Savannah NDC rejects NPP allegations,reaffirms commitment to peace and protection of members

Savannah NDC rejects NPP allegations,reaffirms commitment to peace and protection of members

The Savannah Regional branch of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) has strongly condemned what it describes as the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) "reckless hypocrisy, deliberate distortions, and politically motivated propaganda" regarding recent incidents involving NPP activist Yussif Abdul-Hakim and a prominent NDC supporter popularly known as "Fuzy."

The controversy is reported to have originated from exchanges between the two individuals on TikTok, which subsequently escalated into verbal attacks and counterattacks.

In a strongly worded but measured statement issued by the Savannah Regional Deputy Secretary of the NDC, Mr. Safe Emmanuel Sadari, on behalf of the Regional Secretary and copied to blogger and Freelance Journalist, Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham, the party accused the NPP leadership in the region of engaging in selective condemnation while deliberately ignoring alleged retaliatory attacks against NDC members by Alhassan Fusheini, popularly known as "Rambo," an aspiring NPP Constituency Vice Chairman.

The NDC further alleged that both the Savannah Regional Chairman of the NPP, Alhaji Iddrisu Sulemana, and the party's Regional Secretary, Mr. Issah, had issued contradictory statements and attempted to assign political blame before any credible investigations had been concluded.

According to the NDC, Alhassan Fusheini has a history of alleged attacks against party members in the region, including incidents involving the Assembly Member for the Canteen Electoral Area and the NDC Constituency Youth Organizer.

The party emphasized that it unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, intimidation, threats, destruction of property, and disorderly conduct regardless of the identity of the perpetrators or victims.

"No political colour, personal disagreement, online provocation, or partisan emotion can ever justify unlawful conduct," the statement stressed.

The NDC argued that the silence of the NPP leadership on alleged retaliatory actions by some of its members undermines the credibility of the party’s public posture and raises questions about its commitment to peace, justice, and the rule of law.

The party further accused the NPP of attempting to manufacture a political narrative by prematurely linking individual actions to the NDC before investigations have been completed. It maintained that the conflicting positions adopted by senior NPP officials in the region have weakened the credibility of the party’s communication.

The NDC cautioned against the growing tendency to attribute alleged misconduct by individuals to entire political parties without due process, describing such conduct as irresponsible, dangerous, and harmful to democratic stability and peaceful coexistence.

The statement noted that the NDC would not remain silent while its members are allegedly subjected to false accusations, political attacks, or what it termed a coordinated propaganda campaign.

According to the party, residents of the Savannah Region are capable of distinguishing between genuine security concerns and politically motivated theatrics.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the NDC stated that it remains dedicated to peace, lawful conduct, and constructive political engagement. However, it stressed that its commitment to peace should not be interpreted as weakness.

The party pledged to use every lawful and democratic means available to defend the lives, dignity, rights, and reputation of its members and supporters.

"We will not accept any attempt to intimidate, harass, falsely implicate, or politically assassinate the character of our members for the selfish convenience of others. The NDC in the Savannah Region is fully prepared to defend, protect, and preserve the lives, dignity, and lawful rights of all its members and supporters," the statement said.

The NDC also commended the judiciary for upholding the rule of law through judgments, penalties, and compensation orders issued against Alhaji Rambo in relation to a previous case involving the alleged invasion and destruction of property belonging to the NDC Regional Organizer, Mr. Sorku Yahuza, and other individuals.

Additionally, the party praised the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bikunuto Jewu Soale I, for his intervention and calls for peace, restraint, and responsible political conduct aimed at preserving harmony, stability, and unity within the Savannah Region.

While welcoming calls for peace, the NDC emphasized that justice must be applied fairly and consistently, insisting that accountability should never be influenced by political affiliation.

The party further called on the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough, impartial, and professional investigation into a viral video in which Yussif Abdul-Hakim is allegedly seen making threats against the life of the President of the Republic, John Dramani Mahama.

The NDC described the matter as serious and one that should not be ignored, politicized, or overshadowed by partisan interests.

The party concluded by urging its members and supporters across the Savannah Region to remain calm, disciplined, vigilant, and law-abiding while avoiding unnecessary provocation. It reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing accountability, fairness, and equality before the law through legitimate and democratic means.

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham.

MASLOC CEO Strengthens Financial Inclusion Through Engagement with Market Women in Savannah Region

MASLOC CEO Strengthens Financial Inclusion Through Engagement with Market Women in Savannah Region

The Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) and Deputy National Women's Organizer of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), Madam Abigail Mensah Elorm, has embarked on a working tour of the Savannah Region, engaging market women and traders in Damongo and Sawla.

Accompanied by her two deputies and a team of national MASLOC officials, Madam Elorm held interactive sessions with women traders aimed at deepening their understanding of MASLOC's operations, promoting financial inclusion, and strengthening support for small-scale businesses and women entrepreneurs.

The delegation included the Savannah Regional Women's Organizer of the NDC, Madam Afisha Bawa Dozie; the Damongo Constituency Deputy Women's Organizer, Madam Ayishetu Atomi; the Savannah Regional MASLOC Manager, Mr. Saaka Iddrisu (Togo); and members of the regional MASLOC team, among others.

At Damongo, the CEO and her team educated participants on the various interventions and opportunities available through MASLOC to support small and women-led enterprises.

She outlined the different support modules offered by the Scheme, the processes for accessing funding, the importance of utilizing funds responsibly to expand businesses, and the repayment arrangements available to beneficiaries.

According to Madam Elorm, women can access financial support at an interest rate of just one percent, as well as tricycles, vehicles, and other forms of assistance designed to enhance economic productivity and improve livelihoods.

She encouraged beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds, stressing that prompt repayment remains a key priority under her leadership. She further urged both current and prospective beneficiaries to honour their repayment obligations to sustain the revolving fund and ensure that more individuals can benefit from MASLOC's support in the future.

The engagement, moderated by Hon. Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham, Assembly Member for the Canteen Electoral Area, provided an open platform for participants to seek clarification on a wide range of issues. Questions centered on categories of support available, loan recovery mechanisms, eligibility requirements for both groups and individuals, and proposals for annual repayment schedules instead of monthly repayments.

Madam Elorm took time to address each concern comprehensively and assured the women of the continuous availability and commitment of the MASLOC team to support their growth and success.

As part of the exercise, a registration window was opened for potential beneficiaries interested in accessing MASLOC's interventions.

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham (AB)

Stitching new industrial future: how two textile hubs could redefine Ghana’s economy - Dr. Sanusi Zankawah explains

Stitching new industrial future: how two textile hubs could redefine Ghana’s economy - Dr. Sanusi Zankawah explains 

Dr. Sanusi Zankawah, a Ghanaian international trade expert, believes Ghana is standing before a rare and strategic opportunity to reassert itself as a continental leader in textile and apparel manufacturing.

According to him, a proposal to establish two major textile factories - one in the Ashanti Region and the other in the Savannah Region - presents a bold yet practical pathway to economic transformation. Beyond industrial growth, the initiative, he notes, holds the promise of sustainable job creation across the north - south corridor while strengthening foreign exchange earnings and reducing import dependence.

Dr. Zankawah explains that the choice of locations is neither accidental nor symbolic alone. The Ashanti Region and Northern Ghana are globally recognised for Kente and fugu, respectively - two iconic fabrics that carry deep cultural prestige and an unrivalled brand identity within Africa’s textile heritage. These traditions, he argues, offer Ghana a powerful competitive advantage in the global fashion market.

By strategically linking the two factories, Ghana could build a fully integrated textile value chain - from cotton cultivation and yarn production to weaving, fabric finishing, garment manufacturing, and export. Such an approach would significantly boost local value addition, anchor rural and urban employment, and position the country as a credible and competitive player in global apparel manufacturing.

In Dr. Zankawah’s view is that this dual-factory model is more than an industrial proposal; it is a practical blueprint for blending culture, agriculture, and manufacturing into a sustainable export-driven industry.

Read the full statement below:

A Dual-Factory Solution: How Ashanti and Savannah Can Anchor Ghana’s Next Big Export Industry

Ghana stands at a defining moment where cultural heritage, agricultural potential, and industrial ambition can converge to create a powerful new economic pillar. With global demand rising for ethically sourced, culturally inspired, and competitively manufactured textiles, the country has a unique opportunity to establish itself as a leading apparel producer in Africa. The proposal to set up two major textile factories, one in the Ashanti Region and the other in the Savannah Region offers an ambitious yet realistic pathway to transform the economy, increase foreign exchange earnings, and create sustainable jobs across the north–south corridor.

The Ashanti Region and Savannah/Northern Ghana are globally associated with the elegance and prestige of kente and Fugu respectively, possessing a cultural brand unmatched in Africa’s textile landscape. Kente and Fugu has transcended borders, appearing in global fashion shows, diaspora events, and international media. Yet despite the visibility remains under-industrialized and largely confined to artisanal production. Establishing a modern textile and apparel factory in Ashanti and Savannah region creates the platform for Ghana to pair its cultural heritage with world-class manufacturing standards. The factory would not only scale up Kente/Fugu-inspired designs but also produce a wide range of contemporary, globally competitive apparel that aligns with international fashion trends, seasonal collections, and mass-market demand. This ensures that Ghana is not limited to traditional fabrics alone but directly competes with foreign-made garments that dominate the domestic market and global shelves.

Complementing this effort is the Savannah Region, where fertile lands make it Ghana’s most promising zone for large-scale cotton cultivation. Cotton is the lifeblood of any serious textile industry, and Ghana’s dependence on imported lint and yarn has long weakened its competitiveness. Establishing a cotton processing and textile mill in Savannah will address this challenge by producing the raw materials needed to feed domestic factories. Beyond cotton, Savannah is also the homeland of the iconic smock, a fabric whose authenticity and rugged beauty continue to gain global attention. A modernized smock production system will allow Ghana to upgrade quality, standardize output, and develop export-ready smock apparel lines.

By linking these two factories, Ghana can create a complete value chain, from cotton farming to yarn production, weaving, fabric finishing, apparel manufacturing, and export. This integrated model drastically reduces import dependency, increases local value addition, and positions Ghana as a credible player in global fashion manufacturing.

Crucially, these factories will serve a broader purpose beyond cultural exports. They will be designed to produce a wide spectrum of apparel that competes directly with imported garments from Asia, Europe, and the Americas. From casual wear and uniforms to corporate clothing, sportswear, and fashion capsules, Ghana can build a manufacturing base capable of supplying both domestic and export markets. This is how countries such as Kenya, Mauritius, Ethiopia, Morocco, Madagascar, and Lesotho built apparel sectors that now supply major global brands. Their success demonstrates that Africa can indeed compete internationally when supported by the right policies and production capabilities.

With the right infrastructure and industrial standards, Ghana can replicate and even exceed these achievements. A combined Ashanti–Savannah textile axis will not only create products; it will create confidence. It will signal to international fashion brands that Ghana is a serious contender in the global apparel supply chain. The availability of quality cotton, skilled labour, design innovation, and modern production facilities will make Ghana an attractive sourcing destination for renowned fashion houses looking for ethical, African, and sustainable materials. Over time, Ghana could become a regional hub where global brands establish sourcing offices, contract local manufacturers, or even relocate parts of their production lines to take advantage of Ghana’s stability, logistics access, and emerging industrial ecosystem.

The economic impact would be extensive. Textile and apparel value chains are labour-intensive, creating jobs at every stage, from thousands of farmers cultivating cotton in the Savannah Region to technicians, weavers, tailors, designers, quality controllers, and logistics professionals in Ashanti. Young people, especially women, stand to benefit enormously from this industrial expansion. Moreover, the shift from exporting raw or low-value products to exporting finished garments will significantly increase foreign exchange earnings and diversify the national export basket. By complementing cocoa, gold, and oil with a strong manufacturing export base, Ghana strengthens its economic resilience and reduces vulnerability to global commodity fluctuations.

A supportive policy environment is essential to unlock this vision. This includes reviving cotton production through seed improvement and guaranteed offtake, offering tax incentives to textile manufacturers, establishing industrial parks with reliable energy, and creating certification labs to meet U.S. and European export standards. Equally important is a national branding agenda, promoting “Made in Ghana Textiles” as a symbol of authenticity, quality, and creativity.

Ultimately, the dual-factory strategy is more than an industrial development initiative. It represents a new era of economic identity for Ghana, one that merges cultural pride with modern competitiveness. With Ashanti driving design and finishing, and Savannah supplying raw materials and weaving strength, Ghana can position itself as a preferred African hub for textile and apparel manufacturing. The country will not only export kente and smock but also produce globally competitive garments that rival foreign imports and attract international brands seeking sustainable African partnerships.

If executed boldly, this model could define Ghana’s next major export industry, one that elevates local talent, boosts national earnings, empowers regions, and projects Ghanaian creativity onto the world stage like never before.

By Sanusi Zankawah (PhD)

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham

Ghana Armed Forces College honours Buipewura Jinapor II with landmark leadership study

Ghana Armed Forces College honours Buipewura Jinapor II with landmark leadership study

The Buipe Traditional Area, in partnership with the National House of Chiefs, has received a rare and distinguished academic honour following a leadership study conducted on His Royal Majesty Jira Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II by the Ghana Armed Forces College (GAFC).

The study, formally presented on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in Accra, was undertaken by Student Officers of the GAFC and submitted to the military high command before being conferred on the Buipewura. It offered a comprehensive examination of his life journey, leadership philosophy, governance approach, and contributions to national and traditional administration.

This recognition marks one of the few instances in Ghana’s history where a premier military training institution has devoted its scholarly resources to the leadership of a traditional ruler. In doing so, the Ghana Armed Forces underscored the enduring relevance of chieftaincy institutions within the broader framework of national governance and security.

The honour places Buipewura Jinapor II among a distinguished group of eminent national figures whose leadership has been subjected to similar academic inquiry by the Ghana Armed Forces. Notable among them are Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and Otumfuo Prempeh I of the Asante Kingdom.

The GAFC study provided an objective and detailed assessment of the Buipewura’s leadership, with particular focus on his role in conflict resolution and peace-building across the Northern and Savannah Regions. It also examined the evolving relationship between traditional authority and modern governance, especially his work as Vice President of the National House of Chiefs, as well as socio-economic development initiatives within the Buipe Traditional Area.

According to the leadership of the Ghana Armed Forces, the study is intended to enrich the strategic outlook of future military leaders by deepening their understanding of how traditional institutions contribute to national cohesion, security, and sustainable development.

In his acceptance remarks, HRM Jira Buipewura Abdulai Jinapor II expressed profound gratitude for the honour, describing it as both an affirmation of service and a renewed call to duty. He noted that the recognition highlights the continuing importance of traditional leadership in fostering stability, democratic governance, and development.

He further reaffirmed his commitment to national service, stating that the insights from the study would inform his future leadership decisions. The Buipewura also pledged to strengthen collaboration between traditional authorities and Ghana’s security institutions in the shared pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development.

 

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham

J.S. Rhule Initiatives Donates Classroom Block To Punpunie-Ahanta West Municipal

J.S. Rhule Initiatives Donates Classroom Block To Punpunie-Ahanta West Municipal

The community of Punpunie in the Ahanta West Municipality came alive on 22nd September 2025, as residents, education officials, and community leaders gathered to commission a newly constructed three-unit classroom block to serve pupils of the Punpunie D/A Basic School and adjoining communities, including Enuohu.

The commissioning marks a major milestone in the quest to bridge educational infrastructure gaps in the area.

Reflecting on the project’s journey, the initiator, Miss Janet-Stephanie Rhule, recalled a previous visit to the community, where she was deeply moved by the poor state of the school’s facilities. At the time, pupils attended classes in a two-unit block propped up by wooden pillars, with mud walls and bare floors - a structure that barely withstood the rains.

“Together, we resolved to change that story,” she shared. “By the grace of God and through steady efforts, we have brought this project to fruition. This experience has taught me that even the smallest step toward change can yield a lasting impact.”

As part of the commissioning ceremony, pupils were also provided with educational stationery to support their learning.

The newly completed block, she emphasized, is more than a building - it is a symbol of hope and belief in the potential of the Punpunie child. “It represents our conviction that every child deserves an environment that nurtures their dreams and allows their destinies to unfold,” she said.

Drawing inspiration from her late father, a lifelong teacher, she remarked that no institution transforms lives more powerfully than education. She reaffirmed her commitment to continue supporting the community to ensure that every child in Punpunie is well-prepared to meet the challenges of an ever-evolving world.

The handing-over ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including Miss Janet-Stephanie Ekua Etrewba Rhule, Founder of the J.S. Rhule Initiatives, the Deputy Director of Education at the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly, Elders of the community, the Headmistress and staff of the school, parents and guardians, volunteers of the foundation, and the pupils themselves - all joining in celebration of a brighter educational future for Punpunie.

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham

Bunyanso Farms Cashew Plantation Pioneers Agri-Tourism Excellence in the Savannah Region

Bunyanso Farms Cashew Plantation Pioneers Agri-Tourism Excellence in the Savannah Region

Bunyanso Farms Cashew Plantation Agri-Tourism Enterprise, a fast-rising model of integrated agriculture and tourism in the Savannah Region, is redefining the concept of sustainable rural development through its unique blend of farming, hospitality, and cultural education.

Situated in the heart of Bunyanso, the enterprise offers visitors a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience life on a working farm while exploring the diverse agricultural and cultural heritage of the area.

Farm Activities and Experiences:

At Bunyanso Farms, visitors are invited to actively participate in farm life through U-Pick operations, where they can harvest cashew fruits, shea fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The farm also features seasonal corn mazes and pumpkin patches, creating fun, family-friendly outdoor experiences.

Animal lovers can delight in the petting zoos and animal exhibits, which provide interactive sessions with farm animals, including bees, while the wine and farm tours offer guided visits with tastings and live demonstrations of local processing techniques.

Culinary enthusiasts can join cooking classes, learning to prepare authentic dishes made from fresh farm produce, while harvest festivals bring the community together in celebration with food, music, and cultural performances.

Accommodation and Recreation:

For those seeking an extended stay, the farm offers farm stays and camping facilities, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts can also engage in beekeeping training, cashew harvesting and processing, and the transformation of cashew apples into jam, juice, and kebabs - an exciting showcase of value addition.

Educational and Cultural Experiences:

Beyond leisure, Bunyanso Farms serves as a learning hub through its demonstration farms, which highlight best practices in cashew cultivation and sustainable agriculture. The enterprise regularly hosts workshops and training sessions on agricultural innovation, local crafts, and agribusiness development.

Visitors also enjoy cultural tours, which celebrate the rich traditions, customs, and agricultural history of the Savannah Region, offering a deeper appreciation of the area’s heritage.

Contact Information:

For inquiries and bookings, kindly contact:

Mr. Sumani Iddrisu

Owner and Chief Executive Officer,

Bunyanso Farms Cashew Plantation Agri-Tourism Enterprise

📞 0243564356 / 0203514956

📧 bunyansofarms@gmail.com

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham

MP for Yapei-Kusawgu Revamps Yapei Polyclinic and Launches ₵1 Million Annual Tertiary Scholarship for Constituents

MP for Yapei-Kusawgu Revamps Yapei Polyclinic and Launches ₵1 Million Annual Tertiary Scholarship for Constituents

As part of his working visit to the Yapei Kusawgu Constituency, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, Member of Parliament for the area and Minister for Energy and Green Transition, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving the lives of his people through significant interventions in both healthcare and education.

During a visit to the Yapei Polyclinic followed keenly by Freelance Jounalist, Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham, the Hon. Minister donated a wide range of essential medical supplies to the facility, aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and improving patient outcomes. The donated items included hospital beds, wheelchairs, drip stands, delivery beds, and other vital non-consumables.

Hon. Jinapor emphasized that the initiative forms part of his broader commitment to strengthening the healthcare system across the constituency. He charged the management of the facility to put the items to good use and maintain them properly to ensure their longevity and sustained benefit to patients.

In addition, the Minister announced plans to construct a modern theatre for the Yapei Polyclinic, further reinforcing the facility’s capacity to handle complex medical cases and reduce referrals. He also extended financial support of ₵10,000 to the staff welfare fund of the Polyclinic to motivate healthcare workers in their daily service to the community.

Representatives of the YapeiWura, the Yapei Youth Association for Development, and the medical superintendent of the Polyclinic expressed profound appreciation to Hon. Jinapor for his swift response to their needs and his consistent commitment to the well-being of the people of Yapei and surrounding communities.

Accompanied by constituency and branch executives, the MP’s visit to the Polyclinic underscored his dedication to quality healthcare delivery in the Yapei Kusawgu area.

In a related development, Hon. Jinapor also launched a ₵1 million annual tertiary scholarship scheme for students within the constituency, demonstrating his long-standing belief in education as a key driver of development.

The new scholarship scheme builds on his earlier initiative, which provided ₵200,000 annually to support tertiary students from the constituency. The enhanced ₵1 million fund seeks to alleviate the financial burden on parents and provide opportunities for brilliant but needy students to access higher education.

Speaking at the launch, Hon. Jinapor noted that many young people have been forced to abandon their educational aspirations due to financial challenges. The new scholarship, he said, is designed to remove such barriers and enable more students to achieve their academic and professional dreams.

Beyond the tertiary level, the MP has made considerable investments in other educational interventions; including the rehabilitation of school buildings, provision of classroom furniture, distribution of mathematical sets to BECE candidates, and organization of mock examinations to adequately prepare students for their final exams.

In the informal education sector, Hon. Jinapor has established a skills training center to empower artisans, dressmakers, and other tradespeople, ensuring inclusive development across the constituency.

These interventions, both in health and education, reflect Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor’s holistic approach to human capital development and his enduring vision to build a healthier, better-educated, and more prosperous Yapei Kusawgu Constituency.

Source: Ananpansah Bartholomew Abraham