A delegation from the United Kingdom High Commission, focused on Northern Ghana, met with Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, on Friday March 7, 2025, to discuss development priorities, security collaboration, and ongoing efforts to resolve the Bawku conflict.
Led by Paul Edward, Senior Counselor to the UK High Commission, the delegation emphasized the importance of direct engagement with local stakeholders to shape effective policies.
“We cannot fully understand Northern Ghana without visiting and listening to those on the ground,” Edward stated, adding that such dialogues ensure UK initiatives “move in the right direction.”
During the meeting, the Regional Planning Officer and acting Coordinating Director, Ibrahim Abdul-Kadir Al-Hassan, outlined critical challenges facing the region. Key among them were youth unemployment, educational infrastructure gaps, and limited access to irrigation systems for year-round farming.
“Irrigation support would unlock agricultural opportunities for the youth and strengthen Ghana’s food security,” he stressed.
Additional needs included healthcare infrastructure, particularly upgrades to Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds, and improved access to modern farming tools.
In response, Edward highlighted existing UK-backed projects in the region, including security assistance to civil society groups and NGOs working to counter violent extremism.
He also cited the Afrikids initiative, which supports education and healthcare programs.
Edward further inquired how the UK could aid in resolving the protracted Bawku conflict, which has disrupted peace in the area.
Hon. Akamugri detailed the government’s multipronged approach to the crisis, including mediation efforts led by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.
He emphasized the role of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) in preempting violence through intelligence gathering but noted logistical shortfalls.
“Vehicles and surveillance drones would significantly enhance our capacity to monitor threats and prevent escalation,” the Minister said.
The discussions underscored mutual interest in deepening partnerships, with the UK delegation pledging to review the outlined priorities.
