As Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson prepares to present the 2026 national budget and economic policy to Parliament today, the Upper East Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ayinbisa, has outlined key areas he believes the government must focus on to drive national and regional development.
Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Ayinbisa emphasized that the budget should make clear and bold policy commitments, particularly regarding the implementation of the government’s proposed 24-hour economy. According to him, citizens are still uncertain about how the policy will be executed, and the budget must provide clarity and direction to ensure its effectiveness.
“We expect this budget to make a bold statement, to make a proper allocation and give us clear direction as to how the 24-hour economy is going to be implemented. Otherwise, we are still battling with it,” he stated.
He also called for concrete allocations toward major development projects that were previously promised but remain stalled. Among these, he mentioned the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam project, the tomato processing factory, and the meat factory—all seen as vital initiatives that could generate significant employment opportunities, especially for young people in the Upper East Region.
“In the 2025 budget, we didn’t see any serious allocation for these projects. I expect the government to make proper allocations and tell us how they intend to revamp them. We are also looking at the tomato factory. These are things that, when completed, will create job opportunities for the youth in this country, particularly in this region,” he added.
Mr. Ayinbisa further noted that attention must be given to key infrastructure projects, especially the completion of the Bolgatanga–Bawku–Pulmakom road, which he described as essential for trade, mobility, and regional connectivity.
The NPP communicator stressed that realistic budgetary commitments to these projects would not only spur economic growth but also restore public confidence in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises. He expressed hope that the 2026 budget would address these pressing concerns and set a clear path for job creation and sustainable development across the country.
Source: a1radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
