Leaders and representatives from the five regions of northern Ghana gathered at the Northern People’s Conference to reaffirm their commitment to the socio-economic advancement of the north.
The assembly included chiefs, kings, political leaders, senior civil servants, and development partners, all emphasizing the importance of uniting beyond partisan politics to address the region’s persistent challenges. The gathering has notable figures such as Hon Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff under President John Mahama, and representing the President.
Addressing the participants, the Majority Leader and MP for Bawku, Hon. Mahama Ayariga highlighted the recent formation of the Northern Caucus in Parliament, comprising 57 members from the five northern regions — Upper West, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East.
The caucus’s primary goal is to set aside political differences and collaboratively pursue the development of the region. He stressed on their collective responsibility to improve living conditions, leverage their diverse experiences, and lobby for fair allocation of national resources. He also emphasized partnerships with development agencies and the private sector to implement strategic projects that would accelerate economic growth.
Hon. Ayariga pointed to a historical legacy of development efforts dating back to President Kwame Nkrumah’s 7-Year Development Plan in 1963, through various initiatives under former Presidents like Rawlings and Mahama, such as the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority. He noted recent aspirational projects like President Akufo-Addo’s district factory plan and the construction of a multipurpose dam at Pwalugu , which aim to boost regional growth.
He highlighted the unique opportunity presented by the last election, which produced a northern president, urging all stakeholders to seize this moment to effect meaningful change through coordinated efforts involving chiefs, politicians, the private sector, and development partners.
Concluding his remarks, he underscored the importance of translating discussions into actionable plans with clear timelines, targets, and monitoring mechanisms. He called for a united approach that includes mobilizing resources, engaging diaspora expertise, and avoiding another “talk shop.”
The conference was seen as a pivotal moment to catalyze tangible development initiatives and ensure that the northern people realize the potential for a brighter future, guided by a collective vision and unwavering commitment.