The Northern Patriots in Research and Advocacy (NORPRA) has called on the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Atanga Akamugri, to urgently address what it describes as the “total failure” of the One Village, One Dam (1V1D) policy in Northern Ghana, as well as procurement irregularities and fund mismanagement in the Free Senior High School (FSHS) program.
During a meeting with the Regional Minister, NORPRA presented findings from its recent assessments, revealing that none of the over 400 dams constructed under the 1V1D initiative in Northern Ghana contained water for dry-season farming. The group stated that the policy—originally intended to boost agricultural productivity, improve food security, and create jobs—had instead become a “drain on the public purse.”
Failed Dams and Lost Millions
NORPRA’s assessment indicated that the 1V1D projects failed to achieve their intended objectives, leaving beneficiary communities without the expected irrigation benefits. Additionally, the group disclosed that Ghana lost over GH¢47 million nationwide—GH¢10 million of which came from Northern Ghana—due to procurement irregularities in the FSHS program between 2017 and 2023.
Bismark Adongo Ayorogo, Executive Director of NORPRA, emphasized the need for accountability, stating:
“Government must, as a matter of urgency, investigate and demand accountability from all those involved in the implementation of these projects. The people of Northern Ghana deserve better.”
Call for Renewable Energy Investment
Given the failure of the 1V1D policy, NORPRA urged the government to redirect focus towards renewable energy solutions, such as properly constructed dams and solar-powered mechanized boreholes, to support women in agriculture. The group argued that such investments would align with Ghana’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement and the Renewable Energy Act (Act 832).
“Prioritizing renewable energy in the upcoming Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies (2026–2030) will demonstrate the government’s commitment to climate resilience and sustainable development,” Ayorogo added.
Northern Development Authority and Agro-Processing Initiatives
NORPRA commended the government’s commitment to accelerating development in Northern Ghana through the Northern Development Authority (NDA), dismissing speculations about its potential dissolution. The group also highlighted its support for the Northern Savannah Women Enterprise (NORSWE), a collective of 600 women trained in agro-processing.
Equipped with skills from the CSIR-Food Research Institute, these women produce high-quality products such as groundnut paste, soymilk, and weanimix. NORPRA appealed for government support to expand market access for these products, particularly under initiatives like the Ghana School Feeding Programme and the proposed 24-hour economy policy.
Government’s Response
Hon. Akamugri acknowledged NORPRA’s concerns and assured them of the government’s commitment to transparency and development in Northern Ghana. He pledged to escalate the issues to the appropriate authorities for further action.
As calls for accountability grow, stakeholders await decisive steps to address the alleged mismanagement and redirect resources towards sustainable development projects in the region.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1 MHz | Moses Apiah | Bolgatanga
