatever environmental projects the Upper East is undertaking, we want to be part of it,” he said, pledging his support on behalf of the Ministry. As the Upper East Region embarks on this transformative journey, the message from the Ministry is clear: investing in people is the key to unlocking the full benefits of the region’s natural riches. By working together and preparing the local workforce, the region can ensure that prosperity reaches every community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GTEC Warns Public Against Unrecognised Tertiary Institutions and Certificates
The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) has issued a strong caution to the public, urging prospective students, employers, and stakeholders to avoid enrolling in or accepting certificates from 80 tertiary institutions that are currently not recognised by the Commission due to quality assurance concerns. In an official statement released on Thursday, June 25, 2026, GTEC emphasized the importance of due diligence when considering academic programmes or qualifications from these institutions. “The Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC) wishes to inform the public that the institutions listed below are currently not recognised by the Commission due to various quality assurance concerns. Accordingly, the public is advised to exercise due diligence about any certificates issued by these institutions,” the statement read. The unrecognised institutions span several countries, including Ghana, the United States, India, Switzerland, and more. Among the list are names such as Universidad Azteca (Mexico), Indian School of Management and Studies (India), Breyer State Theology University (USA), Debest College of Science, Arts and Business (Ghana), and Atlantic International University (USA), among others. GTEC’s warning highlights the growing issue of unaccredited institutions offering tertiary education and issuing certificates that may not be valid for employment or further studies. The Commission reiterated its commitment to upholding educational standards and protecting the interests of students and employers in Ghana. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the official GTEC website or contact the Commission directly to verify the accreditation status of any tertiary institution before enrolling. Employers are also advised to scrutinize academic certificates to ensure they are issued by recognised and accredited institutions. The full list of unrecognised institutions is available through GTEC and includes 80 entities across several countries, underscoring the need for vigilance in the higher education sector. No. Institution Country 1 Universidad Azteca Mexico 2 Indian School of Management and Studies India 3 Breyer State Theology University USA 4 Debest College of Science, Arts and Business Ghana 5 Osiri University USA 6 Atlantic International University USA 7 Faith University Seminary (FUS) Ghana 8 Christian University College Monrovia Liberia 9 Rhema Bible Training College (RBTC) USA 10 Universidad Empresarial de Costa Rica Costa Rica 11 Selinus University of Sciences and Literature Italy 12 Crown University International Chartered USA 13 Monarch Business School Switzerland 14 City University Cambodia 15 Kesmond International University USA 16 Washington University of Barbados Barbados 17 London Academy of Technology and Management UK 18 IICSE University USA 19 Doxa Open University Ghana 20 Brainae University USA 21 University of Haana Germany 22 Christian Leadership University USA 23 International Institute of Church Management Inc. USA 24 Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Training School Ghana 25 Louisiana Baptist University & Seminary USA 26 Tech Global University Andorra 27 International Christian University Nigeria 28 LIGS University Hawaii, USA 29 Swiss Management Centre University Switzerland 30 Quest International University Ghana 31 Isles International University Ireland 32 Kingsnow University USA 33 New Life Bible College and Seminary USA 34 East Bridge University France 35 Texila American University Guyana 36 Vision International University USA 37 Keisie International University USA 38 Dublin Metropolitan University UK/Cyprus 39 Logos University USA 40 University of America USA 41 Kazian School of Management India 42 University of Northwest USA 43 Akamai University Hawaii, USA 44 Trinity Graduate School of Apologetics and Theology (TGSAT) India 45 American Bible University USA 46 California Creek University USA 47 Delta International University USA 48 National Institute of Business Management (NIBM) India 49 Southern California International University USA 50 Quetzalcoatl University of Veracruz Mexico 51 Swiss International Management Academy Switzerland 52 IBM Institute of Management India 53 Dunster Business School Switzerland 54 World Academy for Research and Development (WARD) UK 55 American Management University USA 56 All Nations Church International University Texas, USA 57 Freedom University and Theological Seminary USA 58 Global Theological University USA 59 Jorasome International University Zambia 60 Kingdom Living Bible Institute Kumasi, Ghana 61 Global Professional College Effiduase, Ghana 62 London School of Management and Technology (LSMT) UK 63 European Institute of Management and Technology Switzerland 64 Volta University College Ghana & Nigeria 65 United Nigeria University College Nigeria 66 Open International University Nigeria 67 Marquis Open University Italy 68 Alliance International University Zambia 69 All Saints American University Liberia 70 Colombia International University USA 71 American Management University USA 72 University of the Nations Hawaii, USA 73 Brookside University Barbados 74 Pacific International University USA 75 American University of Sovereign Nations USA 76 Brussels Capital University Türkiye 77 Richmond Open University Nigeria 78 Freie und Private Universität Herisa Switzerland 79 OAA Consulting Limited Kumasi, Ghana 80 Competency School of Business Administration (COSBA) Kumasi, Ghana Source: Apexnewsgh.com
New Drug Detection Systems Set for Accra International Airport as Ghana Steps Up Anti-Narcotics Efforts
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has unveiled plans to roll out advanced drug detection systems, featuring state-of-the-art mobile drug detection scanners, at Accra International Airport beginning August 2026. This initiative, jointly supported by the governments of Ghana and the Netherlands, marks a significant step in the country’s intensified efforts to curb illicit drug trafficking. The announcement comes on the heels of a major operation that saw the arrest of an alleged drug kingpin linked to the seizure of approximately 320 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in a charcoal shipment from Ghana and intercepted in Australia. Speaking at a durbar to commemorate the 2026 World Drug Day in Accra on Friday, June 26, NACOC Director-General Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey expressed concern about Ghana’s growing role as both a transit and distribution hub for illicit drugs. “The Government of Ghana has provided mobile drug detection scanners to NACOC just yesterday [June 25]. In collaboration with the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, we are undertaking a full replacement of the body and baggage intrusive scanners at Accra International Airport, which have been non-operational for over three years,” Brigadier General Mantey announced. He also revealed a major expansion of NACOC’s operational footprint, with district operational commands increasing from fewer than 10 to 77 nationwide, now covering all 16 regions. The commission has received 27 new operational vehicles to support field deployments. In a move to build capacity for future anti-narcotics professionals, Mantey shared that a 100-acre parcel of land has been secured at the Akwamu Traditional Area for the establishment of a dedicated NACOC training school. “This is a landmark investment in the next generation of narcotics professionals, and that is why I am interested in my students,” he noted. With these measures, the NACOC aims to strengthen its ability to detect, deter, and disrupt narcotics trafficking at Ghana’s borders and beyond. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ministry Unveils PharmaVax Programme to Transform Ghana’s Pharmaceutical Sector
The Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry has announced a bold new initiative to revolutionize Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector through the launch of the PharmaVax Programme. The programme, which was outlined at a meeting in Accra on Thursday, 25th June 2026, aims to strengthen governance, attract investment, and expand market opportunities for local manufacturers. According to the ministry, the PharmaVax Programme is anchored on four key pillars: strengthening governance institutions within the pharmaceutical sector; enhancing public-private dialogue between government and industry; improving the environment for foreign direct investment and trade; and promoting greater transparency in investment conditions and authorization processes. Speaking on behalf of the Hon. Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Director of Administration, Mr. Yaw Sakyi, emphasized the government’s commitment to making Ghana the pharmaceutical manufacturing hub of the sub-region. He noted that the new Pharmaceutical Policy would provide the necessary implementation systems to ensure the sector’s growth. Mr. Sakyi also expressed gratitude to the European Union and the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development for their financial support of €415,437.78. As part of the initiative, Mr. Godfred Gobah, Head of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Development Unit, stated that the Ministry would actively engage the private sector and participate in both local and international events. These efforts are designed to boost the visibility of Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry and create new market access opportunities. The Ministry expects the PharmaVax Programme to lay a solid foundation for achieving several strategic objectives by 2030. These include doubling the export value of pharmaceutical products within the ECOWAS market and increasing the market share of locally produced pharmaceuticals from 30 percent to 60 percent. Working in partnership with GIZ Ghana, the European Union, and other key stakeholders, the Trade Ministry is focused on building a robust ecosystem to drive the growth and global competitiveness of Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
President Mahama Unveils Plans for State Assets Protection Bill
President John Dramani Mahama has revealed that Cabinet has instructed the Attorney-General, Dr Dominic Ayine, to prepare new legislation aimed at safeguarding Ghana’s state assets. The forthcoming State Assets Protection Bill was announced during the Ghana Civil Society Forum 2026, held under the theme “Reimagining Partnerships for Democratic Consolidation and Inclusive Development.” Addressing participants at the forum, President Mahama emphasized the need to shield public property from arbitrary disposal by any government. He explained that the bill will cover a broad range of state assets, including lands, buildings, factories, and industries. “The bill is intended to prevent any government from the arbitrary disposal of state assets,” President Mahama stated. He further noted that the State Assets Protection Bill will establish clear and transparent guidelines for the disposal of public property, ensuring that no administration can unilaterally sell or transfer national assets at its discretion. According to the President, this legislative move is part of ongoing efforts to promote good governance, accountability, and the responsible management of the country’s resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Two Dead, Four Injured in Tragic Head-On Collision on Elubo–Takoradi Highway
Tragedy struck along the Elubo–Takoradi Highway on Friday when a head-on collision between a tipper truck and a Nigerian passenger bus left two people dead and four others injured. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported that the crash involved a Sinotruck (Howo) tipper truck with registration number GS 3789-24 and a Nigerian-registered passenger bus, AAA 449 YN, traveling from Lagos. The devastating accident occurred near Abease, prompting an urgent emergency response. According to the GNFS, personnel from the Elubo Fire Station were alerted to the incident at 11:53 a.m. A five-member rescue team, led by Assistant Divisional Officer II Clement Arthur and supported by Assistant Divisional Officer I Issifu Dauda Kaku, arrived at the scene within six minutes of the distress call. Upon arrival, firefighters found that three victims had already been rescued by bystanders. However, five more individuals—including passengers from the bus and the mate of the tipper truck—remained trapped in the wreckage. The rescue team acted swiftly to extricate the remaining victims, providing emergency care before conveying four injured persons to the Elubo Government Hospital. Tragically, the driver of the passenger bus was pronounced dead at the scene. The tipper truck’s mate, who was among the injured, later died at the hospital. Both bodies have been deposited at the hospital morgue as investigations continue. Preliminary findings by the Ghana National Fire Service indicate the accident was likely caused when the bus driver, in an attempt to avoid a pothole, veered into the path of the oncoming tipper truck, resulting in the fatal collision. Authorities are continuing their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Source: Apexnewsgh.com