The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has raised concerns over growing resistance by landowners to release gravel and sand for construction projects, warning that the situation could delay major government infrastructure works across the region.
Speaking during the sod-cutting ceremony for the construction of the modern 24-hour market in Bolgatanga on Friday, May 8, 2026, the minister appealed to residents to support contractors with access to local construction materials to ensure the timely completion of projects.
According to him, difficulties in accessing gravel, a key material for road and building construction, have become a major challenge for contractors executing government projects in the Upper East Region.
“One of the problems I have observed as Regional Minister is that contractors are struggling to get gravel. When they identify lands with suitable gravel, the owners often refuse access or demand huge sums beyond what is captured in the contract,” Mr. Atanga said.
The minister warned that such practices risk slowing down development projects, including the newly launched 24-hour market project expected to transform commercial activities and create jobs in Bolgatanga.
“If it is cement or iron rods, the contractor can buy them from the market. But do we expect contractors to travel to the Northern Region to bring gravel to build markets for us here?” he questioned.
Mr. Atanga described the situation as a regional challenge rather than an isolated issue in Bolgatanga, saying almost every district in the Upper East Region is grappling with similar difficulties.
He further criticised what he described as excessive demands by some landowners, claiming some individuals were charging prices “higher than what is provided for in the contract documents.”
“How can a contractor work under such conditions?” he asked.
The minister contrasted the situation with the gesture of chiefs and landowners who released land for the 24-hour market project without demanding compensation.
“Our parents gave out this land for development without taking a pesewa. We must emulate that spirit and support projects that benefit the entire community,” he urged.
The 24-hour market project forms part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader 24-hour economy agenda aimed at stimulating economic activity and reducing youth unemployment.
The facility, expected to be completed within 36 months, will include lockable shops, warehouses, market stalls, a police station, fire service post, pharmacy, cold store, crèche, and a Women’s Bank.
Regional authorities believe the project could become a major commercial hub for the Upper East Region, but the minister cautioned that community cooperation would be critical to delivering the project on schedule.
“If we do not support these projects, they will delay, and eventually people will turn around and blame the government. Development requires collective responsibility,” Mr. Atanga stressed.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Seidu Mutawakil | Bolgatanga
