The Executive Director of T-More Enterprise, Mr. Thomas More, Reveals the Hidden Struggles of Local Contractors in Nabdam District
During the commissioning and handover ceremony of a newly built 10-seater pour-flush toilet and a mechanized borehole with a 5-unit shower system at Pelingu, an initiative spearheaded by the Member of Parliament for Nabdam, Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, Mr. Thomas More, Executive Director of T-More Enterprise, shared a candid account of the challenges he faces as a local contractor working in rural communities. Speaking at the short ceremony, Mr. More took the opportunity to reveal the behind-the-scenes realities that local contractors endure. He began by pointing out a deep-rooted issue: while projects are carried out in the district, very few local Nabdam people hold key positions in the assembly. “If you go to the assembly now, how many of you are Nabdams?” he asked. “The coordinating director might not be a Nabdam, the finance officer might not be a Nabdam, and the community health workers are not always Nabdams either.” This, Mr. More explained, means that apart from a few opportunities. such as hiring a local contractor or providing accommodation, locals often gain little else from the projects executed in their own communities. Mr. More delved into the difficulties of securing labor and resources. He described how the proliferation of contracts in the region has driven up labor costs and made skilled workers scarce. “Labor has become very difficult to come by, and very expensive,” he lamented. Skilled workers are constantly in demand, and contractors often find themselves waiting weeks or even months before someone becomes available. “When the assembly finally pays you, you can’t even find electricians to come and work,” he recounted, highlighting the labor shortages that delay projects. He painted a vivid picture of the struggle to secure essential services. Mr. More shared how he had to rely on a generator for weeks while waiting for electricity to be connected to a recently completed project. “The demand for electricity is so high that applications pile up for months,” he explained, and some people resort to hiring unofficial workers just to get connected. Another challenge lies in the economics of labor. With contract work more lucrative than traditional farming, many young people are abandoning agriculture in favor of construction work, yet even then, the returns are modest. “How many bags of maize will you get for this farm? Multiply that by 300 cedis, and that is what you’ll get in one day,” he observed, underscoring why so few are willing to return to the fields or take on physically demanding jobs for contractors. Mr. More also spoke about the frustrating unpredictability of payments for completed work. He described how delays in assembly payments force contractors to suspend operations and sometimes leave workers unpaid for months. “If they take three or four months before paying me, it doesn’t matter,” he said, “I have seven people depending on me.” Despite these hardships, Mr. More expressed gratitude for being given the chance to deliver such projects to his community and called for greater support for local contractors. He appealed to policymakers and community leaders to encourage residents to construct toilets in their homes and to prioritize local involvement in development projects. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Region Sees Boom in Schools, Health Projects, and 24-Hour Markets—Jonathan Abdallah Salifu
A wave of transformative development is sweeping through the Upper East Region, as the government’s new approach to infrastructure and social services begins to take hold at the district level. Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, Upper East Regional Communication Officer for the NDC, recently shared an inside look at how hospitals, CHIPS compounds, schools, and market projects are being rolled out like never before. According to the Regional Communication Officer, the rules have changed for the better. District assemblies are now tasked with building two schools and two CHIPS compounds every year using the District Assembly Common Fund, and, crucially, they must now provide furniture for every new classroom. “We don’t want a situation where school blocks are put up and the issue of furniture becomes a problem,” he explained. Now, when a school or CHIPS compound is built, it’s also furnished, which explains the higher price tags on recent contracts. Efforts have also intensified to tackle water shortages, with additional boreholes and water systems being installed under the assemblies’ watch. The regional minister himself has crisscrossed all districts, cutting sod for landmark projects like the much-anticipated 24-hour markets. “The region has enjoyed over 115 projects, which is unprecedented,” Jonathan said. “It has never happened before.” Education, too, is getting a major boost. Almost every senior high school is receiving infrastructure upgrades. Schools like Navrongo Senior High (NAVASCO), which has long needed a proper fence wall, are finally seeing that dream materialize, with a brand-new 18-unit classroom block thrown in. Other schools, from Sandema to Bawku, are also enjoying facelifts, new blocks, and better facilities, thanks to support from GETFund and local government. Even entirely new schools are being built, complete with dormitories, teachers’ accommodation, dining and assembly halls, and modern WASH facilities. The new 24-hour markets are another feather in the region’s cap. Every district has received land for these markets, and contractors are already hard at work. Funding is transparent and reliable: 25% of each district’s common fund is set aside for these projects, a stark contrast to previous initiatives whose funding sources were often unclear by the NPP administration. Meanwhile, the University for Development Studies (UDS) is making strides toward a fully operational medical school. Key auxiliary departments are already running, and recruitment is on for more lecturers. For now, the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital will serve as a teaching facility, with future upgrades planned to meet the medical school’s requirements. Mr.Jonathan took pride in these achievements, noting that all this has happened within just a year and a half of the NDC’s administration. “If you ask any of our political opponents what they achieved in one and a half years, they cannot mention,” he said. He commended the president, the MPs, and all stakeholders pushing tirelessly for development, often working behind the scenes and facing criticism for the sake of their constituents. Mr. Jonathan also called for constructive criticism of MPs. “They should be criticized positively,” he urged, lamenting that some critics attack MPs simply for belonging to the opposite party. In contrast, he sees the region’s MPs as responsive and hardworking, always striving to bring more progress home. He believes, the Upper East Region is experiencing an era of record-breaking development: stronger schools, better healthcare, new markets, and a collaborative spirit between government and people. The future, it seems, is brighter than ever. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NDC’s Jonathan Abdallah Salifu Shares Real Update on Upper East Region Road Infrastructure
Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, the Upper East Regional Communication Officer of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), has given a candid account of the state of road infrastructure in the Upper East Region, painting a vivid picture of both the challenges and ongoing efforts to improve the situation. Jonathan began by acknowledging what everyone in the region knows: “When it comes to road infrastructure, the Upper East is lagging behind.” The region’s most important highway, the Bolga-Tamale Road, is in poor condition. Built over twenty years ago by President Rawlings, the road has outlived its lifespan, yet residents continue to make do with its deteriorating state. According to Jonathan, the previous government under President Akufo-Addo had made attempts to address the issue by awarding a dualization and bitumen resurfacing contract to an Indian contractor. However, after mobilizing with $25 million and bringing equipment near Savulgu, the contractor disappeared, leaving the equipment behind and the project abandoned. The road minister, upon visiting the region, promised to follow up on the contract and hinted at possibly including the project in the government’s ambitious “Big Push” agenda. This, at least, offered the region a glimmer of hope. Turning to the Bolga-Bawku Road, Jonathan recalled how funding for its construction was sourced from two London-based banks during President Akufo-Addo’s tenure. Unfortunately, work stalled around 2022-2023, largely due to Ghana’s debt restructuring program. Contractors, uncertain about payments, withdrew from the site. In response, Jonathan himself organized a press conference, laying out the facts and figures behind the stalling of the project. There was renewed hope when Hon. Isaac Adongo announced that the funding had been reinstated after meetings in London during an IMF program. The Finance Minister echoed this optimism, stating that the banks had agreed to continue funding not only the Bolga-Bawku Road but also other projects across the country. However, delays persisted as the banks sought to renegotiate terms, causing further setbacks. Jonathan recounted how construction resumed briefly, with contractors even working on a key bridge, but further legal and financial clarifications were needed. Meanwhile, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, while launching another project in Bawku, assured the public that negotiations with the banks were ongoing and that work was expected to resume soon. The conversation then shifted to the Kuala Bridge, a critical but dangerous crossing along the Bolga East route. Jonathan shared concerns from community members about the bridge’s hazardous condition, questioning why local leaders couldn’t implement a temporary fix. He explained the complexities of road contracts, once a project is awarded, making independent changes can be challenging. He pointed that the regional minister had attempted a temporary solution, but community resistance, fueled by demands for a permanent bitumen surface, halted progress. Jonathan noted that the Bolga East MP Dr. Dominic Ayine, who also serves as Attorney General, was quietly working behind the scenes to resolve the issue, expressing confidence in his capabilities. Jonathan also highlighted the efforts of other MPs in the region. The Nabdam MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, for example, has been pushing the road ministry to resume work on several abandoned roads, such as the Asonge-Zanlerigu-Damolgo-Pelingu Road (awarded in 2023 but quickly abandoned) and the Nangodi-Yankuti-Pelingu Road (awarded in 2018 and left incomplete). The MP is seeking new commitments from the ministry to either repackage these projects for different contractors or secure stronger assurances from the current ones. There was better news for the Tongo-Sheega-Pelingu Road, a 12.5-kilometer stretch that had recently seen a contractor move to site to begin mapping and preparation for full construction. Similarly, the Navrongo-Naga-Kolugu Road, a key route connecting major educational institutions, was set for a revival after the MP announced that the contractor’s payments had been settled, paving the way for work to resume soon. Within Bawku township, Hon. Mahama Ayariga announced a 30-million-cedi investment to improve three major areas, further signaling progress in the region. Hon. Isaac Adongo was also credited with securing funding for the Ojam Junction to Kalbeo stretch, with contractors actively working on site offices. Jonathan concluded by emphasizing the importance of keeping the public informed and maintaining optimism. “Even though we wish we had already completed many of these roads, we’re not disappointed,” he said. “A year and a half into office, these are our achievements.” He also highlighted the “Big Push” roads from Navrongo to Tumu and Wa, noting that significant portions were already usable, giving travelers hope and prompting widespread praise for the government’s efforts. While the Upper East Region continues to face significant challenges in road infrastructure, Jonathan Abdallah Salifu’s update reveals a region in transition, marked by setbacks, determined advocacy, and cautious optimism for the future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Our Government’s Achievements in Upper East Are Very Remarkable” — Jonathan Abdallah Salifu
The Upper East Region is witnessing a new wave of optimism as Jonathan Abdallah Salifu, the Regional Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), shared encouraging updates on the government’s progress in the region. Speaking to Apexnewsgh on Speakout Upper East, , Salifu emphasized that, despite being only a year and a half into President Mahama’s administration, the region is already seeing tangible signs of development and hope for the future. Reflecting on the government’s tenure so far, Salifu stated, “We haven’t even reached half of our term, yet if you look at what has been accomplished, the results are remarkable. Our manifesto was designed for a four-year term, not just for one or two years, so benchmarking our progress now shows we are on the right track.” One of the flagship projects mentioned was the regional airport. According to Salifu, all the necessary documentation and arrangements have been finalized with the Ghana Airport Company. “Within just one and a half years, this is an excellent achievement. During the eight years under the previous NPP administration, we saw nothing but confusion regarding project allocation and land matters,” he noted. “Now, with everything in place, we are hopeful to see the president commission the project soon.” Salifu also highlighted efforts to revive two key local industries: the Pawlungu Tomatoes Factory, now known as Northern Star, and the Zuarungu Meat Factory. He pointed out that, apart from an attempt by President Kufour in the past, little had been done to bring these factories back to life until now. The communication officer revealed that the MCE had reached out to Testy Tom, a well-known tomato processing company, to assess the potential takeover of the tomatoes factory. The hope is that this move will empower farmers to resume large-scale tomato cultivation, creating jobs and boosting the local economy. Regarding the Zuarungu Meat Factory, Salifu recounted a recent conversation with the area’s Member of Parliament, Dr. Dominic Ayine, who personally financed a consultant to conduct a thorough assessment of the facility. The consultant’s report outlines the costs involved in reviving the factory and explores alternative options for its use. With this documentation in hand, Dr. Ayine is prepared to approach the president for further direction, a step Salifu described as bold and promising. “These achievements have all taken place within just one and a half years,” Salifu concluded, expressing confidence that the NDC government’s ongoing efforts would continue to bring meaningful development to the Upper East Region. The message was clear: the groundwork is being laid, and the region is poised for continued progress under President Mahama’s leadership. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Nabdam to Benefit from Free Primary Healthcare Kiosk—MP Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane Announces
It was a day of hope and celebration in the Nabdam Constituency as Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, the Member of Parliament, and unveiled exciting news during the commissioning of a new Maternity Block. Speaking to the gathered community members, Dr. Nawaane revealed that Nabdam would be among the 50- 60 constituencies nationwide selected to receive a Primary Healthcare Special Market Kiosk package. Dr. Nawaane explained the motivation behind this initiative. “Primary Health Care is mainly about preventive medicine, stopping sickness before it even starts,” he shared. He recounted how many women, especially those working in the bustling Pelingu market, often forego routine medical checkups due to busy schedules or lack of access. Tragically, this sometimes means that manageable conditions like hypertension go unnoticed until they escalate into severe complications such as strokes or kidney failure. “With the introduction of the health kiosk right at the market, our mothers and sisters won’t have to wait until they are seriously ill before seeking help,” Dr. Nawaane emphasized. The new kiosk will offer checkups and treatment for minor illnesses, including blood pressure screening, all at no cost. “By catching these issues early, we can prevent major health crises before they happen.” He stressed that the services would be entirely free. “You don’t need to pay anything. Whether or not you have national health insurance, you can walk in, get checked, and receive assistance at no charge,” Dr. Nawaane assured the community. However, he also encouraged everyone to maintain their national health insurance for broader health coverage. Nabdam is proud to be chosen in the first phase of this important project, which will see 50 to 60 such kiosks established across the country. Dr. Nawaane believes the initiative will be especially valuable in Pelingu, where market women stand to benefit the most by gaining easy access to essential primary healthcare. The new health kiosk promises to be a lifeline for many, bringing accessible, preventive care to the heart of Nabdam’s busy markets and helping ensure a healthier future for its people. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Special Police Team Deployed to Cape Coast Following Student’s Death
When the tragic news of a University of Cape Coast student’s death reached the authorities, Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno knew immediate action was crucial. Without delay, he assembled a special task force of seasoned investigators and intelligence officers, sending them straight to the Central Region. Their mission was clear: reinforce ongoing police operations and bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the student’s untimely passing. This specialized team, handpicked for their expertise, quickly integrated with the regional police command. Together, they intensified fact-finding efforts, combining local knowledge with advanced investigative techniques. The deployment signaled not just a tactical move, but a broader commitment by the Ghana Police Service to ensure a thorough and coordinated response. Throughout the process, the police assured the bereaved family, the university community, and the public that the investigation would be conducted with the utmost professionalism, transparency, and diligence. Their promise was simple yet powerful: to uncover the truth behind the incident and provide answers to all those affected. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Diaspora Community Commends Interior Minister, Seeks Improved Passport Services In Poland
Nigerians living in Poland and across Central and Eastern Europe have called for enhanced passport and consular services in the region, while commending the Federal Government of Nigeria for its continued engagement with citizens in the diaspora. The appeal was made during a special engagement with the Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who led a high-level Nigerian delegation to Poland for some bilateralassignments. Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian community, Chairman of APC Poland, Mr. Adekunle Ayoola, welcomed the Minister, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, heads of Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies, diplomatic officials, and distinguished guests to the gathering of Nigerians resident in Poland. Ayoola described the Nigerian diaspora as a vital bridge between Nigeria and the international community, noting that Nigerians across Europe continue to make significant contributions in sectors including education, healthcare, technology, business, research, sports, and public service. He emphasized that while diaspora Nigerians remain committed to promoting Nigeria’s image abroad and contributing to national development, access to efficient passport and documentation services remains a critical concern for many citizens living overseas. According to him, the growing population of Nigerians in Poland and neighboring countries has placed increasing pressure on existing consular and passport services in Warsaw, making it necessary for government to strengthen service delivery mechanisms. “We respectfully appeal for continued investment in modernizing passport services in Warsaw through increased processing capacity, expanded appointment availability, enhanced digital solutions, and the provision of additional resources where necessary,” Ayoola stated. He observed that many Nigerians travel considerable distances from various parts of Central and Eastern Europe to access passport and biometric enrollment services in Poland, adding that improvements would significantly reduce the burden on applicants while deepening the relationship between Nigeria and its citizens abroad. The APC Poland Chairman also acknowledged the efforts of Nigerian Embassy officials, particularly the Immigration Attaché and relevant government agencies, for their dedication in serving the diaspora community despite operational challenges and growing demand. He reiterated the readiness of the Nigerian diaspora community to partner with government initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement with Nigerians abroad, promoting national unity, and creating opportunities that benefit both the homeland and overseas citizens. As part of the event, the diaspora community presented an Award of Excellence and Appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Interior in recognition of his support and commitment to Nigerians abroad. Similar recognition was also extended to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service for her contributions toward improving service delivery. Ayoola disclosed that additional honours for other agency heads would be presented during a planned diaspora engagement visit to Nigeria in July as part of activities marking Diaspora Week, where stakeholders intend to further assess and celebrate outstanding institutional performance. The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger collaboration between government and the diaspora community, as participants expressed optimism that ongoing reforms within the Ministry of Interior and its agencies would further improve service delivery and strengthen ties between Nigeria and its citizens around the world. The gathering formed part of activities surrounding the Minister’s official visit to Poland and underscored the growing importance of diaspora engagement in Nigeria’s diplomatic, economic, and national development agenda. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Upper East Regional Minister Rallies Stakeholders Ahead of 10-Year Development Forum
As the Upper East Region prepares for a pivotal Regional Economic Development Forum, Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga has called on stakeholders and residents to unite behind a shared vision for growth. Speaking at a media engagement in Bolgatanga, Mr. Atanga outlined the objectives and structure of the forum, which will take place from June 29 to July 1 and serve as the foundation for a comprehensive 10-year development plan. Minister Atanga revealed that, upon assuming office, he established an independent working committee comprised of technical experts from various sectors to guide the process. “Their role is to bring expertise to the table and ensure the plan we develop is realistic, inclusive, and focused on long-term growth,” he explained. The upcoming three-day forum will convene technical specialists, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, and other key stakeholders from across the region. The aim is to generate ideas and set clear, actionable priorities in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and economic development. Emphasizing the need for unity, the Minister urged all participants to set aside partisan interests and focus on the region’s collective progress. “We must come together as one people. This plan will only succeed if we focus on the development of the region, not individual gain,” he said. Supporting the initiative, Professor Sumaila Mohammed Asaah, a member of the working committee with experience in regional planning, encouraged residents to take the opportunity seriously. He expressed optimism that with commitment, the Upper East Region can match the developmental strides of other regions. All political parties and key ministries have been invited to the forum, which will also leverage the media’s reach to highlight investment opportunities and promote the region to potential investors. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GPCC Criticizes Current Anti-LGBTQ Bill, Calls for Stronger Protection of Family Values
The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has expressed disappointment with the recently passed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill 2025, commonly known as the Anti-LGBTQ Bill, arguing that the legislation in its present form falls short of expectations and lacks the strength needed to safeguard Ghana’s long-standing family values. In a statement addressed to Parliament and relevant stakeholders, the GPCC asserted that the Bill, as it stands, does not adequately protect Ghana’s cultural heritage or the moral fabric of society. The statement, signed by GPCC President Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye, underscored the Council’s unwavering commitment to Christian values, national morality, and the preservation of Ghanaian culture. The Council called for the reinstatement of the earlier version of the Bill, passed by the previous Parliament, describing it as more comprehensive and better equipped to address the nation’s moral and cultural concerns. “Its prior endorsement for Presidential Assent is a testament to its legislative merit, and GPCC strongly recommends that it be reinstated and passed without further delay,” the statement read. While reaffirming its solidarity with the Government, Parliament, and people of Ghana, the GPCC emphasized that it remains steadfast in defending the nation’s values and sovereignty, regardless of any domestic or international scrutiny the legislative process may attract. The Council reiterated its dedication to upholding the moral well-being of Ghanaian communities as the debate over the Bill continues. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Chief Justice Applauds Landmark Legal Education Act, Calls for Institutional Readiness
Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has lauded the passage of the Legal Education Act, 2026 (Act 1170), describing it as a transformative milestone poised to reshape Ghana’s legal education landscape and broaden pathways for aspiring lawyers. The new law, which was approved by Parliament in March and signed by President John Dramani Mahama last month, aims to both widen access to legal education and elevate the quality and relevance of professional legal training in the country. Speaking at a colloquium themed “Implementing the Legal Education Act 2026: Institutional Readiness, Accreditation and the Future of Legal Training,” Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized the importance of collaboration among universities, law faculties, and stakeholders to ensure that legal education contributes meaningfully to national development. He urged institutions offering legal education to proactively embrace the reforms, highlighting that the successful implementation of the Act will require genuine preparedness to meet new standards and expectations. “Readiness must go beyond symbolism and reflect concrete measures that uphold quality, accountability and academic standards,” he stated. The Chief Justice stressed that the emphasis should be on building strong governance structures to safeguard academic excellence and professional integrity, rather than mere regulatory compliance. He also called for substantial investment in modern learning infrastructure, such as technologically advanced moot courts and digital learning platforms, to provide students with the practical training necessary for success in the evolving legal profession. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie concluded by underscoring that such investments and reforms are essential to equipping Ghana’s future lawyers with the skills and experience needed to thrive under the new legal education framework. Source: Apexnewsgh.com