Uncovering the Challenges of Isaac Adongo’s Grinding Mill Projects
Development projects led by Members of Parliament (MPs) are often viewed as lifelines for communities, bridging the gap between local needs and national resources. Beyond their constitutional roles of legislation and oversight, MPs like Hon. Isaac Adongo of Bolgatanga Central have taken on direct intervention projects to address pressing grassroots issues and promote equitable resource distribution. One such intervention, the grinding mill project spearheaded by Hon. Adongo, was envisioned as a beacon of economic empowerment and relief for rural communities. Funded through the MP’s District Assembly Common Fund, the initiative set out to benefit fifteen communities by providing grinding mills to ease economic hardship and support local livelihoods. However, a recent findings by Apexnewsgh has revealed troubling challenges threatening the project’s success. In early June 2026, Apexnewsgh visited nine out of the fifteen beneficiary communities to assess the state of the grinding mill projects. The findings were sobering: all sites visited were either inactive or completely non-operational, each facing unique but significant obstacles. Common issues included: Locked and unused facilities Incomplete machinery installation Mismatched or missing machine parts Lack of electricity supply Buildings without grinding mills or with uninstalled equipment In several cases, facilities stood empty or had equipment that was never commissioned. For instance, at one site, the utility pole intended for power supply lay uninstalled on the ground. At others, critical machine parts were missing or incompatible, rendering the mills unusable from the outset. Community members and Assembly member expressed deep frustration. In Sumbrungu-Atoobisi, Assembly member Hon. Azure Samuel lamented his exclusion from the project’s planning and implementation, highlighting a lack of stakeholder engagement and gaps in accountability. “I have nothing to say because I was not carried along as a community leader,” he said, voicing a sentiment echoed in other communities. The investigation painted a picture of locked doors, silent machines, and mounting disillusionment, a far cry from the promise of economic empowerment. Detailed Findings by Community Sumbrungu-Nyobongo: Facility connected to electricity and fitted with a meter, but not yet linked to the grinding mill. The community awaits final electrical connections; the facility remains locked. Amogrebisi (Atoobisi Electoral Area): Building connected to power and metered, but locked and non-operational. Assembly member unable to give account of the project in his commutiy because he was not consulted on the project. Sumbrungu Akuka Women’s Centre: Machines and electricity are in place, but the motor was yet to be not installed as at the day Apexnewsgh visited. The entrance is secured with stones instead of locks, raising concerns about security and maintenance. Azorobisi: Facility operated only briefly at commissioning before a mechanical fault was detected. Since then, it has remained closed and unused. Kolgo Aguusi: Grinding mill non-operational; community members say parts are faulty and require replacement, despite electricity being connected. Kunbangre: No power connection, no electric meter installed, and the utility pole remains on the ground. The building is painted but unused. Sherigu-Baseongo: Building connected to power, but the grinding mill machine was never installed as at the day Apexnewsgh visited.. Dorongo-Aperika: We observed that the building was powered and metered, but grinding machine parts are mismatched and separated, leaving the machine inoperable. Tindonmolgo: Facility appears ready, with power and meter in place, but remains non-operational as the community plans a meeting to address usage before the official launch. It is important to note that Apexnewsgh was able to visit only nine out of the fifteen planned beneficiary communities; the operational status of grinding mill facilities in the remaining six communities could not be verified. MP’s Response and Acknowledgement Following weeks of findings, Apexnewsgh met Hon. Isaac Adongo during repair efforts at Dorongo-Aperika, where he personally supervised the matching of machine parts and ensured electricity credit was purchased to facilitate repairs. Hon. Adongo explained that while community members were familiar with grinding mill operation, incompatible replacement parts had stalled progress. He pledged to see the machine operational before leaving. Looking ahead, Hon. Adongo identified the need for comprehensive operator training across all fifteen communities, stressing that each grinding mill required specific operational skills. He called on suppliers to offer in-depth training for local operators, ensuring sustainability and effective use of the facilities. Addressing challenges in Baseongo and Kunbangre, the MP cited site preparation delays and electricity access issues, sometimes caused by land disputes and the need for additional infrastructure. On funding and transparency, he clarified that the project was funded from his common fund in partnership with the district assembly, which maintains detailed financial records. The project’s total cost, according to credible sources, stands at GHS 1,334,443.90, with each unit, including structure, electrification, supply, and installation, costing GHS 88,962.93. Responding to concerns about the exclusion of Assembly members like Hon. Azure Samuel, Hon. Adongo acknowledged the oversight, promising to involve such leaders in future engagements and ensure greater stakeholder inclusion. Recommendations for Project Success To overcome these challenges and realize the grinding mill project’s original goal, the following recommendations are proposed: Strengthen Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Involve Assembly members, community leaders, and local groups in planning, implementation, and monitoring. Regularly update communities on project status and address concerns promptly. Establish a project committee in each community to oversee operations and gather feedback. Complete Installation and Commissioning Conduct a comprehensive audit of all sites to identify incomplete installations and faulty machinery. Work with suppliers and technicians to ensure all machines are properly installed, tested, and commissioned before handover. Resolve Power Supply and Infrastructure Issues Liaise with the Volta River Authority (VRA) for timely power connections. Address issues such as uninstalled utility poles or delayed electrification urgently. Consider alternative power solutions where grid connection is not feasible. Provide Comprehensive Operator Training Organize hands-on training sessions for local operators, tailored to the specific machinery installed. Ensure training covers troubleshooting, maintenance, and safe operation. Establish Routine Maintenance and Rapid Response Mechanisms Set up regular inspection and servicing schedules. Develop clear fault-reporting and rapid repair processes. Allocate a small fund for emergency repairs and spare parts. Promote Transparency and Community Ownership Publicize
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
Vice President Opoku-Agyemang Champions Inclusion and Leadership in Talks with FES Ghana
Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to fostering inclusion, leadership development, and social progress during a productive meeting with Mr. Martin Guettler, Resident Director of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Ghana (FES Ghana). The high-level discussion centered on deepening collaboration between the government and FES Ghana in the areas of women’s empowerment, youth development, and inclusive governance. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang commended FES Ghana for its consistent efforts to improve livelihoods and expand opportunities for marginalized communities across Ghana. Highlighting FES Ghana’s achievements in promoting women’s leadership, the Vice President encouraged the organization to further broaden its training and mentorship programmes, equipping more women with the skills and confidence to participate fully in governance and public service. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang pointed to the passage of Ghana’s Affirmative Action legislation as a significant step forward, but emphasized that the focus must now shift to effective implementation to ensure tangible outcomes. The meeting also stressed the importance of investing in Ghana’s youth through leadership initiatives, practical skills training, and confidence-building. The Vice President noted that the country’s large youth population represents both great potential and unique challenges, making it crucial to empower young people for national development. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration aimed at driving inclusion, nurturing leadership, and advancing social progress. Prof. Opoku-Agyemang concluded by reiterating the government’s openness to partnerships that further these priorities and support Ghana’s broader development goals. 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
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi Steps Down from Akonta Mining Case for Chairman Wontumi
Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi has announced his withdrawal as legal counsel for Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, in the ongoing criminal proceedings involving Akonta Mining Limited. In an interview with Citi News, Appiah-Kubi revealed that his decision to step down was prompted by concerns over how Criminal Court 4 has managed the case. He stated that he had officially filed a motion to withdraw, supported by an affidavit detailing his reasons for leaving the case. “My disappointment is in the attitude, record and the determination of the court so far in handling these matters before the court. I’m so totally disappointed, that’s why I am withdrawing,” Appiah-Kubi said, making clear that his withdrawal was motivated by dissatisfaction with the court’s conduct and approach. Addressing speculation, Appiah-Kubi dismissed any link between his withdrawal and ongoing plea bargaining negotiations involving Chairman Wontumi in the separate EXIM Bank fraud case. He emphasized that the Akonta Mining prosecution and the EXIM Bank matter are entirely distinct and unrelated. Appiah-Kubi further clarified that he remains a member of Chairman Wontumi’s legal team on all other issues, including the EXIM Bank case, and that his withdrawal applies exclusively to the Akonta Mining proceedings. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Minority Demands Probe Into Ministers of State Excellence Honours Over Bribery Allegations
The Minority Caucus in Parliament has called for the formation of an investigative committee to scrutinize the circumstances surrounding the recently held Ghana Ministers of State Excellence Honours, amid mounting concerns about the credibility of the awards scheme. The call was made on Thursday, June 11, by Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Habib Iddrisu, who argued on the floor of Parliament that a transparent and impartial inquiry is needed to clarify the selection processes, standards, and criteria for honourees. This demand comes after the Director-General of the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, alleged that he was asked to pay GH¢50,000 in exchange for receiving an award. The allegation has sparked widespread public debate and intensified calls for greater transparency and accountability in the administration of the honours. Iddrisu asserted that explanations provided so far have not addressed the core issues and stressed that Parliament has a duty to establish the facts behind the controversy. “Listening to the issue and the response given by the Minister for Government Communication, Mr. Speaker, if you can kindly direct to set up a committee to investigate the matter. A bipartisan committee should investigate this matter so that we know the criteria for the awards. We deserve the truth,” he said. The Minority’s call for a bipartisan probe reflects growing concerns in and outside Parliament over the integrity of the awards programme and aims to restore public confidence through a thorough investigation. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Begins Repatriation of Citizens Stranded in Côte d’Ivoire After Demolition Exercise
The Government of Ghana has initiated the repatriation of 327 nationals left stranded in Côte d’Ivoire following a demolition exercise in the Port Bouët Municipality of Abidjan. The operation, which destroyed homes and livelihoods, compelled Ghanaian authorities to act swiftly in support of their displaced citizens. In a press release dated Thursday, June 12, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that 228 affected Ghanaians had already been safely returned to Ghana as of June 11, with arrangements finalized for the remaining 99 to arrive on June 12. The government’s intervention is aimed at providing immediate relief and facilitating the reintegration of those impacted by the demolition. The Ministry explained that all 327 Ghanaians had been living in the demolished communities and, after losing their homes and sources of income, found themselves without the means to secure alternative accommodation in Côte d’Ivoire. Looking beyond repatriation, Ghana is also advocating for compensation for the victims. According to the Ministry, Ivorian authorities have expressed a willingness to compensate those affected, and Ghana’s diplomatic mission in Abidjan is actively engaged to ensure the promised support is delivered. The Foreign Affairs Ministry assured that it will continue to work closely with its counterparts in Côte d’Ivoire to coordinate the compensation process and address any ongoing concerns about the welfare of the repatriated citizens. Source: Apexnewsgh.com