Northern Ghana can thrive through unity and strategic action —Afenyo-Markin

Northern Ghana’s rich cultural diversity and vital role in Ghana’s agricultural sector must be harnessed through unity and strategic collaboration to drive development, Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin has emphasized.

Speaking at the inaugural Northern Development Conference in Tamale, Mr Afenyo-Markin highlighted the region’s potential for growth and development, citing its contribution of over 40 per cent to Ghana’s agricultural produce.

“We are not just a region; we are the breadbasket of Ghana,” a statement cited by the Ghana News Agency on the Parliament’s Facebook page said on Monday.

It said, “To unlock our full potential, we need increased investment in modern farming, agro-processing, tourism, renewable energy, and other sectors.”

According to the statement, Oaahen Afenyo-Markin, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu, praised the recent inauguration of the Northern Caucus in Parliament, led by Speaker Alban Bagbin, as a milestone that symbolized a collective voice advocating for development initiatives tailored to the region’s needs.

“The Caucus is vital for consolidating the North’s political representation and ensuring that development priorities such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment are championed effectively in national policy and budget allocations,” it said.

The statement noted that the MP acknowledged the region’s persistent challenges, including high poverty rates, poor infrastructure, inadequate access to electricity and clean water, and low educational attainment.

“These intertwined issues have historically marginalized the region, but I am optimistic that, through coordinated action, leadership, and partnerships, the North can break free from these stagnations and realize its developmental potential,” it quoted the Effutu MP as saying.

It urged traditional leaders, youth, politicians, development partners, and investors to unite in pushing for concrete initiatives and sustained efforts.

“Transformational progress requires transparency, accountable governance, and strategic investments in sectors like agriculture, health, education, and entrepreneurship,” it stated.

With collective resolve, the statement noted that the MP believes Northern Ghana could become a beacon of prosperity, peace, and inclusive growth, building not only a better North but a stronger, more united Ghana.

“We can do this. Let us unite and work towards a brighter future for Northern Ghana,” it added.

Source: GNA