Upper East chiefs pledge support to regional minister during tour

Upper East Regional Minister Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga concluded a series of courtesy calls to paramount chiefs in the region Friday, securing pledges of solidarity and addressing calls for infrastructure upgrades, improved healthcare, and an airport.

The minister’s final stops included meetings with chiefs in Sirigu, Mirigu, and Paga, where traditional leaders praised his appointment and vowed collaboration.

In Sirigu, Paramount Chief Naba Atugudeeya Bugum Zoti Ko’om commended the government for selecting Hon.Akamugri, citing his “hard work over the years.”

He urged swift repairs to the Kandiga-Sirigu road and completion of ongoing culvert projects.

“We are committed to working with you to bring development,” he said.

At Mirigu, the Paramount Chief Naba Anonsona Abisa Anthony Atasige III, declared his community’s unwavering backing.

“Mirigu will stand solidly behind you. The gods will stand by you,” he said, applauding Hon. Akamugri’s openness about his religious identity.

The chief emphasized challenges such as poor roads, limited electrification, and reiterated the region’s longstanding demand for an airport.

In Paga, elders of Paramount Chief Pe Charles Awampaga II pressed for the completion of an Agenda 111 hospital and upgrades to Paga Senior High School to boarding status.

They also echoed calls for an airport to ease travel. Hon. Akamugri outlined plans to fulfill the party’s agricultural modernization pledges, including irrigation projects and mechanization centers.

“The youth’s investment in mechanized boreholes for dry-season farming is commendable,” Hon. Akamugri said, praising Mirigu’s agricultural initiatives.

Also, he noted the DRIP initiative would address road repairs in Sirigu and Mirigu.

Responding to Paga’s education request, he pledged to collaborate with the education minister, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, a fellow northern native, to upgrade it into a boarding school.

The minister had previously visited the paramount chiefs of Bawku, Sakoti, Nangodi, Talensi, Bongo, Zuarungu, Nakong, Kayoro, and Katiu.

Others include Naaga, Navrongo, Kologo, and Sandema.