By Adnan Adams Mohammed
Signaling a strong pivot toward commercial stabilization in the Upper East Region, President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled a comprehensive development package designed to de-risk the local economy and stimulate cross-border trade.
The government’s blueprint centers on a GH¢1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund, backed by guaranteed domestic financing for stalled transport and healthcare infrastructure.
The newly announced revitalization fund serves as seed capital to revive local enterprises and upgrade municipal infrastructure, presenting a renewed opportunity for private sector engagement.
“The Bawku Revitalisation Fund will focus on driving economic recovery, promoting peace, and empowering communities,” President Mahama stated during his regional tour. “We are committed to addressing the underlying socio-economic challenges in the area and ensuring that Bawku regains its status as a thriving commercial hub.”
Supply chain logistics and contractor guarantees
For logistics and construction investors, the immediate resumption of work on the 118-kilometer Bolgatanga-Bawku-Pulmakom highway marks a critical milestone. The route is a vital artery connecting Ghana’s markets to neighboring Burkina Faso and Togo.
To restore contractor confidence, the government has shifted financing for the highway away from vulnerable external loans, committing direct domestic budgetary resources to ensure uninterrupted progress.
“Although this project does not fall directly under the Big Push Programme, it is an associated Big Push project, and any certificates raised will be honoured promptly,” President Mahama assured Queiroz Galvão Construction (QGMI). “I assure you that your payments will be made on time so you can complete this project on schedule.”
Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, confirmed that initial arrears have already been cleared, enabling the rapid remobilization of heavy equipment to the Zuarungu bridge site. “We have moved away from loan dependency and secured direct funding commitments,” Agbodza noted, emphasizing that the contractor will not abandon the site again.
Healthcare procurement opportunities
The region’s infrastructure overhaul also extends to the health sector. President Mahama announced the resumption of the stalled Agenda 111 hospital project, alongside plans to construct an entirely new health facility in Bawku. This dual commitment signals upcoming procurement opportunities for medical equipment suppliers, civil sub-contractors, and facility management firms aiming to operate in the growing northern corridor.
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