News
Government endorses Bawku mediation report, announces GH¢1bn revitalisation fund
The Government of Ghana has fully accepted the findings and recommendations of the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report presented by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, describing it as a clear roadmap towards lasting peace in the conflict hit area.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday December 17, 2025, the government noted that the report was carefully reviewed and endorsed in full, stressing that it was not meant to declare winners or losers but to promote reconciliation and stability in Bawku and surrounding communities.
Government reaffirmed the legal position that Naba Asigri Abugrago Azoka II remains the legitimate Bawku Naba, in line with rulings by the Supreme Court, adding that no individual or group has the authority to challenge his status.
As part of the mediation recommendations, government accepted that Alhaji Seidu Abagre, who had been installed as a rival claimant, be recalled to Nalerigu by the Nayiri to take up an alternative traditional role. Authorities announced that arrangements would be made immediately to ensure his safe movement to Nalerigu under state facilitation.
Government also appealed to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to continue offering leadership and moral guidance in future reconciliation efforts between the Mamprusi and Kusasi communities.
On development, the statement acknowledged that years of conflict have caused serious human and economic losses, affecting livelihoods, investment and infrastructure. To address this, John Dramani Mahama directed the establishment of a One Billion Ghana Cedi Bawku Revitalisation Fund.
The fund, to be spent between 2026 and 2028, will support the construction of roads, schools, health facilities, dams and irrigation systems, security installations and commercial infrastructure to revive economic activity in the area.
Management of the fund will be overseen by a high level committee chaired by the Minister for Finance, Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, with membership including the Upper East Regional Minister Donaltus Akamuguri and the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, representing Members of Parliament from the area.
Government called on traditional leaders, political actors, youth groups, civil society, religious bodies and the general public to support the peace process and embrace unity and restraint.
The statement expressed appreciation to Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Nayiri, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahama Sheriga II, the Bawku Naba and all stakeholders whose efforts contributed to what government described as a historic mediation process.
By: Jacob Aggrey
President John Dramani Mahama has visited the Akosombo Dam to assess the impact of a fire incident at a substation operated by the Ghana Grid Company.
The fire is reported to have caused the loss of more than 1,000 megawatts from the national power grid, affecting electricity supply in parts of the country.
During the visit, he inspected ongoing restoration works and received briefings from engineers on efforts to restore power. He commended them for what he described as a swift and professional response to the situation.
According to him, the government remains committed to restoring stable electricity supply as quickly as possible.
He added that steps are also being taken to strengthen the resilience of Ghana’s energy infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Ghana Grid Company has not yet provided a detailed timeline for full restoration, but work is ongoing to bring affected systems back on stream.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Ghana’s Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, says he and his deputy have publicly filed their annual tax returns to demonstrate leadership and encourage compliance among citizens.
In a facebook post, he explained that the move was meant to show that public officials must lead by example when it comes to fulfilling civic duties.
“Leadership must be demonstrated, not declared,” he said.
He commended Ghanaian taxpayers for their continued contribution to national development, noting that tax compliance plays a key role in sustaining government activities.
According to him, paying taxes is both a legal and moral responsibility. He stressed that all citizens, including public officials, professionals, and businesses, are equal before the law and must meet their tax obligations.
He added that tax revenue is essential for funding key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
The minister praised the Ghana Revenue Authority for its work, especially during the ongoing Tax and Good Governance Month in April. He said the initiative helps to educate the public and promote voluntary compliance.
He urged the authority to intensify public education and continue reforms aimed at simplifying tax processes, reducing compliance costs, and improving transparency.
He further encouraged individuals and businesses that are yet to file their returns to do so promptly, adding that support systems and digital platforms are available to assist them.
He said building a strong tax culture would strengthen the country’s economy, improve accountability, and promote fairness in society.
By: Jacob Aggrey
