From Farmer to Force of Change
In the dry but determined lands of Ghana’s Upper East Region, few names carry the weight and reverence that Hon. Martin Akudugu Ariku commands. A native of Azum-Sapeliga, Ariku’s journey from humble farmer to influential leader is not just a personal triumph, but a blueprint for sustainable rural development and grassroots empowerment.
With over two decades of dedicated service in agribusiness, education management, and local governance, Ariku stands tall as a force of transformation in the Binduri District. His leadership blends technical expertise with community-first governance, making him one of the most respected figures in Northern Ghana.
Seeding Prosperity Through Agribusiness
Ariku’s rise began in the fields, literally. As the Managing Director of Ariku Company Ltd, he pioneered seed breeding, processing, and distribution, expanding a modest out-grower scheme from 105 to over 3,000 smallholder farmers. His company doesn’t just produce certified seeds; it produces prosperity.
“Farming is not just my business, it’s my calling. When a farmer thrives, a community thrives,” he said in a telephone interview with the reporter.
His innovations in agrochemical waste disposal and partnerships with international agencies have not only enhanced productivity but also introduced sustainable practices to thousands of rural farmers.
A Champion of Grassroots Development
Ariku’s impact reaches far beyond the farm. As an Assembly Member for the Sakpari-Poyamire Electoral Area (2019–2023), he became a beacon for development, advocating for infrastructure upgrades, school facilities, health centers, and water systems. His time on the Works and Housing Committee and the Development and Planning Committee helped channel strategic investments into underserved communities.
He was instrumental in providing electricity to over 50 homes in Bazua Newtown and Aporunzua through a personal transformer purchase, an uncommon gesture from a public figure.
A Philosophy of Collective Growth
“My personal philosophy is rooted in a social contract with God. I believe that any blessing I receive should be a source of benefit to others, not just myself. This drives my passion for supporting others, as I firmly believe that collective growth is key to progress. By working together and lifting each other up, we can build stronger communities and a brighter future. Togetherness is essential to achieving this vision,” he shared.
“Development shouldn’t wait for government alone. When we have the means, we must act,” Ariku often reminds constituents.
“We have to take development into our own hands. We cannot sit and fold our arms waiting for government to bring development to our doorstep.”
Political Leadership with a Purpose
In the political arena, Ariku has proven himself a unifier and mobilizer. As Constituency Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Binduri, he led the party to an unprecedented victory in 2024, securing 90.6% of the presidential votes and 73.35% of the parliamentary votes in the district.
Some colleagues describe him as “strategic yet grassroots-minded,” with a knack for training and empowering party cadres. His leadership is guided by the principle that politics should be a tool for problem-solving, not self-promotion.
Building Educational Foundations
Education is another cornerstone of Ariku’s service. As Assistant Administrator of Bazua Christian Academy, he helped transform the school into one of the best-performing institutions in the region. Under his guidance, the school expanded infrastructure, introduced teacher training, and improved access for underprivileged children.
He has supported numerous school renovation projects, donated learning materials, and drilled boreholes to ensure safe drinking water for students.
A Trail of Honours and Recognition
Ariku’s list of accolades is long and distinguished: Bawku Municipal Best Farmer (2008), Upper East Region Best Farmer (2010), Upper East Regional Best Seed Grower (2013), National Best Seed Grower (2014), First Runner-Up National Best Farmer (2016), and a place among the “100 Most Influential Personalities from Northern Ghana” in 2019. He was also named one of Ghana’s most promising business leaders by Business World’s “Twenty Under Forty” in 2017.
Yet despite these honours, he remains deeply rooted in the values that shaped him, hard work, humility, and service.
The Next Chapter: District Chief Executive Nomination
In a significant endorsement of his leadership and service, President John Dramani Mahama has nominated Hon. Martin Akudugu Ariku as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Binduri District Assembly. His nomination has been welcomed by many in the constituency as a natural progression for a man who has consistently placed people before politics. He is currently awaiting confirmation by the assembly members.
“If given the nod, I will continue to serve with the same energy, integrity, and commitment that has defined my journey so far. Binduri deserves nothing less,” he said in a brief comment following the announcement.
Vision for Binduri’s Future
With eyes set on the future of Binduri, Hon. Martin Akudugu Ariku is not slowing down. His focus remains on unlocking opportunities through agriculture, strengthening local governance, and uplifting the next generation of leaders.
“My dream is simple: a Binduri where no child walks miles for water, where every farmer has access to quality seeds, and where young people believe they can make it right here,” he emphasized.
“Let me assure you that I am in to serve my people. I may not be able to do everything, but I promise that if given the opportunity, Binduri will be the starting point for the resetting agenda of the Mahama government in the Upper East Region. I’ll embark on major projects, including extending electricity to our various communities that still live in darkness.”
“The number one priority is to fight crime. Number two is to tackle poverty head-on. After that, we will focus on making the district one of the best in the region. Even though we are in a rural area, we can develop it in a way that modernises agriculture.”
“Beyond agriculture, we’ll empower people who want to pursue education or take up vocational skills. We will help children go to school, study hard, and return to develop the community with us,” he concluded.
Leading by Action, Not Promises
In a region where leadership is often measured by promises, Hon. Martin Akudugu Ariku is setting the bar by performance. And Binduri is reaping the harvest.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Seidu Mutawakil Azangbeogo|Bolgatanga
