President John Dramani Mahama has officially launched a five-member Bawku Revitalisation Committee tasked with managing a GHS 1 billion development fund, which aims to restore the historic Upper East town and its neighboring communities to their previous commercial and social prominence.
The committee, chaired by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, will be responsible for overseeing post-conflict reconstruction, repairing damaged public infrastructure, and revitalizing economic activities in the region.
The establishment of the fund follows President Mahama’s prior endorsement of the Otumfuo Osei Tutu II mediation report on December 16, 2025, which provided a framework for enduring peace and reconciliation in the area.
During the inauguration, President Mahama expressed his sorrow over the devastating impact that years of chieftaincy and ethnic conflict have inflicted on the region, emphasizing that the unrest has severely hindered local economies and deprived residents of essential services.
“Years of conflict have impeded both public and private investments, disrupted livelihoods, and compelled vital service providers, such as teachers, nurses, and doctors, to abandon the area for their safety,” President Mahama remarked.
Acknowledging recent advancements in security, the President praised security agencies for their relentless efforts in restoring law and order. He pointed out a notable reduction in sporadic shootings and violence against innocent citizens. He asserted that the moment has arrived to shift from peacekeeping to sustainable economic recovery.
“The allocation for the Bawku Revitalisation Fund has now been finalized. With safety and security established in Bawku and its surrounding areas, it is time to commence the implementation of the Fund,” President Mahama stated, urging the committee to carry out its responsibilities with transparency, urgency, and commitment.
The five-member committee consists of essential government officials and local leaders. Alongside the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the committee includes:
1. Mahama Ayariga, Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Minister-designate for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development;
2. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister;
3. Dr. Thomas Anaba, Member of Parliament for Garu; and
4. Naba Abugri Cletus Akolwin, the Paramount Chief of the Tempane Traditional Area.
Naba Abugri Cletus Akolwin expressed gratitude to the President on behalf of the committee and the traditional leadership, affirming the team’s unwavering commitment and relaying the support of the Bawku Naba.
He assured the nation that the committee would diligently work to ensure that every cedi is utilized effectively to foster tangible development, social cohesion, and prosperity for the people of Bawku and surrounding communities.
The inauguration signifies a pivotal advancement in the government’s dedication to achieving long-term peace through focused economic empowerment and infrastructure development in the Upper East Region.
