Upper East Regional Minister Donatus Akamugri Atanga has defended the government’s handling of the proposed Upper East Airport project, following accusations that he sidelined or betrayed certain interest groups involved in supporting the airport’s construction, particularly regarding the acquisition of community land to facilitate the project.
Speaking at the first press soiree under the current administration on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, Mr. Atanga clarified that all necessary documentation for the project has been obtained in accordance with legal and customary requirements. He said the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), in collaboration with local chiefs and landowners, prepared a cadastral plan and indenture, which were officially signed by the legitimate landowners, ensuring the government has the authority to use the land.
“The indenture can only be authorised by the landowner. If you are not a landowner, you cannot be a signatory. Because of those publications, some people misconstrued and said the regional minister was trespassing, but that is not true,” he said. The Minister added that more than 15 chiefs and community leaders recently visited his office to formally confirm their consent for the project, clearing the way for its implementation.
Mr. Atanga said the RCC also worked closely with Members of Parliament from the region, including Hon. James Agalga, to ensure the airport project was captured in the national budget, reflecting government commitment. He further noted that officials from the Ghana Airport Company, including the Civil Aviation Director and board members, recently visited the site and expressed readiness to commence construction once all formalities are completed.
The Minister projected that, if all processes are finalised, work on the airport could begin as early as June 2026, and the project may be inaugurated during a presidential visit in February. “The airport belongs to all of us. Let us work in unison and not allow personal interests to disrupt leadership,” he said.
The Upper East Airport project has been a major development initiative under the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, promoting economic growth, and creating jobs in the Upper East Region. However, the project has faced controversy, with some local figures alleging mismanagement and lack of transparency in land acquisition.
Mr. Atanga’s clarification comes amid ongoing community debates, as government and local stakeholders work to ensure proper documentation, community consent, and adherence to legal procedures ahead of the construction phase.
Source: A1 Radio | 101.1 Mhz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Bolgatanga
