Prominent Ghanaian entrepreneur and native of the Upper East Region, Awentami Paul Afoko, has advocated for the establishment of an international airport in the Upper East Region, asserting that it is essential for unlocking the region’s agricultural and export capabilities.
Speaking to stakeholders at the Regional Development Framework validation forum in Bolgatanga, Mr. Afoko emphasized that the Upper East Region is rich in economic prospects that can be realized through targeted investments in agriculture, infrastructure, and trade.
“As a business owner, I have come to understand that it is not governments that create businesses; it is entrepreneurs. The role of the government is to foster an environment conducive to business success,” he stated.
He pointed out that irrigation initiatives and commercial agriculture are pivotal for economic advancement, advocating for increased investment in the year-round cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and flowers for global markets.
“The issue is not about securing buyers. The issue lies in producing at a scale that is sustainable throughout the year,” he remarked.
Mr. Afoko further urged investments in warehouses, cold-chain logistics, packaging facilities, and standardized production systems to enhance the competitiveness of local products, such as shea butter, basket weaving, and textiles.
“We must coordinate our efforts to produce standardized goods and invest in warehouses, cold chains, and packaging to ensure we can supply year-round,” he asserted.
He underscored that an international airport would greatly enhance export opportunities from the region.
“We urgently require an airport so that flowers from the Upper East can reach Europe ahead of Kenyan flowers. Burkina Faso is cultivating strawberries, and we are capable of doing the same,” he noted.
Mr. Afoko also mentioned that the region’s strategic position offers opportunities to enhance cross-border trade with neighboring countries through improved economic diplomacy.
“An international airport is essential in the region to capitalize on export opportunities. Our advantageous location also offers significant potential to enhance border trade,” he stated.
He urged the government, diplomats, and development partners to collaborate in establishing the Upper East Region as a key agricultural and export center in West Africa.
