Bongo: Mr. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to inclusive development, emphasizing that no Ghanaian would be excluded from the country's development agenda. He stated that the government is focused on investing in critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and social protection to ensure that development reaches every community nationwide.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister reiterated this commitment during an address at the regional celebration of the 69th Ghana Independence Day in Bongo, themed 'Building Prosperity, Restoring Hope.' Mr. Akamugri explained that the government, led by John Dramani Mahama, is dedicated to restoring confidence in governance, strengthening the national economy, and expanding opportunities for citizens. He emphasized, "Our collective goal remains clear: to ensure that no district, no community, and indeed no citizen is left behind in Ghana's development journey."
The Minister outlined the government's development strategy, which focuses on improving agricultural productivity to enhance food security and increase farmer incomes, strengthening local economic development to create jobs for the youth, expanding access to quality healthcare and education, and improving critical infrastructure such as roads, potable water, and electricity. These interventions are already being implemented across the country as part of the government's agenda to rebuild public trust and stabilize the economy.
The Regional Minister stressed the importance of education as a tool for empowering young people and securing the nation's long-term development. He highlighted the government's commitment to public education, including sustained funding for the Free Senior High School Programme, which continues to expand access to secondary education for Ghanaian children. Mr. Akamugri mentioned that 94 educational infrastructure projects have been awarded in the Upper East Region under the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to address classroom deficits and phase out the double-track system gradually.
Additional initiatives include the introduction of the No-Fees-Stress Initiative and the distribution of over 666,000 sanitary pads to support girl-child education. Mr. Akamugri urged citizens to support government efforts by promoting unity, discipline, and patriotism, noting that development requires the collective effort of traditional authorities, religious leaders, civil society, the private sector, and all citizens.
He commended security agencies for maintaining peace and stability in the region and encouraged communities to preserve the peaceful coexistence that the Upper East Region is known for. The Minister also urged students to focus on their education, cautioning against engaging in riots and advising them to resolve grievances through dialogue and established channels. He called on students to work hard to contribute to national development.
Ghana gained independence on March 6, 1957, becoming the first sub-Saharan African country to break free from colonial rule.