President John Dramani Mahama confirmed significant progress in Ghana's economy, stating his government has made strides in turning fortunes around. He shared this update with the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs on July 8, 2026, during their visit to the Presidency in Accra. This economic recovery underpins plans for targeted development initiatives across the country.
The visiting delegation, led by Kuoro Issaka Zengeh Kazie Tenjie II, congratulated President Mahama on his recent electoral victory. They specifically thanked him for various development projects initiated in the Upper West Region over the past eighteen months. These projects highlight the government's commitment to regional growth and addressing local needs.
This engagement aligns with the government's broader strategy to reset Ghana's economy and restore public confidence. The 2026 budget focuses heavily on agricultural and industrial growth, infrastructure development, and export capacity building. These efforts are crucial for creating jobs and building an economy that benefits all Ghanaians, regardless of their location. The President emphasized that traditional rulers play a vital role in national development.
President Mahama noted the Upper West Region's critical importance as a gateway to Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region. This positions it as a hub for cross-border commerce under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He further stated that the region possesses tremendous opportunities in agricultural livestock, shea nut processing, and renewable energy.
The President highlighted specific initiatives for the Upper West Region, including the recently launched Shea Park Resource Center. This centre aims to position Ghana as a leading producer of high-quality shea products, supporting women who are integral to the shea value chain. He announced plans to budget for 11 Farmers' Service Centres this year, with one located in the Upper West Region. These centres will support local processing and value addition of products like raw shea nuts.
Under the Big Push Infrastructure Program, specific priority projects for the Upper West Region include the rehabilitation and upgrading of major trunk roads. President Mahama assured the chiefs that a special Phase II of the Big Push Programme is being scoped for next year to include additional road projects. He affirmed that the Upper West Region will receive its fair share of national development investments.
Kuoro Issaka Zengeh Kazie Tenjie II, President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, appealed to the government to codify the succession of the Chieftaincy institution. He also requested buses for the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs and the renovation of their administrative block. These appeals reflect ongoing needs at the traditional governance level.
The President reaffirmed the government's commitment to being a reliable partner in the Upper West Region’s development. He praised the House of Chiefs for maintaining peace in the region, particularly amidst security challenges in the wider Sahel area. This focus on peace and stability is a foundational element for achieving economic prosperity and regional trade.