Former President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to fast-tracking development in the Upper West Region during his ongoing “Thank You” tour. Addressing enthusiastic supporters and traditional leaders, Mr. Mahama pledged that the region will be a key beneficiary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s proposed “Big Push” agenda and other priority policies outlined in the party’s 2024 manifesto.
In his speech, Mr. Mahama acknowledged the trust and support of the people noting that under his leadership, stabilizing the economy had taken center stage.
He credited the gradual improvement of the cedi and a reduction in market prices to prudent fiscal measures introduced in the March budget. He commended the finance minister and the governor of the Bank of Ghana for their roles in the economic turnaround, with expectations of even more positive outcomes in the upcoming mid-year budget review.
Major Infrastructure Commitments
The former president outlined an ambitious infrastructure plan for the Upper West Region, emphasizing that construction works under the Big Push Infrastructure Programme would soon commence.
He noted that key routes such as the Wa–Tumu–Bolgatanga Trunk Road and the Techiman–Wechiau–Bole–Wa–Tamalé Corridor and sections of the Sawla road would be resurfaced to enhance connectivity with the Savannah and Northern regions.
He said these roads will not only enhance trade and transport, but they will also stimulate cross-border business and revive economic activity.
Roads in Wa East, Nadowli, Daffiama-Busie-Issa, and Sissala East Districts will also be rehabilitated to improve access to markets, health facilities, and schools.
Mr. Mahama assured residents that GH¢14 billion had been earmarked for the Big Push program in 2025, and that contractors would receive 15% mobilization and timely payments upon submission of project certificates.
Agricultural Transformation
Under the proposed “Feed Ghana” and Agriculture for Wealth Creation Agenda, Mr. Mahama stated that the Upper West Region would be positioned as a key agricultural hub. He announced plans to construct and rehabilitate small- and medium-scale irrigation dams in Sissala, Lambussie, and Wa East, including support for dry-season farming. He said the region will also benefit from subsidized fertilizers, improved seeds, mechanization services, warehouses, and cold storage facilities to minimize post-harvest losses.
He further revealed that the long-awaited Farmer Service Center in Gwollu, promised in 2016, would finally be operationalized.
