The Upper East Regional Minister, Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has noted that previous development frameworks and interventions have failed to deliver the level of socio-economic transformation needed to position the region among Ghana’s most developed areas.
Speaking during an engagement with the Upper East Regional branch of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) in Bolgatanga on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Mr. Akamugri defended the introduction of a new regional development framework, saying it is intended to address shortcomings in earlier initiatives and provide a more focused roadmap for economic growth.
According to him, despite benefiting from several development programmes over the years, including interventions under the Savannah Accelerated Development Authority (SADA) and the Northern Development Authority (NDA), the region has yet to achieve its full development potential.
“This programme has come about not because there were no development plans for the region. But all those frameworks have not positioned the Upper East Region where it ought to be,” he said.
Mr. Akamugri explained that the new initiative, being developed in partnership with Channel One TV and the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, will introduce a ten-year blueprint aimed at transforming the Upper East Region into a competitive destination for investment, business and industrial growth.
He disclosed that the proposed Ten-Year Strategic Development Framework (2026–2035) seeks to mobilise about GH¢8.6 billion in public and private sector investments to accelerate sustainable economic development across the region.
“The Ten-Year Strategic Development Framework seeks to mobilise about GH¢8.6 billion in investments to accelerate economic transformation and unlock the vast potential of the region,” he said.
The Minister said a review of existing development plans revealed critical gaps, weaknesses and missed opportunities, which have been incorporated into the new PEARL Framework.
He stressed that development planning must continuously evolve to reflect changing socio-economic realities and emerging opportunities.
“Society is dynamic and frameworks for development are living documents. When situations change, there is the need to update those documents to respond to the changing realities,” he said.
The PEARL Framework — Prosperity through Enterprise, Agriculture, Resilience and Livelihoods — is expected to serve as the cornerstone of the region’s development agenda over the next decade, with a focus on attracting investment, creating jobs, promoting industrial growth and improving livelihoods.
The framework will be officially unveiled at the maiden Upper East Regional Development and Business Forum and Exhibition, which is expected to bring together government officials, investors, development partners and business leaders to explore opportunities for economic collaboration and sustainable development in the region.
