The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has demanded an explanation from the Government regarding the exclusion of the Upper East Region from the $500 million Ghana Market Access and Connectivity Project (GMACP). This significant initiative, financed by an International Development Association (IDA) credit facility from the World Bank, aims to enhance agricultural market access across Ghana.
The NPP described the omission as unjustified and inconsistent with the project's core objectives. The GMACP seeks to improve agricultural market access by rehabilitating 1,050 kilometres of climate-resilient feeder roads. This infrastructure development is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses, lowering transportation costs, increasing rural incomes, and creating employment opportunities.
This exclusion fits into a broader national discussion about equitable development and resource allocation across Ghana's regions. The Upper East Region, despite its substantial contribution to Ghana's agricultural output, frequently faces challenges with infrastructure development. Ensuring balanced regional development is a key component of Ghana's long-term economic stability and social cohesion. The project's focus on feeder roads highlights the critical link between infrastructure and agricultural productivity, a sector vital to Ghana's economy.
Mr. Peter Ayamga Ayinbisa, the Upper East Regional Communications Director of the NPP, stated this at a press conference in Bolgatanga. He questioned the criteria used for selecting beneficiary regions. Mr. Ayinbisa urged the Upper East Caucus in Parliament to clarify their efforts to secure the region's inclusion in the project. He stressed that the region's development should rise above partisan interests.
The exclusion could lead to significant economic disadvantages for farmers and communities in the Upper East Region. Without improved road networks, farmers will continue to face high transportation costs and limited access to markets. This situation could exacerbate poverty and hinder agricultural growth in key production areas. Decision-makers will need to address these concerns to ensure the project achieves its national development goals.
Mr. Ayinbisa highlighted specific districts facing severe challenges. Builsa South, a major rice and maize-producing area, struggles with transporting produce due to deteriorating feeder roads. Farming communities in the Bongo District, which produce millet, sorghum, and vegetables, also suffer from poor road infrastructure. This undermines productivity and farmers' incomes.
The Bawku enclave, a leading vegetable-producing area for onions, tomatoes, and peppers, also faces significant issues. Poor feeder roads, especially during the rainy season, increase transportation costs and reduce farm-gate prices. This limits market access for thousands of farmers. The NPP cannot reconcile the project's stated objectives with the decision to omit the Upper East Region.
Mr. Ayinbisa appealed to the Government of Ghana and the World Bank to review the beneficiary list. He called for the immediate inclusion of the Upper East Region before the project's implementation. He also urged regional stakeholders, including traditional authorities and civil society organizations, to unite in advocating for the region's inclusion. This collective advocacy is essential for ensuring fairness in the distribution of national development projects.