The Member of Parliament (MP) for the Bawku Central Constituency, Mr. Adamu Daramani Sakande with support from E-Toys and More, is to construct an Ultra Modern Information Communication Technology (ICT) Centre for some schools within the municipality.
The facility which will be located within the Winamzua Cluster of Schools when completed will also serve as an Information Resource Centre for schools in the Bawku Central Constituency.
It will also facilitate ICT training and development for interested residents.
Speaking to journalists in Bawku, Mr. Sakande said apart from the external support from E-Toys and More, the facility valued at about GHc20,000 would be funded from his share of the District Assembly Common Fund.
He bemoaned the lack of a well resourced ICT centre in the Bawku Municipality and the inability of schools there to establish their own computer laboratories, which he explained was hindering the teaching and learning of ICT at the junior and senior high school levels.
He expressed the hope that the completion of the project would contribute greatly to the improvement of ICT education in the area.
In a related development, E-Toys and More also donated some teaching and learning materials to the St. Anthony Kindergarten.
Tuesday 25 January 2011
CPP, PNC LEADERSHIP TOLD TO SHUN PAROCHIALISM (PAGE 12, JAN 25, 2011)
THE National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Kwabena Adjei, has stated that members of the party who may foment trouble against the progressive trend of affairs within the party will not be spared.
He said unhealthy rivalry between aspirants would not be tolerated, adding that there was the need for party activists to sacrifice rather than beg for favours in respect of votes because those who looked for favours eventually lost respect and dignity.
Dr Adjei was addressing a regional rally to mark the second anniversary celebration of the coming into power of the Mills’ Administration at Ho at the weekend.
He stressed the need for party activists who were aggrieved with their members of parliament and municipal and district chief executives to resolve their differences in a friendly manner.
A member of the Council of State, Dr Bernard Glover, asked members of the party to come out boldly to defend its tenets to justify the declaration of the action year.
The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr Joe Gidisu, outlined the road projects for the region, stating that more than enough funds had been mobilised to start the Eastern Corridor road by the second quarter of the year.
He disclosed that four contractors were expected to undertake the job, adding that re-engineering of the Aflao dual carriageway had been awarded and pleaded with the people to exercise restraint since the party would reciprocate efforts of the electorate.
The General Secretary of the party, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia said the party would begin to select candidates within the first quarter of the year after which primaries for members of parliament would be held to be followed by the election of a flag bearer by the end of the year.
Mr Nketia urged party activists to be faithful to the constitution of the party.
The Deputy General Secretary, Mr Kofi Adams, said the victory of the party in the last elections was important because it reversed the suffering and deprivation of majority of the people.
He, therefore, said everybody had a role to play in order to oil the victory machine with a greater sense of unity of purpose.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr Joseph Amenowode, said the NDC would not depart from its promises to the people, adding that education is the cornerstone of development of the region.
The Regional Chairman, Mr Kwasi Aboagye, said there were a lot of good things to be delivered this year under the action year.
He said unhealthy rivalry between aspirants would not be tolerated, adding that there was the need for party activists to sacrifice rather than beg for favours in respect of votes because those who looked for favours eventually lost respect and dignity.
Dr Adjei was addressing a regional rally to mark the second anniversary celebration of the coming into power of the Mills’ Administration at Ho at the weekend.
He stressed the need for party activists who were aggrieved with their members of parliament and municipal and district chief executives to resolve their differences in a friendly manner.
A member of the Council of State, Dr Bernard Glover, asked members of the party to come out boldly to defend its tenets to justify the declaration of the action year.
The Minister of Roads and Highways, Mr Joe Gidisu, outlined the road projects for the region, stating that more than enough funds had been mobilised to start the Eastern Corridor road by the second quarter of the year.
He disclosed that four contractors were expected to undertake the job, adding that re-engineering of the Aflao dual carriageway had been awarded and pleaded with the people to exercise restraint since the party would reciprocate efforts of the electorate.
The General Secretary of the party, Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia said the party would begin to select candidates within the first quarter of the year after which primaries for members of parliament would be held to be followed by the election of a flag bearer by the end of the year.
Mr Nketia urged party activists to be faithful to the constitution of the party.
The Deputy General Secretary, Mr Kofi Adams, said the victory of the party in the last elections was important because it reversed the suffering and deprivation of majority of the people.
He, therefore, said everybody had a role to play in order to oil the victory machine with a greater sense of unity of purpose.
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr Joseph Amenowode, said the NDC would not depart from its promises to the people, adding that education is the cornerstone of development of the region.
The Regional Chairman, Mr Kwasi Aboagye, said there were a lot of good things to be delivered this year under the action year.
Friday 21 January 2011
APPOINT EXPERIENCED ASSEMBLY MEMBERS AS DCEs (PAGE 12, JAN 21, 2011)
THE Assembly member of the Zorko –Kanga electoral area in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region, Alexis Ayamdor has proposed that experienced assembly members who have worked with the various District Assemblies be selected to become District Chief Executives (DCEs).
Mr. Ayamdor, who retained the seat at the last District Level election, stated in an interview that experienced assembly members when elected as DCEs stood a much better chance of addressing issues relating to development of the Assemblies.
According to him, when experienced persons were appointed to such positions, they would be better placed to deliver since such persons had acquired some level of experience and were more versatile when it comes to the running the administration of the District Assemblies than people who were elected to represent their respective assemblies and had no requisite experiences.
He pointed out that the current practice where the President appointed people to head District Assemblies was not helping the development of the districts and suggested that experienced assembly members should rather be made to contest for the position of DCEs.
This, he indicated, would help encourage assembly members to work harder to increase the output of the assemblies and also make the DCE-elect also become more accountable to the electorate.
Touching on the just ended district level elections, Mr. Ayamdor said despite the numerous public awareness and education, many eligible voters did not show much interest in the electoral process, hence the need to put in place corrective measures to avert such flaws in future elections.
Mr. Ayamdor, who retained the seat at the last District Level election, stated in an interview that experienced assembly members when elected as DCEs stood a much better chance of addressing issues relating to development of the Assemblies.
According to him, when experienced persons were appointed to such positions, they would be better placed to deliver since such persons had acquired some level of experience and were more versatile when it comes to the running the administration of the District Assemblies than people who were elected to represent their respective assemblies and had no requisite experiences.
He pointed out that the current practice where the President appointed people to head District Assemblies was not helping the development of the districts and suggested that experienced assembly members should rather be made to contest for the position of DCEs.
This, he indicated, would help encourage assembly members to work harder to increase the output of the assemblies and also make the DCE-elect also become more accountable to the electorate.
Touching on the just ended district level elections, Mr. Ayamdor said despite the numerous public awareness and education, many eligible voters did not show much interest in the electoral process, hence the need to put in place corrective measures to avert such flaws in future elections.
UPPER EAST BEC CANDIDATES DENIED ADMISSION TO SHSs (PAGE 11, JAN 21, 2011)
THE Headmaster of Bolgatanga Senior High School in the Upper East Region, Mr Didacus Afegra has disclosed that most students in the region who wrote last year’s Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) have been denied admission into second cycle schools due to their inability to write “Gurune” as their examinable subject.
Mr Afegra who said this in an interview in Bolgatanga described the situation as worrying.
He explained that all over the country, the BECE candidates wrote more than one elective subject out of which the best grades in any of the electives was selected and used for grading and placement purposes.
Mr Afegra, who doubles as the Regional Chairman of BONABOTO, a union of residents of Bolgatanga, Nabdam, Bongo and Tongo communities, pointed out that candidates in most second cycle institutions across the region wrote only one elective subject and that those who failed in this elective subject were not placed into senior high schools and technical institutions.
He, therefore, appealed to the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo to use his good offices to facilitate the approval and the introduction of the “Gurune Language” as an examinable subject at the final BECE by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC).
Mr Afegra said despite several complaints and appeals to the authorities concerned, nothing concrete had been done. The situation, he lamented, had given rise to youth migration down south since the desire of most students in the region was to get admission to well- endowed second cycle schools across the country.
He, however, stressed the urgent need for the GES and the WAEC to take a quick look at the situation and provide a permanent solution to it to ensure enrolment of more students into the second cycle schools.
He stressed that students in the Gurune speaking areas must be given the chance and necessary encouragement to study the “Gurune language” which was a core component of the culture of the people in the area.
According to him, the region possessed enough reading materials and trained teachers who were capable of teaching the children to pass the examination at the BECE level.
Mr Afegra, however, expressed his outfit’s preparedness in ensuring that the Gurune language was approved for the benefit of students in the region and said this demanded the support of all and sundry.
Mr Afegra who said this in an interview in Bolgatanga described the situation as worrying.
He explained that all over the country, the BECE candidates wrote more than one elective subject out of which the best grades in any of the electives was selected and used for grading and placement purposes.
Mr Afegra, who doubles as the Regional Chairman of BONABOTO, a union of residents of Bolgatanga, Nabdam, Bongo and Tongo communities, pointed out that candidates in most second cycle institutions across the region wrote only one elective subject and that those who failed in this elective subject were not placed into senior high schools and technical institutions.
He, therefore, appealed to the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo to use his good offices to facilitate the approval and the introduction of the “Gurune Language” as an examinable subject at the final BECE by the Ghana Education Service (GES) and the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC).
Mr Afegra said despite several complaints and appeals to the authorities concerned, nothing concrete had been done. The situation, he lamented, had given rise to youth migration down south since the desire of most students in the region was to get admission to well- endowed second cycle schools across the country.
He, however, stressed the urgent need for the GES and the WAEC to take a quick look at the situation and provide a permanent solution to it to ensure enrolment of more students into the second cycle schools.
He stressed that students in the Gurune speaking areas must be given the chance and necessary encouragement to study the “Gurune language” which was a core component of the culture of the people in the area.
According to him, the region possessed enough reading materials and trained teachers who were capable of teaching the children to pass the examination at the BECE level.
Mr Afegra, however, expressed his outfit’s preparedness in ensuring that the Gurune language was approved for the benefit of students in the region and said this demanded the support of all and sundry.
Wednesday 19 January 2011
DELIVER ON YOUR MANDATE...Rev Nagba urges churches (PAGE 46, JAN 20, 2011)
THE Chairperson of the newly created Upper Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rev. Esmond Wasau Nagba, has urged churches to focus on their core business of evangelism, discipleship and church growth in order to draw more people to God.
Rev. Esmond Wasau Nagba made the call during an induction service for the new Presbytery Clerk, Rev. Martin Lamisi Sebire, at the Peniel Congregation of the PCG in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region.
Speaking on the theme: “Chosen for the mission of the Father,” Rev. Nagba, said orthodox churches in the country would regain their past glories only if they shunned negative attitudes and demonstrated God’s love through commitment and dedicated services.
The induction service brought together members of the newly created Upper Presbytery.
The Upper Presbytery was carved out of the Northern Presbytery and has Bolgatanga as its main station. It is the 16th Presbytery within the General Assembly of the PCG. It also covers other five districts of northern Ghana, including Wa, Bawku, Gambaga and Garu Tempane.
In his sermon, Rev. Nagba expressed concern about the way the orthodox churches had veered from their core mission and mandate of communicating God’s word to unbelievers through evangelism.
He said in the past, people were attached to the orthodox churches due to the exemplary Christian lifestyles portrayed by its members but “the situation today is nothing to write home about”.
He stressed the need for a greater attitudinal change among the faithful to redeem their lost image.
Rev. Nagba stated that churches must not only preach the good news, but they should also affirm it by the attitude and conduct of their members towards God and mankind.
He called on churches to devote their time to God, charge their congregations to do away with backbiting and the “pull him down” attitude to ensure their growth, both physically and spiritually.
Rev. Nagba also challenged them with the responsibility of sharing God’s word with unbelievers wherever they found themselves.
While inducting Rev. Lamisi Sabire into office, Rev. Nagba tasked the congregants to co-operate with him to ensure his effective administration.
In his acceptance speech, Rev. Lamisi Sebire expressed gratitude to the church for the confidence reposed in him and pledged his commitment to discharge his official duties with humility, faithfulness and obedience to the service of God and the church.
Rev. Esmond Wasau Nagba made the call during an induction service for the new Presbytery Clerk, Rev. Martin Lamisi Sebire, at the Peniel Congregation of the PCG in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region.
Speaking on the theme: “Chosen for the mission of the Father,” Rev. Nagba, said orthodox churches in the country would regain their past glories only if they shunned negative attitudes and demonstrated God’s love through commitment and dedicated services.
The induction service brought together members of the newly created Upper Presbytery.
The Upper Presbytery was carved out of the Northern Presbytery and has Bolgatanga as its main station. It is the 16th Presbytery within the General Assembly of the PCG. It also covers other five districts of northern Ghana, including Wa, Bawku, Gambaga and Garu Tempane.
In his sermon, Rev. Nagba expressed concern about the way the orthodox churches had veered from their core mission and mandate of communicating God’s word to unbelievers through evangelism.
He said in the past, people were attached to the orthodox churches due to the exemplary Christian lifestyles portrayed by its members but “the situation today is nothing to write home about”.
He stressed the need for a greater attitudinal change among the faithful to redeem their lost image.
Rev. Nagba stated that churches must not only preach the good news, but they should also affirm it by the attitude and conduct of their members towards God and mankind.
He called on churches to devote their time to God, charge their congregations to do away with backbiting and the “pull him down” attitude to ensure their growth, both physically and spiritually.
Rev. Nagba also challenged them with the responsibility of sharing God’s word with unbelievers wherever they found themselves.
While inducting Rev. Lamisi Sabire into office, Rev. Nagba tasked the congregants to co-operate with him to ensure his effective administration.
In his acceptance speech, Rev. Lamisi Sebire expressed gratitude to the church for the confidence reposed in him and pledged his commitment to discharge his official duties with humility, faithfulness and obedience to the service of God and the church.
UPPER EAST PNC CONDEMNS IMC (PAGE 12, JAN 19, 2011)
THE Upper East regional branch of the Peoples National Convention (PNC) has expressed disappointment at the recent impasse and power struggle within the party.
Speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic, the Regional Secretary of the party, Mr Henry Fatchu, said the entire regional and constituency executives of the party were let down by the quest of some people within the party to take over the administration of the party.
The PNC is witnessing some leadership crisis after some aggrieved members under the guise of an Interim Management Committee (IMC) moved to take charge of affairs of the party from the existing national executives.
But such actions, Mr Fatchu said, smacked of a disregard for party structures and disrespect for all the delegates who elected the national officers for a specified period of time.
“As a matter of fact, we as a branch of the party are disassociating our region from their action and have no respect whatsoever for such so-called interim management committee and will not bow to any instructions or dictates from them,” the Regional Secretary said.
He described as ironical the fact that those challenging the authority of the current leadership of the party had no roots but were out there to simply “make empty noise because they have been induced by others only to ridicule the party.”
Mr Fatchu challenged the agitators, stressing that “if they so matter towards the rebuilding of the party, then they should win seats from their constituencies to strengthen the party in Parliament than their individualistic and self seeking interests.”
“As a region, we are pledging our support for the duly elected national officers as our only legally mandated leaders, and therefore, calling on them to work hard and also restructure the party by organising early congress to shape the party in preparedness for the 2012 general elections,” he said.
He said the contribution of Dr Edward Mahama towards the building of the party over the years was incomparable and that the party should regard him as a hero and a great leader who strove to work for the party at all times.
In a related development, the Regional Chairman of the PNC, Alhaji Baba Mohammed, has urged followers of the party to remain calm in the face of the recent wrangling within the party.
Speaking to the Daily Graphic in Bolgatanga, Alhaji Mohammed described the wrangling as a petty family squabble that would soon be resolved.
He gave the assurance that everything would soon be put to rest. The PNC enjoys good support in the Bolgatanga Constituency, which has seen the party win the parliamentary seat in the 2000 and 2004 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with the Daily Graphic, the Regional Secretary of the party, Mr Henry Fatchu, said the entire regional and constituency executives of the party were let down by the quest of some people within the party to take over the administration of the party.
The PNC is witnessing some leadership crisis after some aggrieved members under the guise of an Interim Management Committee (IMC) moved to take charge of affairs of the party from the existing national executives.
But such actions, Mr Fatchu said, smacked of a disregard for party structures and disrespect for all the delegates who elected the national officers for a specified period of time.
“As a matter of fact, we as a branch of the party are disassociating our region from their action and have no respect whatsoever for such so-called interim management committee and will not bow to any instructions or dictates from them,” the Regional Secretary said.
He described as ironical the fact that those challenging the authority of the current leadership of the party had no roots but were out there to simply “make empty noise because they have been induced by others only to ridicule the party.”
Mr Fatchu challenged the agitators, stressing that “if they so matter towards the rebuilding of the party, then they should win seats from their constituencies to strengthen the party in Parliament than their individualistic and self seeking interests.”
“As a region, we are pledging our support for the duly elected national officers as our only legally mandated leaders, and therefore, calling on them to work hard and also restructure the party by organising early congress to shape the party in preparedness for the 2012 general elections,” he said.
He said the contribution of Dr Edward Mahama towards the building of the party over the years was incomparable and that the party should regard him as a hero and a great leader who strove to work for the party at all times.
In a related development, the Regional Chairman of the PNC, Alhaji Baba Mohammed, has urged followers of the party to remain calm in the face of the recent wrangling within the party.
Speaking to the Daily Graphic in Bolgatanga, Alhaji Mohammed described the wrangling as a petty family squabble that would soon be resolved.
He gave the assurance that everything would soon be put to rest. The PNC enjoys good support in the Bolgatanga Constituency, which has seen the party win the parliamentary seat in the 2000 and 2004 general elections.
Monday 17 January 2011
ALCOHOL ABUSE WORRIES BUILSA TRADITIONAL COUNCIL (PAGE 35, JAN 17, 2011)
THE Builsa Traditional Council in the Upper East Region is deeply worried at the rising incidence of alcoholism in the area.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
ALCOHOL ABUSE WORRIES BUILSA TRADITIONAL COUNCIL (PAGE 35, JAN 17, 2011)
THE Builsa Traditional Council in the Upper East Region is deeply worried at the rising incidence of alcoholism in the area.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
ALCOHOL ABUSE WORRIES BUILSA TRADITIONAL COUNCIL (PAGE 35, JAN 17, 2011)
THE Builsa Traditional Council in the Upper East Region is deeply worried at the rising incidence of alcoholism in the area.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
It has, therefore, urged the youth to eschew the habit of excessive drinking and rather venture into more profitable ventures such as agriculture.
The district has, for the past four years, produced farmers who have won national awards during the National Farmers Day celebrations, and the council believes many more potential best farmers could emerge from the area if only the youth will put their efforts into that venture.
“We, the chiefs, wish to urge the youth who are the future leaders to put an end to alcohol consumption because it does not speak well of us and it does no honour to our ancestors,” the council stressed.
The Regent of Sandema and acting Paramount Chief of Builsa, Nansuing Nab Alex Azantilow, said this at the recent annual Feok Festival of the chiefs and people of Builsa at Sandema.
The theme for the celebration, which is aimed at giving thanks to the ancestors of the area for a prosperous year, was: “Harnessing the natural resources of Builsa for better development.”
The regent commended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for assisting livestock farmers in the area with a number of sheep, aimed at improving the local livestock breed.
He called for an enhancement in the package to ensure that many more people benefited from that facility.
Nansuing Azantilow commended the government for selecting Builsa to benefit from improved health facilities, adding that it would bring better health care services to the doorsteps of the people.
He stressed that when the people were strong, they would produce more food to feed themselves and the rest of the country.
Nansuing Azantilow, however, bemoaned the fact that in spite of the contributions of Builsa to the national cause such as enlisting many citizens from the area into the Gold Coast Armed Forces and later the British Army to fight in the first and second world wars, little had been done to honour those gallant men who lost their lives in the struggle.
He, therefore, called for the construction of a befitting veterans’ halls as well as the building of a modern police station in memory of all those who lost their lives.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, said the government was aware of the Builsa District’s potential and was, therefore, poised to open up the area to promote socio-economic activities that would help reduce poverty among the people.
He said under a DANIDA, funded programme, approval had been given for the construction of a bridge over River Sisilii at Doninga to link the region with the Upper West as an alternate and shorter route to Wa.
The regent reassured the people that the Chuchuliga-Sandema road, which had been a major concern of the people for a very long time, had been repackaged and awarded to a competent contractor for rehabilitation.
The Builsa District Chief Executive, Mr Norbert Awulley, earlier in a welcoming address, said the assembly was working out a strategy to formalise the operations of a number of small scale miners (galamsey operators) in the district.
He said the miners would be equipped with the requisite scientific knowledge, equipment and skills and their operations streamlined so that their activities would not adversely affect the environment.
LET THE WIDOWS HAVE THEIR RIGHTS (PAGE 35, JAN 17, 2011)
IN September, 2010, I wrote an article on some dehumanising culturally related violence perpetrated against women in the form of widowhood rights.
Not long afterwards, Ms Gifty Anti hosted a GTV Breakfast Show programme during which she featured the Head of the Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM), Madam Betty Ayagiba, as well as a victim of the abuse and a lawyer, who discussed the practice, which is one of the worst forms of violence against women.
In the course of the discussion, a female viewer called in and bluntly accused the victim as being a witch and responsible for many blemishes in the family.
From the countenance of the hostess and other panel members, I could see that they were livid and astonished at the accusation levelled against the innocent old lady, a victim of the abuse who was on the panel.
In some parts of the Upper East Region, women who lose their husbands are made to undergo some dehumanising cultural practices which can sometimes be very injurious. Those who refuse to do so are labelled as witches and are haunted.
I caught up with the Director of WOM, Madam Betty Ayagiba, to find out from her how they were dealing with the deep-rooted problem and some of the challenges they faced.
One major challenge she mentioned was the fact that many people were still denying the fact that widows were made to go through those practices. She said people still felt culture must be maintained so women should still practise the negative cultural practices.
Another major challenge Madam Ayagiba raised was the fact that some of the women did not open up completely or did not speak the truth about what they were going through and ended up with wrong advice or intervention.
As an NGO in the forefront of change, what is WOM doing? In answer to that question, Madam Ayagiba said through the support of other funding agencies such as ActionAid Ghana and RAVI, a number of programmes such as sensitisation and skills acquisition training had been done to equip the victims and better integrate them into the society.
She cited the instance where with the support of ActionAid Ghana and Ravi, five communities had written resolutions and signed, opting to stop the negative cultural practices meted out to widows shortly after losing their husbands.
The communities are Sumbrungu, Gambigo, Anateem, Zuarungu and Durongo, all in the Bolgatanga Municipality. The chiefs and elders in communities such as Kongo in the Talensi-Nabdam District have issued a fiat stopping the maltreatment of widows.
Madam Ayagiba added that nowadays, chiefs, especially those in the Talensi-Nabdam District, visited funeral grounds to see to it that widows were not stripped naked.
“We are glad that men have added their voices that the widows should not go through some of the unnecessary abuses,” she said.
Madam Ayagiba, however, contended that more sensitisation programmes ought to be held throughout the region to get more women liberated from those callous acts.
On the economic empowerment programme offered the women, Madam Ayagiba said they preached about human rights violations and also tried to address the immediate needs of the women.
She stated that in communities such as Duusi, Datuko and Sakote, widows groups had grinding mills to facilitate the empowerment process.
Madam Ayagiba said through the Canadian initiative support for small businesses, a grinding mill had been acquired for the Bukere community widows group after ActionAid Ghana had helped to put up a structure.
“With support from other donors, WOM has provided grinding mills for 10 groups in other communities,” she said.
Another area the organisation has found itself in terms of economic empowerment is in livestock breeding.
Madam Ayagiba said WOM had supported 15 groups to rear and own animals. She said the organisation had also trained more than 500 women to weave modern straw baskets and they exported between 3,000 and 5,000 to the United States of America and Denmark every year.
Madam Ayagiba said WOM processed quality white shea butter pomade for the market and had attended many national and international trade fairs to sell its products.
She added that they had currently embarked on a 200-acre mango plantation at Sakote in the Talensi Nabdam District to support the women.
“However, one major challenge is lack of funds to address the needs of widows, orphans and communities, which are all major forms of violence against women and the organisation will welcome any support in that direction,” she stressed.
Madam Ayagiba did not end without making some recommendations.
In the first place, she wanted the government and NGOs to work in a concretised manner to raise awareness in communities on traditional practices and policies which discriminated against women.
“Again, chiefs and other traditional leaders must take the lead in promoting advocacy for the elimination of negative widowhood practices,” Madam Ayagiba said.
Madam Ayagiba added “Women should also stand up and fight for what is right for them otherwise the suffering will continue and lastly, the whole judicial system, the police, and agencies of state such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) must work as a team to deal with issues of human rights abuse, especially against women.
It is only through effective measures that the debilitating effects of such abuses can be solved and help the nation to take a giant step forward to accelerate progress at achieving the third of the Millennium Development Goals which places emphasis on promoting gender equity and women's economic empowerment”.
Not long afterwards, Ms Gifty Anti hosted a GTV Breakfast Show programme during which she featured the Head of the Widows and Orphans Movement (WOM), Madam Betty Ayagiba, as well as a victim of the abuse and a lawyer, who discussed the practice, which is one of the worst forms of violence against women.
In the course of the discussion, a female viewer called in and bluntly accused the victim as being a witch and responsible for many blemishes in the family.
From the countenance of the hostess and other panel members, I could see that they were livid and astonished at the accusation levelled against the innocent old lady, a victim of the abuse who was on the panel.
In some parts of the Upper East Region, women who lose their husbands are made to undergo some dehumanising cultural practices which can sometimes be very injurious. Those who refuse to do so are labelled as witches and are haunted.
I caught up with the Director of WOM, Madam Betty Ayagiba, to find out from her how they were dealing with the deep-rooted problem and some of the challenges they faced.
One major challenge she mentioned was the fact that many people were still denying the fact that widows were made to go through those practices. She said people still felt culture must be maintained so women should still practise the negative cultural practices.
Another major challenge Madam Ayagiba raised was the fact that some of the women did not open up completely or did not speak the truth about what they were going through and ended up with wrong advice or intervention.
As an NGO in the forefront of change, what is WOM doing? In answer to that question, Madam Ayagiba said through the support of other funding agencies such as ActionAid Ghana and RAVI, a number of programmes such as sensitisation and skills acquisition training had been done to equip the victims and better integrate them into the society.
She cited the instance where with the support of ActionAid Ghana and Ravi, five communities had written resolutions and signed, opting to stop the negative cultural practices meted out to widows shortly after losing their husbands.
The communities are Sumbrungu, Gambigo, Anateem, Zuarungu and Durongo, all in the Bolgatanga Municipality. The chiefs and elders in communities such as Kongo in the Talensi-Nabdam District have issued a fiat stopping the maltreatment of widows.
Madam Ayagiba added that nowadays, chiefs, especially those in the Talensi-Nabdam District, visited funeral grounds to see to it that widows were not stripped naked.
“We are glad that men have added their voices that the widows should not go through some of the unnecessary abuses,” she said.
Madam Ayagiba, however, contended that more sensitisation programmes ought to be held throughout the region to get more women liberated from those callous acts.
On the economic empowerment programme offered the women, Madam Ayagiba said they preached about human rights violations and also tried to address the immediate needs of the women.
She stated that in communities such as Duusi, Datuko and Sakote, widows groups had grinding mills to facilitate the empowerment process.
Madam Ayagiba said through the Canadian initiative support for small businesses, a grinding mill had been acquired for the Bukere community widows group after ActionAid Ghana had helped to put up a structure.
“With support from other donors, WOM has provided grinding mills for 10 groups in other communities,” she said.
Another area the organisation has found itself in terms of economic empowerment is in livestock breeding.
Madam Ayagiba said WOM had supported 15 groups to rear and own animals. She said the organisation had also trained more than 500 women to weave modern straw baskets and they exported between 3,000 and 5,000 to the United States of America and Denmark every year.
Madam Ayagiba said WOM processed quality white shea butter pomade for the market and had attended many national and international trade fairs to sell its products.
She added that they had currently embarked on a 200-acre mango plantation at Sakote in the Talensi Nabdam District to support the women.
“However, one major challenge is lack of funds to address the needs of widows, orphans and communities, which are all major forms of violence against women and the organisation will welcome any support in that direction,” she stressed.
Madam Ayagiba did not end without making some recommendations.
In the first place, she wanted the government and NGOs to work in a concretised manner to raise awareness in communities on traditional practices and policies which discriminated against women.
“Again, chiefs and other traditional leaders must take the lead in promoting advocacy for the elimination of negative widowhood practices,” Madam Ayagiba said.
Madam Ayagiba added “Women should also stand up and fight for what is right for them otherwise the suffering will continue and lastly, the whole judicial system, the police, and agencies of state such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) must work as a team to deal with issues of human rights abuse, especially against women.
It is only through effective measures that the debilitating effects of such abuses can be solved and help the nation to take a giant step forward to accelerate progress at achieving the third of the Millennium Development Goals which places emphasis on promoting gender equity and women's economic empowerment”.
BAWKU NPP CHAIRMAN PASSES AWAY (PAGE 13, JAN 17, 2011)
THE New Patriotic Party (NPP) and its followers in the Bawku Municipality and other people in the Upper East Region are mourning the death of the Bawku Constituency Chairman of the party, Alhaji Abdul Malik Imoro Salifu.
Alhaji Salifu, 50, died in his home in Bawku on Saturday, January 15, 2011. He left behind five children and a wife.
Some sympathisers interviewed in Bawku said the incident had come as a big surprise because they had seen him hale and hearty the previous day.
Alhaji Salifu was popularly referred to as “Bawku Governor” by many of the youth in the area, probably because of his “majestic” posture and appearance at public functions and his ability to attain his objectives, no matter the situation or obstacles.
The late Alhaji spent most of his adult life in London doing business and returned home to settle, when his father, Imoro Salifu, died in 2002.
His father was a regional commissioner in the Third Republic under Dr Hilla Liman’s Administration from 1979 to 1981.
He later became the Upper East Regional Chairman of the NPP from 1992 till he died in 2002.
The MP for Bawku Central, Mr. Adamu Dramani Sekande, in a telephone interview, expressed shock at the death of the constituency chairman of the NPP.
He praised Alhaji Malik for his leadership role in the branch of the party in the area.
Alahji Malik Salifu has since been buried in line with Islamic custom.
Alhaji Salifu, 50, died in his home in Bawku on Saturday, January 15, 2011. He left behind five children and a wife.
Some sympathisers interviewed in Bawku said the incident had come as a big surprise because they had seen him hale and hearty the previous day.
Alhaji Salifu was popularly referred to as “Bawku Governor” by many of the youth in the area, probably because of his “majestic” posture and appearance at public functions and his ability to attain his objectives, no matter the situation or obstacles.
The late Alhaji spent most of his adult life in London doing business and returned home to settle, when his father, Imoro Salifu, died in 2002.
His father was a regional commissioner in the Third Republic under Dr Hilla Liman’s Administration from 1979 to 1981.
He later became the Upper East Regional Chairman of the NPP from 1992 till he died in 2002.
The MP for Bawku Central, Mr. Adamu Dramani Sekande, in a telephone interview, expressed shock at the death of the constituency chairman of the NPP.
He praised Alhaji Malik for his leadership role in the branch of the party in the area.
Alahji Malik Salifu has since been buried in line with Islamic custom.
Thursday 13 January 2011
Pupils Educated On Their Rights, Responsibilities(J/G Wednesday January 12, 2011)
Pupils from the Bongo and Bawku West Districts who are members of Human Rights Clubs have held a series of activities to educate themselves on their rights and responsibilities.
The activities, which included a quiz, drama performances, poetry recitals and interactions with resource persons, were organised in connection with the International Human Rights Day, which fell on December 10, 2010.
The programme was organised by Human Rights Advisors working with the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) in the two districts and the Ghana Education Service (GES).
Ms Jillian Hess and Mr Stephen Mbarusimana, Human Rights Advisors for the Bongo and Bawku West districts respectively, described the session as very educative.
Mr Mbarusimana said apart from making the children aware of their rights, the interaction was also to build a society which was aware of their rights, as well as responsibilities.
Ms Hess for her part, hopeful that the knowledge shared among the pupils would be shared with others who could not attend the forum.
Students from the Bawku West District won the quiz on human rights issues. They were presented with a trophy and a certificate.
The activities, which included a quiz, drama performances, poetry recitals and interactions with resource persons, were organised in connection with the International Human Rights Day, which fell on December 10, 2010.
The programme was organised by Human Rights Advisors working with the Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) in the two districts and the Ghana Education Service (GES).
Ms Jillian Hess and Mr Stephen Mbarusimana, Human Rights Advisors for the Bongo and Bawku West districts respectively, described the session as very educative.
Mr Mbarusimana said apart from making the children aware of their rights, the interaction was also to build a society which was aware of their rights, as well as responsibilities.
Ms Hess for her part, hopeful that the knowledge shared among the pupils would be shared with others who could not attend the forum.
Students from the Bawku West District won the quiz on human rights issues. They were presented with a trophy and a certificate.
Tuesday 11 January 2011
MP FETES ORPHANS AT BONGO (PAGE 13, JAN 11, 2011)
The Member of Parliament for Bongo in the Upper East Region, Mr Albert Abongo, has cautioned community members and families against inhuman treatment of orphans and destitute in the society.
He said negative cultural practices such as accusing orphans as witches or evil and responsible for the death of their parents or as agents of some calamities must stop.
The MP gave the advice at a ceremony at Bongo when he feted orphans and the destitute at an orphanage managed by the Church of Christ.
Mr Abongo, accompanied by his wife and children, advised parents and the community to show love to such children since it was through no fault of theirs that they lost their parents.
“These children deserve our love and support at all times to enable them also grow to become responsible citizens,” he said.
He commended the Project Director of the Orphanage, Evangelist Adams Akurumolga, and his team of care givers for their dedication and care for children who otherwise would have been ostracised and encouraged them not to give up.
He also urged them to allow the children in their care to interact occasionally with other children in the community to help in their socialisation process.
Mr Abongo later donated a 21-inch colour television set and some assorted clothing to the inmates of the home for their upkeep.
The MP urged the managers of the home not to focus on only the spiritual development of the children but also concentrate on the provision of better nutrition and quality education for the inmates to enable them to grow to become responsible citizens.
Evangelist Akurumolga, who briefed the Daily Graphic, said the home was established in April, 2006, with the aim of helping children who lost their parents at birth and children of the destitute in the society.
He said the home, which started on a rented premises with four children, was facilitated by a missionary from the Hotsprings Village Church of Christ in the United States, Mr Donald Collins.
He said the home accommodated 30 children.
Evangelist Akurumolga said the home ran a school from nursery to primary six and was presently putting up a classroom block to support the education programme it ran.
He commended the Paramount Chief of Bongo, Naba Salifu Alemyarum, and the Department of Social Welfare for collaborating with the management to protect children in the community.
He appealed to other NGOs and philanthropists to come to the aid of the home and support its programmes.
He said negative cultural practices such as accusing orphans as witches or evil and responsible for the death of their parents or as agents of some calamities must stop.
The MP gave the advice at a ceremony at Bongo when he feted orphans and the destitute at an orphanage managed by the Church of Christ.
Mr Abongo, accompanied by his wife and children, advised parents and the community to show love to such children since it was through no fault of theirs that they lost their parents.
“These children deserve our love and support at all times to enable them also grow to become responsible citizens,” he said.
He commended the Project Director of the Orphanage, Evangelist Adams Akurumolga, and his team of care givers for their dedication and care for children who otherwise would have been ostracised and encouraged them not to give up.
He also urged them to allow the children in their care to interact occasionally with other children in the community to help in their socialisation process.
Mr Abongo later donated a 21-inch colour television set and some assorted clothing to the inmates of the home for their upkeep.
The MP urged the managers of the home not to focus on only the spiritual development of the children but also concentrate on the provision of better nutrition and quality education for the inmates to enable them to grow to become responsible citizens.
Evangelist Akurumolga, who briefed the Daily Graphic, said the home was established in April, 2006, with the aim of helping children who lost their parents at birth and children of the destitute in the society.
He said the home, which started on a rented premises with four children, was facilitated by a missionary from the Hotsprings Village Church of Christ in the United States, Mr Donald Collins.
He said the home accommodated 30 children.
Evangelist Akurumolga said the home ran a school from nursery to primary six and was presently putting up a classroom block to support the education programme it ran.
He commended the Paramount Chief of Bongo, Naba Salifu Alemyarum, and the Department of Social Welfare for collaborating with the management to protect children in the community.
He appealed to other NGOs and philanthropists to come to the aid of the home and support its programmes.
Friday 7 January 2011
REVIEW MODE OF APPOINTING ASSEMBLY HEADS — AHWOI (SPREAD, JAN 7, 2011)
A Lecturer at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Mr Kwamena Ahwoi, has suggested a review of the mode of appointment of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), for a better and more efficient decentralisation programme to take place.
He noted that with the passage of the L.I. 1961, which details the establishment of the departments of the district assemblies (DAs) and merger of agencies within some ministries, departments and agencies, there was the need to re-examine how MMDCEs were appointed to enable them to carry out their work effectively.
“Until we change the highly political requirement for appointing MMDCEs, the effective implementation of the L.I 1961 will be very difficult,” he said
Mr Ahwoi explained that since under L.I. 1961, MMDCEs would assume the position of the highest political authority in the districts, it was only good that the process of appointing them be such that it promoted harmony and enhanced the work of the assemblies.
Mr Ahwoi made the suggestion at a public lecture on Ghana's decentralised system in Bolgatanga on the topic “One Step Forward: The Significance of L.I. 1961 in Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies' Capacity”.
The lecture was organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development in conjunction with the Local Government Service (LGS) and attended by district chief executives, directors and staff of decentralised departments across the region.
L.I. 1961 was enacted to give effect to the Local Government Service Act of 2003 (Act 656), which provides the framework for administrative decentralisation and allocates functions, as well as human resources from central agencies, to those at the district level.
Mr Ahwoi explained that the objectives of the L.I. 1961 sought to operationalise the functioning of the decentralised departments at the district level as departments of the assemblies; to confirm the staff of the departments of the DAs as members of the LGS; and to ensure the operationalisation of the district composite budget system.
Mr Ahwoi said the L.I.1961 adopted a two-phase approach to the establishment of the departments of the district assemblies.
Under phase one of the L.I, departments which were not established by legislation were to be converted into departments of the district assemblies immediately, while under phase two, departments established by legislation would also convert into departments of the district assemblies when their enabling laws had been appropriately amended.
Mr Ahwoi noted that with the implementation of the LI 1961, the bureaucracy chain in the decentralisation process would be broken to allow for effective delivery at the various levels.
The Head of the Local Government Studies, Mr Akwasi Opong Fosu, said the necessary regulations needed to facilitate the commencement of the LI 1961 were being worked out and would soon be made public.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Mark Woyongo, said the passage of the L.I 1961 was the first step of creating the legislative framework and structures for the commencement of the decentralised departments to work under the ambit of assemblies.
He was, however, not pleased with the fact that the L.I. was silent on the role of regional co-ordinating councils and regional departments and expressed the hope that the issue would be addressed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the interface between the RCCs and the regional departments and those of the MMDAs and their departments to maintain harmony and effective administration.
He noted that with the passage of the L.I. 1961, which details the establishment of the departments of the district assemblies (DAs) and merger of agencies within some ministries, departments and agencies, there was the need to re-examine how MMDCEs were appointed to enable them to carry out their work effectively.
“Until we change the highly political requirement for appointing MMDCEs, the effective implementation of the L.I 1961 will be very difficult,” he said
Mr Ahwoi explained that since under L.I. 1961, MMDCEs would assume the position of the highest political authority in the districts, it was only good that the process of appointing them be such that it promoted harmony and enhanced the work of the assemblies.
Mr Ahwoi made the suggestion at a public lecture on Ghana's decentralised system in Bolgatanga on the topic “One Step Forward: The Significance of L.I. 1961 in Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies' Capacity”.
The lecture was organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development in conjunction with the Local Government Service (LGS) and attended by district chief executives, directors and staff of decentralised departments across the region.
L.I. 1961 was enacted to give effect to the Local Government Service Act of 2003 (Act 656), which provides the framework for administrative decentralisation and allocates functions, as well as human resources from central agencies, to those at the district level.
Mr Ahwoi explained that the objectives of the L.I. 1961 sought to operationalise the functioning of the decentralised departments at the district level as departments of the assemblies; to confirm the staff of the departments of the DAs as members of the LGS; and to ensure the operationalisation of the district composite budget system.
Mr Ahwoi said the L.I.1961 adopted a two-phase approach to the establishment of the departments of the district assemblies.
Under phase one of the L.I, departments which were not established by legislation were to be converted into departments of the district assemblies immediately, while under phase two, departments established by legislation would also convert into departments of the district assemblies when their enabling laws had been appropriately amended.
Mr Ahwoi noted that with the implementation of the LI 1961, the bureaucracy chain in the decentralisation process would be broken to allow for effective delivery at the various levels.
The Head of the Local Government Studies, Mr Akwasi Opong Fosu, said the necessary regulations needed to facilitate the commencement of the LI 1961 were being worked out and would soon be made public.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Mark Woyongo, said the passage of the L.I 1961 was the first step of creating the legislative framework and structures for the commencement of the decentralised departments to work under the ambit of assemblies.
He was, however, not pleased with the fact that the L.I. was silent on the role of regional co-ordinating councils and regional departments and expressed the hope that the issue would be addressed to facilitate a deeper understanding of the interface between the RCCs and the regional departments and those of the MMDAs and their departments to maintain harmony and effective administration.
Thursday 6 January 2011
BISHOP AYEEBO DISMISSES CLAIMS BY NDEBUGRE (PAGE 13, JAN 6, 2011)
A MEMBER of the Council of State, Reverend Dr Jacob Kofi Ayeebo, has rejected claims by Mr John Ndebugre a defeated candidate of the recent District Assembly election, that he was among the persons who allegedly masterminded his (Ndebugre’s) defeat in the district level elections in the Timonde Electoral Area in the Upper East Region.
Speaking on an Accra-based radio station, Mr Ndebugre said among other things that "the Upper East regional representative of the Council of State who is also a bishop, an Anglican Bishop, went with food and drinks… and the bishop was nearly beaten and he ran for his life… I am saying it on authority; the bishop had to run for his life.”
But Reverend Dr Ayeebo, who is the Bishop Coadjutor of the Tamale Diocese of the Anglican Church, in an interview with the Daily Graphic, dismissed the claims and said he was in no way involved in the election process in the district as is being alleged by the ex-MP for Zebilla.
He said as a well respected opinion leader in the Bawku West district, there was no way anyone would chase him away not only in the district but in any other community in the Upper East Region and challenged the defeated assembly man and a former cabinet minister to prove the allegations.
Explaining what happened, the Bishop said in line with what he did annually, he organised a reception for his relations and church members at his family home in Kasongo on December 27, 2010, which was successful, after which everyone dispersed.
He stressed further that there was never an occasion where he was chased by anyone and what happened was only a family activity that ended peacefully.
Rev. Dr Ayeebo said on the day of the elections he was nowhere near the district as he was engrossed in work at the offices of the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organisation (ADDRO) in Bolgatanga of which he is the Executive Director.
He explained that as a clergyman, he recognised the fact that he was there for all and not for a section of the people. As such he did not engage in activities that would bring division among the people.
“Members of my flock belong to various persuasions and political parties and as a Bishop, I owe it to myself and the church to live above reproach. I will not do anything that will denigrate my reputation and bring unnecessary tension,” he said.
The Bishop has served in various capacities, including being the presiding member of the Bawku West District Assembly during the era of both the NPP and the current NDC administration.
He explained that based on his position as a well respected opinion leader in the district, the NPP administration appointed him as an assembly member and was later voted for by the house as the Presiding Member.
He said under the current NDC administration, he was again appointed an assembly member and later voted for as the Presiding Member until he contested for the slot as the regional representative of the Council of State.
He appealed to Mr John Ndebugre not to associate his failure to annex the Timonde Electoral Area seat to him but rather accept the outcome of the poll in good faith.
Mr Ndebugre was handed a political blow when 38-year-old Julius Ayaaba beat him to the assembly seat, and elections watchers have described his defeat as a major dent to his aspirations to contest the parliamentary seat on the ticket of the NPP to recapture the seat he lost to Mr Avoka, come 2012.
Speaking on an Accra-based radio station, Mr Ndebugre said among other things that "the Upper East regional representative of the Council of State who is also a bishop, an Anglican Bishop, went with food and drinks… and the bishop was nearly beaten and he ran for his life… I am saying it on authority; the bishop had to run for his life.”
But Reverend Dr Ayeebo, who is the Bishop Coadjutor of the Tamale Diocese of the Anglican Church, in an interview with the Daily Graphic, dismissed the claims and said he was in no way involved in the election process in the district as is being alleged by the ex-MP for Zebilla.
He said as a well respected opinion leader in the Bawku West district, there was no way anyone would chase him away not only in the district but in any other community in the Upper East Region and challenged the defeated assembly man and a former cabinet minister to prove the allegations.
Explaining what happened, the Bishop said in line with what he did annually, he organised a reception for his relations and church members at his family home in Kasongo on December 27, 2010, which was successful, after which everyone dispersed.
He stressed further that there was never an occasion where he was chased by anyone and what happened was only a family activity that ended peacefully.
Rev. Dr Ayeebo said on the day of the elections he was nowhere near the district as he was engrossed in work at the offices of the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organisation (ADDRO) in Bolgatanga of which he is the Executive Director.
He explained that as a clergyman, he recognised the fact that he was there for all and not for a section of the people. As such he did not engage in activities that would bring division among the people.
“Members of my flock belong to various persuasions and political parties and as a Bishop, I owe it to myself and the church to live above reproach. I will not do anything that will denigrate my reputation and bring unnecessary tension,” he said.
The Bishop has served in various capacities, including being the presiding member of the Bawku West District Assembly during the era of both the NPP and the current NDC administration.
He explained that based on his position as a well respected opinion leader in the district, the NPP administration appointed him as an assembly member and was later voted for by the house as the Presiding Member.
He said under the current NDC administration, he was again appointed an assembly member and later voted for as the Presiding Member until he contested for the slot as the regional representative of the Council of State.
He appealed to Mr John Ndebugre not to associate his failure to annex the Timonde Electoral Area seat to him but rather accept the outcome of the poll in good faith.
Mr Ndebugre was handed a political blow when 38-year-old Julius Ayaaba beat him to the assembly seat, and elections watchers have described his defeat as a major dent to his aspirations to contest the parliamentary seat on the ticket of the NPP to recapture the seat he lost to Mr Avoka, come 2012.
Wednesday 5 January 2011
PERPETRATORS OF 1981 COUP ARE CRIMINALS — PNC (PAGE 13, JAN 5, 2011)
THE National Youth Organiser of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Mr Emmanuel Wilson, has stated that perpetrators of the 1981 31st December coup which ousted President Dr Hilla Limann should have been languishing in jail by now.
Addressing a public lecture to commemorate the 29 years of the overthrow of the founder and leader of the PNC, Dr. Hilla Limann, Mr. Wilson accused the coup makers for overthrowing a legitimate government voted for by the good people of Ghana.
He alleged that the leadership of the coup violated the 1979 Constitution and committed a treasonable offence for which reason they should have been handed life sentences.
The PNC National Youth Organiser chastised the framers of the 1992 Constitution for inserting the indemnity clause and said that clause should be removed to ensure that those who perpetrated the coup that truncated the government of Dr Limann were brought to justice.
He blamed some members of the Limann Administration, who were currently serving in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as persons who conspired with the coup makers to facilitate the overthrow of the Presidency of the country in the Third Republic.
He added that such high level of betrayal and sycophancy must not be tolerated in the current PNC set up.
Touching on the way forward for the PNC, Mr. Wilson said the party was placed at a privileged position among the other political parties in the country to assume the reigns of government but that required committed members who would throw their support behind the leadership and the entire party.
“Let’s eschew sycophancy” he said, stressing that: “The culture of sycophancy is becoming a growing phenomenon in PNC today. Till we are able to resolve to pursue the collective interest of the party and not our individual interests and rally behind our party, the PNC will not win elections in this country”.
Speaking on the topic: “Expectation or Realities of the Limann Administrations”, the Upper East Regional Secretary of the PNC, Mr. Henry Fatchu, said although President Limann served only 27 months in government, he left a great legacy and added had the military accepted that only patience, honesty, sincerity and hard work were the cardinal principles of saving the nation from total ruin and disgrace, the Limann administration would have been one of the best in the country.
“By sensible and cautious diplomacy, prudent financial management and probity in handling affairs, the Limann administration was making a positive impact on the world financial and economic institutions when the 31st December 1981 coup came” he said.
The Regional Chairman of the PNC, Alhaji Baba Mohammed, said 31st December in each year would be used to remind Ghanaians of the achievements of Dr Limann and propagate what he stood for.
Addressing a public lecture to commemorate the 29 years of the overthrow of the founder and leader of the PNC, Dr. Hilla Limann, Mr. Wilson accused the coup makers for overthrowing a legitimate government voted for by the good people of Ghana.
He alleged that the leadership of the coup violated the 1979 Constitution and committed a treasonable offence for which reason they should have been handed life sentences.
The PNC National Youth Organiser chastised the framers of the 1992 Constitution for inserting the indemnity clause and said that clause should be removed to ensure that those who perpetrated the coup that truncated the government of Dr Limann were brought to justice.
He blamed some members of the Limann Administration, who were currently serving in the National Democratic Congress (NDC), as persons who conspired with the coup makers to facilitate the overthrow of the Presidency of the country in the Third Republic.
He added that such high level of betrayal and sycophancy must not be tolerated in the current PNC set up.
Touching on the way forward for the PNC, Mr. Wilson said the party was placed at a privileged position among the other political parties in the country to assume the reigns of government but that required committed members who would throw their support behind the leadership and the entire party.
“Let’s eschew sycophancy” he said, stressing that: “The culture of sycophancy is becoming a growing phenomenon in PNC today. Till we are able to resolve to pursue the collective interest of the party and not our individual interests and rally behind our party, the PNC will not win elections in this country”.
Speaking on the topic: “Expectation or Realities of the Limann Administrations”, the Upper East Regional Secretary of the PNC, Mr. Henry Fatchu, said although President Limann served only 27 months in government, he left a great legacy and added had the military accepted that only patience, honesty, sincerity and hard work were the cardinal principles of saving the nation from total ruin and disgrace, the Limann administration would have been one of the best in the country.
“By sensible and cautious diplomacy, prudent financial management and probity in handling affairs, the Limann administration was making a positive impact on the world financial and economic institutions when the 31st December 1981 coup came” he said.
The Regional Chairman of the PNC, Alhaji Baba Mohammed, said 31st December in each year would be used to remind Ghanaians of the achievements of Dr Limann and propagate what he stood for.
Tuesday 4 January 2011
TOP POST FOR REV YISAZUAH (PAGE 22, JAN 4, 2011)
THE Upper East branch of the Assemblies of God Church has held an induction ceremony for Rev. Peter Yisazuah as the new Regional Superintendent of the church.
The ceremony which was held at the Zebilla Central Assemblies of God Church, was officiated by the General Superintendent of the church, Rev. Dr Paul Frimpong-Manso.
Rev. Peter Yisazuah served as the head pastor of the Missiga Assemblies of God Church. From 1987 until his new appointment, he served in various offices, namely district treasurer, youth representative, district pastor, Regional Youth Director, Bible translator and regional secretary.
At an induction service, the General Superintendent of the church, Rev. Dr Paul Frimpong-Manso, urged the inductee to serve as a leader for all and not for a group of people.
He also implored the congregation to adhere to teachings of Christ and the constitution of the Assemblies of God in order to achieve the objectives of the church.
Rev. Frimpong-Manso also called for collaboration between the government and various religious bodies in the region in particular and the country as a whole to enhance national development.
The Regional Superintendent-elect pledged to work with all and sundry to ensure harmony within the church.
Touching on the oil find and the emerging oil industry in Ghana, he called for transparency and integrity in the management of the revenue so that the entire citizenry would benefit from it.
The ceremony which was held at the Zebilla Central Assemblies of God Church, was officiated by the General Superintendent of the church, Rev. Dr Paul Frimpong-Manso.
Rev. Peter Yisazuah served as the head pastor of the Missiga Assemblies of God Church. From 1987 until his new appointment, he served in various offices, namely district treasurer, youth representative, district pastor, Regional Youth Director, Bible translator and regional secretary.
At an induction service, the General Superintendent of the church, Rev. Dr Paul Frimpong-Manso, urged the inductee to serve as a leader for all and not for a group of people.
He also implored the congregation to adhere to teachings of Christ and the constitution of the Assemblies of God in order to achieve the objectives of the church.
Rev. Frimpong-Manso also called for collaboration between the government and various religious bodies in the region in particular and the country as a whole to enhance national development.
The Regional Superintendent-elect pledged to work with all and sundry to ensure harmony within the church.
Touching on the oil find and the emerging oil industry in Ghana, he called for transparency and integrity in the management of the revenue so that the entire citizenry would benefit from it.
OUTBREAK OF SKIN DISEASES AT BOLGA (PAGE 22, JAN 4, 2011)
THE Bolgatanga Municipal Health Centre has for the past eleven months, recorded 4,912 skin diseases, including 64 yaws cases.
A Pharmacy Technologist in-charge of the Pharmacy Unit of the health centre, Mr Noble Asakeya Alagskoma, who made this known to the Daily Graphic in Bolgatanga, said the disease affected 3,392 children and 2,520 adults.
According to him, the current situation was unacceptable considering the degree of educational programmes carried out on sustained basis by health professionals and civil society organisations like the Coalition on NGOs in Health in the Upper East Region.
He therefore made a passionate appeal to the general public to adhere strictly to personal hygiene.
Mr Alagskoma also appealed to the Disease Control Unit of the Ghana Health Service to conduct an investigation into the causes of the diseases and take realistic measures to cure the victims once and for all since they impacted negatively on productivity and also drained the health budget.
A Pharmacy Technologist in-charge of the Pharmacy Unit of the health centre, Mr Noble Asakeya Alagskoma, who made this known to the Daily Graphic in Bolgatanga, said the disease affected 3,392 children and 2,520 adults.
According to him, the current situation was unacceptable considering the degree of educational programmes carried out on sustained basis by health professionals and civil society organisations like the Coalition on NGOs in Health in the Upper East Region.
He therefore made a passionate appeal to the general public to adhere strictly to personal hygiene.
Mr Alagskoma also appealed to the Disease Control Unit of the Ghana Health Service to conduct an investigation into the causes of the diseases and take realistic measures to cure the victims once and for all since they impacted negatively on productivity and also drained the health budget.
GARU-TEMPANE TO BENEFIT FROM HNIS (PAGE 22, JAN 4, 2011)
THANKS to efforts made by both the previous and current governments in the Garu-Tempane District in the Upper East Region, all is now set for the commencement of an independent Mutual Health Insurance Scheme in the district.
Until now, people in the district, which was carved out of the Bawku Municipality some years ago, had to trek several kilometres to Bawku to either register or renew their membership of the scheme. Many of the citizens found the trip very cumbersome and therefore, failed to travel the long distance to register with the scheme in order to receive quality health care delivery.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area, Mr David Adakudugu, who disclosed this at a town hall meeting in Garu, said all the necessary documentation had been done so very soon the district would have its independent mutual health insurance scheme.
The forum, which was attended by traditional rulers, representatives of political parties in the district, former assembly members, women and youth groups, among others, was aimed at informing the public about some of the development projects carried out in the district within the past two years.
Mr Adakudugu said in line with Prof. Mills’s government policy, his administration inherited a number of on-going projects that were initiated by the past regime, but realised that those projects, if completed, would serve the interest of the people, hence a vigorous programme was implemented to complete those projects.
The projects include the construction of a four three-unit early childhood development centres at Kpatia, Bugri, Barekoba and Kpikpira.
Other projects are the completion of three classroom blocks with KVIP public places of convenience and urinal facilities at Kpikpira, Kariyata and Bimpela, which are currently in use.
The DCE also added that since assuming office, his administration had completed an assembly block which was in use, while 20-unit market sheds and 40-unit market stalls had also been constructed.
Mr Adakudugu said the assembly, under his watch, had rehabilitated the community centre at Kpikpira and the Police Post at Woriyanga to enhance security in that part of the district.
He stated that the total debt inherited by his administration was GH¢1,146.625.86 but as of now, a total of GH¢900,000 had been serviced.
Mr Adakudugu said since assuming office, apart from completing the on going projects, new projects had been initiated to help bring relief to the people.
He said in the area of education, a three-unit classroom block with KVIP and urinal facilities had been completed at Gaago, Kongo, Nomboko and Akara.
Mr Adakudugu also mentioned the construction of a six-unit classroom block at Bulipielsi, the rehabilitation of a primary school block at Kpatia and the provision of 6,000 dual desks to schools across the district as some of the projects undertaken by the current government.
The DCE said other projects provided in the district under the education sector included the construction of a six-unit classroom block with auxiliary facilities in communities such as Karateshie, Wanwaago, Napaadi and Naate.
He said to date, a total of 1,500 exercise books and about 4,000 school uniforms had been distributed to pupils throughout the district.
In the health sector, the DCE disclosed that the projects carried out within the two years of the current government included the construction of CHPS compounds in communities like Gagbiri and Aloko.
On agriculture, Mr Adakudugu said the government had rehabilitated dams at Basyonde, Gbaterago, Woriyanga, Tempane, Karateshie and Songo.
On Water and Sanitation, the DCE said the Garu-Town Small Water and Sanitation System started in 2008 had been completed.
He said as part of the water system, 130 household latrines were also provided, adding that the assembly had extended the facility to Bugnatinga where fluoride was destroying the teeth of the children.
Mr Adakudugu added that the small town water and sanitation systems for Tempane–Yabrago and Denugu-Danvoga were about 90 per cent completed.
He also stated that with support from World Vision International, 40 boreholes had been provided throughout the district.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, who also addressed the gathering, hinted that under the government programme to open up the area, the eastern corridor roads passing through the district as well as other artery roads would be tackled in the coming year, to facilitate the transportation of goods and services.
Until now, people in the district, which was carved out of the Bawku Municipality some years ago, had to trek several kilometres to Bawku to either register or renew their membership of the scheme. Many of the citizens found the trip very cumbersome and therefore, failed to travel the long distance to register with the scheme in order to receive quality health care delivery.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area, Mr David Adakudugu, who disclosed this at a town hall meeting in Garu, said all the necessary documentation had been done so very soon the district would have its independent mutual health insurance scheme.
The forum, which was attended by traditional rulers, representatives of political parties in the district, former assembly members, women and youth groups, among others, was aimed at informing the public about some of the development projects carried out in the district within the past two years.
Mr Adakudugu said in line with Prof. Mills’s government policy, his administration inherited a number of on-going projects that were initiated by the past regime, but realised that those projects, if completed, would serve the interest of the people, hence a vigorous programme was implemented to complete those projects.
The projects include the construction of a four three-unit early childhood development centres at Kpatia, Bugri, Barekoba and Kpikpira.
Other projects are the completion of three classroom blocks with KVIP public places of convenience and urinal facilities at Kpikpira, Kariyata and Bimpela, which are currently in use.
The DCE also added that since assuming office, his administration had completed an assembly block which was in use, while 20-unit market sheds and 40-unit market stalls had also been constructed.
Mr Adakudugu said the assembly, under his watch, had rehabilitated the community centre at Kpikpira and the Police Post at Woriyanga to enhance security in that part of the district.
He stated that the total debt inherited by his administration was GH¢1,146.625.86 but as of now, a total of GH¢900,000 had been serviced.
Mr Adakudugu said since assuming office, apart from completing the on going projects, new projects had been initiated to help bring relief to the people.
He said in the area of education, a three-unit classroom block with KVIP and urinal facilities had been completed at Gaago, Kongo, Nomboko and Akara.
Mr Adakudugu also mentioned the construction of a six-unit classroom block at Bulipielsi, the rehabilitation of a primary school block at Kpatia and the provision of 6,000 dual desks to schools across the district as some of the projects undertaken by the current government.
The DCE said other projects provided in the district under the education sector included the construction of a six-unit classroom block with auxiliary facilities in communities such as Karateshie, Wanwaago, Napaadi and Naate.
He said to date, a total of 1,500 exercise books and about 4,000 school uniforms had been distributed to pupils throughout the district.
In the health sector, the DCE disclosed that the projects carried out within the two years of the current government included the construction of CHPS compounds in communities like Gagbiri and Aloko.
On agriculture, Mr Adakudugu said the government had rehabilitated dams at Basyonde, Gbaterago, Woriyanga, Tempane, Karateshie and Songo.
On Water and Sanitation, the DCE said the Garu-Town Small Water and Sanitation System started in 2008 had been completed.
He said as part of the water system, 130 household latrines were also provided, adding that the assembly had extended the facility to Bugnatinga where fluoride was destroying the teeth of the children.
Mr Adakudugu added that the small town water and sanitation systems for Tempane–Yabrago and Denugu-Danvoga were about 90 per cent completed.
He also stated that with support from World Vision International, 40 boreholes had been provided throughout the district.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, who also addressed the gathering, hinted that under the government programme to open up the area, the eastern corridor roads passing through the district as well as other artery roads would be tackled in the coming year, to facilitate the transportation of goods and services.
ACCRA-BASED SIRIGU CITIZENS DONATE TO ORPHANAGE (PAGE 22, JAN 4, 2011)
NATIVES of Sirigu in the Kassena-Nankana West District in the Upper East Region who are resident in Accra and Tema have presented assorted items to the Mother of Mercy Babies Home.
The orphanage caters for children who lost either or both parents at birth or children of insane mothers.
The home received 12 bags of rice, two gallons of cooking oil, 10 packets of biscuits, two cartons of drinks and GH¢500.
The leader of the group, Mr Emmanuel Aberinga, who led the delegation to the home to present the items, said the gesture was part of their annual programme to support the orphanage.
He stated that the group would make the donation twice a year, one during the Easter and the other at Christmas.
Mr Aberinga said the group would link up with citizens of the town domiciled in other parts of the country to offer the necessary assistance to needy institutions at home.
The caretaker of the home, Rev. Sister Innocentia, said the Mother of Mercy Babies Home, established in 1984 by the German Medical Sisters, depended largely on the diocese for assistance but that alone was not enough to carry out activities in the home.
She mentioned the lack of constant running water and a strong vehicle as some of the challenges the home faced, and appealed to other philanthropists to come to the aid of the home.
The orphanage caters for children who lost either or both parents at birth or children of insane mothers.
The home received 12 bags of rice, two gallons of cooking oil, 10 packets of biscuits, two cartons of drinks and GH¢500.
The leader of the group, Mr Emmanuel Aberinga, who led the delegation to the home to present the items, said the gesture was part of their annual programme to support the orphanage.
He stated that the group would make the donation twice a year, one during the Easter and the other at Christmas.
Mr Aberinga said the group would link up with citizens of the town domiciled in other parts of the country to offer the necessary assistance to needy institutions at home.
The caretaker of the home, Rev. Sister Innocentia, said the Mother of Mercy Babies Home, established in 1984 by the German Medical Sisters, depended largely on the diocese for assistance but that alone was not enough to carry out activities in the home.
She mentioned the lack of constant running water and a strong vehicle as some of the challenges the home faced, and appealed to other philanthropists to come to the aid of the home.
Monday 3 January 2011
Hail 2011: Year Of Breakthroughs(D/G, Monday January 3, 2011)
..........................................The Chairman of the Upper Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church, Rev Esmond Wasau Nagba, asked Christians to lead Godly lives if Ghana is to progress and take its place among the developed nations, Benjamin Xornam Glover reports from Bolgatanga.“As we enter the new year, our responsibility as Christians should be to make an impact wherever we find ourselves as parents, husbands, workers, security persons, children, wives, politicians, among others. This is your responsibility and privilege as members of God’s church,” he said. Rev Nagba said this in a sermon on New Year’s Eve at the Peniel Congregation of the Presbyterian Church.“Our relationship with Jesus Christ should go beyond the walls of the church. We are to bring God’s presence in the places we find ourselves,” he said.He called on all Christians to eschew corruption, cheating and all other vices that went against the accelerated development of the country and rather reposition themselves to impact the land positively through their responsibilities to God.Some residents of Bolgatanga who spoke to the Daily Graphic were optimistic that things would be right in the new year.
PEACE BRINGD DEV TO BAWKU (BACK PAGE, JAN 1, 2011)
The Bawku Municipality in the Upper East Region is witnessing rapid development due to the relative peace prevailing in the area after months of violent conflict.
Speaking at this year’s Samanpiid festival of the chiefs and people of Bawku last Thursday, the municipal chief executive of the area, Mr Musa Abdulai, said over the last two years, the assembly had awarded more than 30 projects in the municipality in the areas of education, health, water and sanitation, electricity and agriculture.
Mr Abdulai attributed the fast pace of development to the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the municipality and the preparedness of the people to co-exist peacefully.
Samanpiid festival, which is celebrated annually, is a traditional post-harvest thanksgiving event meant to thank God and the ancestral spirits for a successful farming season. It is also an occasion to discuss other social and developmental issues affecting the people.
This year’s celebration, like in the past two celebrations, was held under heavy security to avert any nasty incident.
The MCE said for the year 2010 alone, seven six-unit classroom blocks with ancillary facilities had been awarded under the GETFund facility. Again, 15 boreholes and two clinics and some roads were being constructed under the Community Based Rural Development Programme.
In the agriculture sector, Mr Abdulai said the government, through the fertiliser subsidy, lessened the burden of farmers and this had led to an increase in agricultural output in the municipality.
He appealed to the chiefs and people not to draw back efforts aimed at restoring permanent peace in the municipality, emphasising that “greater things would by all means be done if we all eschew violence and embrace each other as a people with a common destiny”.
He also commended the security agencies and all other stakeholders for sacrificing their lives and time towards attaining peace in the area and pledged the commitment towards measures put in place to return the municipality to permanent peace.
The Minister for Chieftaincy and Culture, Mr Alexander Asum-Ahesah, who represented the President at the festival, reminded the people of the area that what they needed was absolute peace for the massive socio-economic development and not incessant violence.
He disclosed that the government had contracted a loan of $75 million from the International Development Association (IDA) to improve and upgrade the water sector in six regions including the Upper East Region. Also, about 20,000 boreholes would be provided throughout the country starting from the 2011 fiscal year.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, appealed to the people of Bawku to use the festival as a vehicle for reconciliation and forgiveness.
“Let us see ourselves as brothers and sisters, with the same sense of purpose of rebuilding this once growing and prosperous municipality,” he said.
The Paramount Chief of Bawku, Zug-Raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, said he looked forward to a day that all the people in Bawku could fully reintegrate as brothers and sisters, mingling freely everywhere without fear or suspicion of one another.
Speaking at this year’s Samanpiid festival of the chiefs and people of Bawku last Thursday, the municipal chief executive of the area, Mr Musa Abdulai, said over the last two years, the assembly had awarded more than 30 projects in the municipality in the areas of education, health, water and sanitation, electricity and agriculture.
Mr Abdulai attributed the fast pace of development to the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the municipality and the preparedness of the people to co-exist peacefully.
Samanpiid festival, which is celebrated annually, is a traditional post-harvest thanksgiving event meant to thank God and the ancestral spirits for a successful farming season. It is also an occasion to discuss other social and developmental issues affecting the people.
This year’s celebration, like in the past two celebrations, was held under heavy security to avert any nasty incident.
The MCE said for the year 2010 alone, seven six-unit classroom blocks with ancillary facilities had been awarded under the GETFund facility. Again, 15 boreholes and two clinics and some roads were being constructed under the Community Based Rural Development Programme.
In the agriculture sector, Mr Abdulai said the government, through the fertiliser subsidy, lessened the burden of farmers and this had led to an increase in agricultural output in the municipality.
He appealed to the chiefs and people not to draw back efforts aimed at restoring permanent peace in the municipality, emphasising that “greater things would by all means be done if we all eschew violence and embrace each other as a people with a common destiny”.
He also commended the security agencies and all other stakeholders for sacrificing their lives and time towards attaining peace in the area and pledged the commitment towards measures put in place to return the municipality to permanent peace.
The Minister for Chieftaincy and Culture, Mr Alexander Asum-Ahesah, who represented the President at the festival, reminded the people of the area that what they needed was absolute peace for the massive socio-economic development and not incessant violence.
He disclosed that the government had contracted a loan of $75 million from the International Development Association (IDA) to improve and upgrade the water sector in six regions including the Upper East Region. Also, about 20,000 boreholes would be provided throughout the country starting from the 2011 fiscal year.
The Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Mark Woyongo, appealed to the people of Bawku to use the festival as a vehicle for reconciliation and forgiveness.
“Let us see ourselves as brothers and sisters, with the same sense of purpose of rebuilding this once growing and prosperous municipality,” he said.
The Paramount Chief of Bawku, Zug-Raan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, said he looked forward to a day that all the people in Bawku could fully reintegrate as brothers and sisters, mingling freely everywhere without fear or suspicion of one another.
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