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S/R: Ghana Wildlife Society Plants over 600 Native Trees in Keni-Keni Forest Reserve

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As part of efforts to restore Ghana’s natural ecosystems and improve livelihoods, the Ghana Wildlife Society (GWS), a nature conservation-focused NGO, has planted over 600 native trees in the Keni-Keni Forest Reserve near Kabampe and Kananto in the West Gonja Municipality. The activity forms part of an initiative to restore degraded areas of the Keni-Keni Forest Reserve through native tree planting.

The planting exercise, which took place on Friday, May 30, 2025, was carried out by men and women from the Kabampe and Kananto Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs).

Speaking to the media during the event, Prof. Erasmus Owusu, Council Member of the Ghana Wildlife Society, explained that the tree planting aims to bridge a gap in CREMA coverage stretching from Kabampe and Kananto through to Larabanga. The goal is to create a contiguous buffer around Mole National Park through the CREMA model to enhance conservation efforts.

_“This initiative is strategically designed to include a variety of indigenous species such as Dawadawa, Mahogany, and Tamarind, among others. The aim is to diversify the ecosystem and avoid monoculture,”_ Prof. Owusu said.

He noted that the Ghana Wildlife Society, through its partnership with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) in the UK, secured funding from the Ecological Restoration Fund (ERF) to implement the project. The initiative seeks to enhance ecosystem functions through native tree planting, which will improve oxygen production, stabilise the climate, and increase biodiversity.

Prof. Owusu also highlighted the project’s emphasis on community-based livelihood interventions, including beekeeping. _“This not only supports community income generation but also promotes pollination of key economic trees like shea,”_ he added.

Dr. Jo Gilbert, Director of the International Department at RSPB, in a brief remark before the planting exercise, emphasised the multiple benefits of trees. _“Trees provide essential habitats for birds, contribute to climate regulation, and offer significant value to communities,”_ she said. She encouraged community members of Kabampe and Kananto to nurture the trees planted and should reach out to the Ghana Wildlife Society and Mole National Park for support.

Also addressing the media, Mr. Wenceslas Gatarabirwa, Head of Flyway Conservation at RSPB, described the tree planting as a critical first step in a long-term community-led landscape conservation effort.

_“We are taking a long-term approach that aligns with the CREMA model. The trees planted today are expected to grow, bear fruit, produce seeds, and support the productivity of shea trees, ultimately benefiting local communities,”_ he stated.

Highlighting the importance of trees to bird species and ecological balance, Mr. Gatarabirwa warned of the consequences of species extinction. _“Birds play vital ecological roles. For example, vultures help clean up carcasses, preventing the spread of diseases. Smaller birds control insect populations such as mosquitoes, thereby reducing the prevalence of diseases like malaria,”_ he explained.

West Gonja MCE Supports Larabanga Islamic Senior High School with Food Donation

In a heartwarming display of community support, the Municipal Chief Executive for West Gonja Municipal Assembly, Hon. Yakubu Yussif Castro, has donated 50 bags of 50kg maize to Larabanga Islamic Senior High School. The donation, which took place on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the school premises, aims to alleviate the food shortages faced by the institution.

During a visit to the school, Hon. Castro was informed about the challenges faced by the students, including food shortages. Prompted by this information, the MCE liaised with the Municipal Coordinating Director and the Municipal Director of Agriculture to find a solution. The donation of 50 bags of maize is a significant step towards addressing the food needs of the students.

Hon. Castro emphasized the importance of supporting students, stating, “It’s difficult to study on an empty stomach. A hungry man is an angry man, and children cannot cope with learning if they’re hungry.” He assured the school administration that more aid would be forthcoming in due course.

(Cue audio, MCE donation to Labisco)

The Headteacher of Larabanga Islamic Senior High School, Mr. Seidu Danaba, expressed gratitude for the donation, which he described as a great relief. He explained that the school had been facing food shortages, and the recent donation would go a long way in improving teaching and learning among the students.

As a relatively new school, established by the Nana Addo government as a promise made by former Vice President Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia during a campaign tour to Larabanga, Larabanga Islamic Senior High School has been working tirelessly to provide quality education to its students. The school admitted its first batch of students in 2024 and has since experienced rapid growth.

Mr. Danaba appealed for more support in terms of human resources, infrastructure, and teaching and learning materials. He specifically called on indigenes and natives of Larabanga to support the school massively and uphold its image to match existing schools in the municipality and region.

(Cue audio, Mr. Danaba-Food donation)

The donation by Hon. Castro is a testament to the commitment of the West Gonja Municipal Assembly to support education in the area. As the school continues to grow, it’s essential for stakeholders to come together to provide the necessary resources and support to ensure the students receive the best possible education.

The MCE’s donation has brought hope to the students and teachers of Larabanga Islamic Senior High School. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of others. As the school year progresses, it’s expected that more support will be forthcoming to help the students achieve their academic goals.

S/R: Catholic Diocese of Damongo Cut Sod For the Construction ofa New Hospital at Kalba.

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The Damongo Diocese of Catholic Church has cut Sod For the upgrading of the St. Joseph Health Center into a primary level hospital in the Kalba community of the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of Savannah Region.

The sod cutting was done by the Vicar General Rev. Fr Martin Mousayir on behalf of the Bishop of Damongo Diocese Most Rev. Peter Paul Angkyier on Wednesday 28th May, 2025 in Kalba at the premises of St. Joseph Health Center.

In a welcome address, the Diocesan Director for Health Service Mr. Aiden Ngmenbon said the upgrading of the St. Joseph Health Center to a primary level hospital in Kalba holds enormous promise for the local community and that it means access to more comprehensive, higher-quality healthcare services closer to homes, reducing cost of travel and travel time to higher level service delivery points saving precious lives.

Mr Aiden also added that the construction of the new hospital in Kalba brings an opportunity to their dedicated staff to serve with improved tools and infrastructure, thereby enhancing their capacity and moral.

“For our traditional authorities particularly our revered Kalbawura, who have long advocated for better health services, this development affairms that their voices have been heard”. Mr Aiden said.

The Damongo Diocesan Director of Health Service called on the central government through the DCE of Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, the MP, the Savannah Regional Minister and the Savannah Regional Health Director to continue its unwavering collaboration with the Catholic Diocese of Damongo to serve the needs of the people, not just in infrastructure but also in staffing, logistics, and operational financing.

The Diocesan Development Coordinator Rev. Fr Sylvester Kuubetersur in his speech said the Sod cutting is the beginning of the first phase of a three-year project, totaling over 7.2 million Ghana Cedis, the equivalent of over 415 thousand euros, when completed.

According to Fr. Sylvester these will include most of the essential infrastructure and equipment of the hospital.

The DCE for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Hon. Saaka Sinkina who was present at the sod cutting commended the Diocesan Health Directorate of the Damongo Diocese for the initiative and said the upgrade will enhance access to quality healthcare, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic growth.

The DCE for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District added that it is the mandate of the central government to provide affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare delivery to all citizens of the country, especially the deprived communities and u derprivileged children in the society.

According him, because government cannot do this alone, there are non-governmental organizations and supportive religious groups like the Catholic Church that compliments government in the delivery of quality healthcare to the people.

The Sawla-Tuna-Kalba DCE said as an assembly, they are committed in investing in quality healthcare delivery in the district as they have already constructed an OPD, a theater, supplied beds and mattress and a Doctor’s bungalow at Gindabour, an OPD at Tuna and procured two motorbikes to the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Health Directorate.

The DCE promised that they will continue to support the healthcare needs of the people in the district.

The Mole Organic Landscape Enterprise (MOLE) Project: Empowering Farmers and Transforming Cassava Value Chain in Mole Ecological Landscape

OVERVIEW
The Mole Organic Cassava Enterprise Project is a ground-breaking initiative aimed at developing a sustainable, organic cassava value chain with maximum impact in the northern savannah ecological zone, particularly in communities around Mole National Park. Spearheaded by A Rocha Ghana, Green Acres and partners within the OM4D framework, the project integrated organic farming principles, community empowerment, gender inclusion, and market linkages to transform cassava production, processing, and marketing for improved livelihoods and environmental sustainability. Cassava is a staple crop for millions of Ghanaians and a critical source of income for smallholder farmers in Northern Ghana. The Mole Organic Landscape Enterprise (MOLE) project sought to shift traditional cassava farming into organic production systems, thereby opening access to premium markets locally and internationally. The project prioritized ecological practices, capacity building, inclusive value addition, and rigorous certification processes to build a resilient and profitable organic cassava value chain.

KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
1. Successful Adoption of Organic Farming Practices
Farmers in the Mole area have embraced organic farming with remarkable enthusiasm and determination. Starting in 2019 with just 66 contract signed farmers across three communities, cultivating approximately 39.72 hectares, the project has experienced impressive growth. By 2024, it had enrolled 819 farmers in 10 communities, cultivating an estimated area of 355.36 hectares, with production yields of 66.2 tonnes of dried cassava chips. With continuous hands-on training and regular field support, farmers have successfully transitioned from conventional methods to sustainable organic practices. These include strategic crop rotation, the use of cover crops, natural pest control techniques, and the application of approved organic inputs. This shift has significantly enhanced soil health, increased productivity, and demonstrated that organic farming is both environmentally sustainable and economically viable. The project’s participatory approach has also strengthened community cohesion, encouraging the formation of farmer groups and collective action toward organic certification. This structure has promoted peer monitoring, and a shared commitment to producing clean, high-quality food for both local and international markets.

2. Farmer Training and Capacity Building
The MOLE Project has made significant strides in building the capacity of local farmers through targeted training and contractual engagement. Farmers have been equipped with knowledge and skills in organic farming methods, including appropriate site selection, crop rotation strategies, natural pest and disease control, and sustainable soil and water management techniques. As a result of this training, farmers have adopted improved weed control measures, reduced reliance on synthetic chemicals, and embraced eco-friendly practices such as cover cropping and composting. These changes have led to healthier crops, lower pest and disease incidence, and improved soil fertility.

3. Certification and Compliance Systems
The project has established robust systems to maintain organic certification standards. An Internal Control System (ICS) has been introduced to support farmer registration, farm mapping, record-keeping, and internal inspections, key elements for ensuring organic integrity and readiness for external audits. The project also partners with Community Resource Management Areas (CREMAs), which serve as certificate holders. This fosters local ownership and accountability in managing certification processes. To uphold the standards, the project enforces strict risk management protocols, including measures to prevent chemical contamination from adjacent farms, ensure group discipline, and remove non-compliant members from certification groups.

4. Institutional Strengthening and Strategic Partnerships
The deployment of dedicated field officers and processing instructors, sourced from local communities and partner organizations, has enhanced technical support, quality assurance, and farmer engagement. Trained Community Internal Supervisors (CIS) monitor compliance, promote knowledge sharing, and reinforce local ownership. Strategic partnerships with the Department of Agriculture and private sector actors have further strengthened the support system for organic cassava development.

5. Community Processing Facilities
The MOLE project has enhanced cassava processing by establishing hygienic drying platforms, storage facilities, and community-based processing centers. Two modern facilities in Murugu and Bawena now produce premium cassava flour and grits that meet market and organic certification standards. These centers drive local economic growth by adding value, minimizing post-harvest losses, and creating employment opportunities.

6. Market Development and Linkages
The MOLE project has catalyzed a remarkable transformation in the cassava value chain by strengthening market access and establishing strategic linkages. Central to this success is the partnership with Green Acres Farms Limited, which aggregates and purchases organically grown cassava directly from local farmers across the landscape. Green Acres Farms plays a pivotal role by contracting farmers and providing technical support to ensure compliance with organic standards. In a major boost to local processing capacity, the company, in collaboration with the Government of Ghana, has secured a modern cassava processing facility under the One District, One Factory (1D1F) initiative in Damongo in the Savannah Region of Ghana. This facility now processes cassava into high-quality grits, which are professionally packaged and labeled to meet both domestic and export market standards. To build a fair and inclusive trading system, the project has introduced transparent pricing structures tied to quality and quantity, along with honest weighing and prompt cash payments. To reduce post-harvest losses and streamline logistics, community-based collection centers have been established and connected to reliable transport services, ensuring efficient movement of cassava products from farm to factory. Furthermore, in alignment with sustainable production principles, Green Acres Farms collaborates with the Integrated Recycling and Compost Plant (IRECOP) in Damongo to process cassava by-products, such as peels, into animal feed and compost, promoting a zero-waste model within the processing chain.

7. Empowerment of Women in Cassava Processing
The project has played a transformative role in empowering women by organizing them into dedicated cassava processing groups. These groups are actively engaged in peeling, drying, and producing high-quality cassava grits, adhering to strict hygiene and quality standards. Through this initiative, women have gained valuable skills, access to income-generating opportunities, and increased recognition in the cassava value chain. By placing women at the center of processing activities, the project not only enhances household incomes but also promotes gender inclusion and community development. The establishment of structured group operations has strengthened collective bargaining power, improved product consistency, and created a supportive environment for women to thrive as value chain actors.

IMPACT ON LIVELIHOODS AND ENVIRONMENT
The MOLE Project has improved household incomes through premium pricing of organic products, enhanced food security and nutrition by promoting crop diversification and better family diets, and contributed to environmental conservation by encouraging agro-ecological farming practices that reduce soil degradation and increase biodiversity. Women’s empowerment and youth engagement have been significant, with women gaining leadership roles in processing and marketing, and youth benefiting from training and farm activities.

CHALLENGES AND WAY FORWARD
The MOLE project aims to scale up organic cassava production, diversify into other organic crops, and strengthen farmer cooperatives for improved market access and resilience. Despite significant progress, key challenges remain, including expanding organic adoption, sustaining group cohesion, side-selling, accessing broader markets, and securing reliable financing for certification, infrastructure, and transport logistics. The project, however, will focus on deepening partnerships, securing modest investments, and improving value addition and logistics within existing capacities.

CONCLUSION
The Mole Organic Landscape Enterprise Project demonstrates an innovative and integrated model for rural transformation. By combining sustainable agriculture, household economic empowerment, inclusive market access, and community-led certification, the project strengthens environmental stewardship while enhancing local livelihoods. This holistic approach offers a scalable and replicable pathway for building resilient and sustainable rural economies.

Minister of Education Donates Vehicle to Savannah College of Education

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In a significant gesture of support for tertiary education, the Minister of Education Hon. Haruna Iddrisu has donated an ISUZU pickup to the Savannah College of Education.

The vehicle was presented to the college by the Director-General of Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof. Ahmed Jinapor Abdulai on behalf of the education minister on Friday May, 23, 2025.

In a brief statement before the handing over of the vehicle, Prof Abdulai said the vehicle was leased to the college under strict conditions, and is intended for official use only, emphasizing that the institution must ensure the vehicle is used solely for its designated purposes, including the immediate recruitment of a driver if one is not already available.

“This donation reflects our commitment to fostering growth in tertiary institutions, particularly those serving underserved communities,” said Prof. Abdulai. “We urge the college to adhere to the terms of the agreement to ensure the vehicle serves its intended purpose effectively.”

“GTEC remains dedicated to collaborating with educational institutions to address their needs and promote excellence in tertiary education across Ghana” Prof Abdulai Added.

The Principal of the Savannah College of Education Dr. Musah Ekpampo accompanied by Tandamwura Alhaji Amin a subchief of Daboya who represented the Yagbonwura recieved the vehicle on behalf of the college and expressed profound gratitude to the education minister for the support, acknowledging the critical role of the Honorable Minister of Education and GTEC in addressing the institution’s needs.

Dr. Ekpampo highlighted the challenges the college faced due to logistical constraints and commended the swift response to their appeal.

The Savannah College of Education, a community-based institution supported by traditional authorities, plays a vital role in education within the Gonja Kingdom. The vehicle is expected to enhance the college’s administrative and logistical capabilities, furthering its mission to deliver quality education.

Article: End Obstetric Fistula: Every Woman Deserves Dignity – Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Kantamah

As we commemorate the international Day to End Obstetric Fistula, I am reminded of the challenges faced by women in our communities, one story stands out – a resilient woman from Malkayir a farming  community under  Gindabo in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, still living with fistula for over 30 years after an unsuccessful attempt to repair it.

Despite losing the baby and her struggles with incontinence, stigma, and isolation, she’s endured with strength and courage. Her journey has been marked by abandonment, hurtful words, and difficulties in accessing care.

I recall in the year 2015 I carried her on a motorbike to Wa Municipal Hospital to seek specialist help, and the challenges we faced together but to no avail. The smell of faecal matter and urine made it hard for her to interact with others, and even public transport became a daunting task.

Today, I’m heartened to learn that Wa Regional Hospital is offering free fistula repair services this month and I’ve arranged transportation for her to access this care, and I pray that this opportunity brings her the healing and dignity she deserves.

This experience highlights the need for awareness, support, and accessible healthcare for women living with fistula. Let’s work together to create a more compassionate and inclusive community, where every woman can live with dignity and respect.

Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Kantamah Nuhu
Deputy Chief Physician Assistant

Savannah GPRTU Implements 15% Reduction in Transport Fares

In a significant development for commuters in the Savannah Region, the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has announced a 15% reduction in transport fares, effective Saturday, May 24, 2025. This decision comes after a meeting between the Transport Ministry and the union, where they agreed on the fare reduction.

According to Mr. Abubakari Musah, the Industrial Relations Officer of GPRTU in the Savannah Region, the National Secretariat of the union directed the regional branch to implement the reduction. “Immediately after receiving the directive from the National Secretariat, we communicated it to all branch executives of the GPRTU in the Savannah region,” he revealed in an interview with Spear FM news team.

The reduction in fares is in response to the recent drop in fuel prices at the pumps, from 16.7 per liter to 13.2 per liter. Mr. Musah explained, “The tradition is that we reduce fares when fuel prices drop. Based on the current fuel price, we decided on a 15% reduction. We also hope that spare parts dealers will reduce their prices, and we’ll be ready to further reduce fares since fuel is not the only component that determines fares.”

The new fares, effective May 24, 2025, are as follows:

  1. Accra: GHS 246.50 (previously GHS 290)
  2. Kumasi: GHS 119 (previously GHS 140)
  3. Tamale: GHS 42.50 (previously GHS 50)
  4. Buipe: GHS 42.50 (previously GHS 50)
  5. Sawla: GHS 34 (previously GHS 40)

Mr. Musah urged members to continue patronizing GPRTU, emphasizing that it is the mother union of all transport unions in the country, poised to serve customers and passengers right. He also acknowledged the union’s collaborative work with the government, negotiating for the betterment of all.

The Damongo branch of GPRTU provides services to various destinations, including Accra, Kumasi, Buipe, Fufulso, Tamale, Busunu, and Sawla. This fare reduction is expected to bring relief to commuters, particularly with the current stability of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar.

The GPRTU’s decision demonstrates its commitment to responding to economic changes and working in the best interests of its customers and members.

As Mr. Musah stated, “We are working hand-in-hand with the government, and we negotiate regularly for the betterment of all.” This development is expected to have a positive impact on the transport sector and the lives of commuters in the Savannah Region.

He urged members to keep patroionizing the GPRTU as it the mother union of all transport unions in the country and that it is poised to serving it’s customers and passengers right.
He also acknowledged that the union is working hand in hand with the government and they negotiate severally for the betterment of all.

Speaking to the media, he revealed that the Damongo branch GPRTU service extends to Accra, Kumasi, Buipe, Fufulso, Tamale, Busunu and Sawla.

Spear FM Market Survey: Relief for Consumers as Market Women Confirm Reduction in Foodstuffs, Cement Prices Remain Unchanged In Damongo

A recent market survey conducted by Spear FM in Damongo, the capital of the Savannah Region, has brought some respite to consumers. According to the survey, market women have confirmed a noticeable reduction in the prices of foodstuffs, grains, and vegetables. However, prices of building materials, particularly cement, have remained unchanged.

The survey, which aimed to assess the impact of the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian cedi against the US dollar on commodity prices, revealed that traders and businessmen have indeed reduced prices of goods such as grains, vegetables, and other foodstuffs. However, yam prices have remained stagnant since the beginning of the year.

Speaking to some building material dealers, despite reports on social media suggesting a reduction in cement prices to GHS 85 and GHS 83, prices have remained unchanged at GHS 106 and GHS 107 at the factories. Consequently, a bag of cement is still selling at GHS 115 and GHS 113 at various shops, with transportation costs remaining the same.

At the Damongo daily market, traders reported a slight drop in commodity prices. Mma Barikisu, a tomato trader, noted that six pieces of tomatoes, previously sold at GHS 10, are now selling at GHS 5. A box of tomatoes, formerly bought at GHS 3,000, is now available at GHS 2,000. She attributed the price reduction to the importation of tomatoes from southern parts of the country, such as Techiman in the Bono East Region, due to low rainfall in the north.

However, yam prices have remained unchanged, with four tubers selling at GHS 100 and water yam at three tubers for GHS 20. Traders lamented that yam prices have not fluctuated since the beginning of the year.

Other commodities have seen price reductions, including local rice, which is selling at GHS 30 and GHS 35 per bowl, depending on the variety. Millet is sold at GHS 30 per bowl, beans at GHS 60, 70, and 80, and a mini paint container of maize at GHS 30. Cassava is selling at GHS 20.

Traders revealed that a bag of local rice, previously bought at GHS 1,700, is now available at GHS 1,500. However, they expressed concerns about high transportation costs. A bag of fresh okro, bought at GHS 1,000 in Ejura, incurs transportation costs of between GHS 250 and GHS 300 and is now sold at 7 pieces for GHS 5.

The survey also found reductions in prices of vegetable cooking oil, with a 25-liter container now selling at GHS 650, down from GHS 750. A 5-liter container now costs GHS 200, reduced from GHS 250, while a 2-liter container is now GHS 60, down from GHS 80. A 1-liter container, previously GHS 50, is now GHS 40.

Additionally, prices of various rice brands and tomato paste have decreased, with a bag of onion now selling between GHS 1,200 and GHS 1,300, down from GHS 2,500.

Traders in Damongo expressed gratitude to the government for its interventions, which have contributed to the price reductions. They promised to further reduce prices when the economy stabilizes.

According to the traders, most of the price reductions took effect in May 2025. As the economy continues to evolve, consumers can expect more relief in the coming months.

Price List:

  1. Tomatoes: 6 pieces for GHS 5 (previously GHS 10)
  2. Box of tomatoes: GHS 2,000 (previously GHS 3,000)
  3. Yam: 4 tubers for GHS 100 (unchanged)
  4. Water yam: 3 tubers for GHS 20 (unchanged)
  5. Local rice: GHS 30-35 per bowl
  6. Millet: GHS 30 per bowl
  7. Beans: GHS 60-80 per bowl
  8. Maize: GHS 30 per mini paint container
  9. Cassava: GHS 20

Vegetable cooking oil:

  1. 25 liters: GHS 650 (previously GHS 750)
  2. 5 liters: GHS 200 (previously GHS 250)
  3. 2 liters: GHS 60 (previously GHS 80)
  4. 1 liter: GHS 40 (previously GHS 50)

Onion: GHS 1,200-1,300 per bag (previously GHS 2,500)
Cement: GHS 115 and GHS 113 per bag (unchanged)

Damongowura Sounds Alarm on Rising Opioid Abuse Among Youth, Calls for Stakeholder Engagement to Enforce Ban

The Damongo Traditional Area, particularly Damongo Township, the Savannah regional capital, is facing a growing concern over the increasing intake of opioids among the youth.

The Overlord of the Damongo Traditional Area, Damongowura Kelly Boresa (I), has raised the alarm, cautioning the youth against the dangers of opioid abuse.

Speaking to Spear FM News Team as part of its project to Say No To Opioids, Damongowura Kelly Boresa (I) expressed deep concern about the rising trend of opioid abuse in the area.

Some of the commonly abused drugs, include: Tramadol, Codeine, Morphine, Pentazocine, Apetamin (a combination of tramadol and paracetamol) and Refinol.

The chief emphasized that the abuse of these substances poses a significant threat to the future of the area, as the youth are the leaders of tomorrow. “If we don’t address this issue promptly, it will jeopardize the youth and put the future of our area in doom,” he warned.

Damongowura Kelly Boresa (I) also cautioned over-the-counter (OTC) medical dealers and pharmacists against selling these drugs to individuals without a physician’s prescription. “We cannot stress enough the importance of responsible dispensing of these substances,” he said. “It’s crucial that pharmacists and medical dealers adhere to the regulations and only dispense these drugs when prescribed by a qualified physician.”

To combat the growing menace of opioid abuse, the chief announced plans to hold a stakeholders’ engagement. The meeting will bring together key players, including the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), the Ghana Police Service, the military, and the local assembly. “We need a collective effort to address this issue,” he emphasized. “By working together, we can develop effective strategies to curb the abuse of opioids and protect our youth.”

The chief’s initiative is a welcome move, given the devastating effects of opioid abuse on individuals and communities. Opioid addiction can lead to a range of problems, including health issues, social problems, and economic difficulties.

In the Damongo Traditional Area, where the youth are the backbone of the community, addressing opioid abuse is crucial for the area’s development and progress.

The Spear FM News Team’s project to Say No To Opioids aims to raise awareness about the dangers of opioid abuse and promote responsible behavior. By highlighting the concerns of community leaders like Damongowura Kelly Boresa (I), the project seeks to spark a conversation about the need for collective action to address this critical issue. As the Damongo Traditional Area takes steps to tackle opioid abuse, it is hoped that other communities will follow suit. By working together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for our youth to thrive.

Damongo MP Donates Furniture to Schools in West Gonja Municipal Assembly

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In a heartwarming display of commitment to education and community development, the Member of Parliament for Damongo Constituency, Lawyer Samuel Abu Jinapor, has donated furniture to the Educational Directorate of the West Gonja Municipal Assembly. This generous gesture aims to alleviate the furniture deficit in schools, enhancing the learning environment for students.

The donation, presented on behalf of the MP by the NPP Constituency Chairman, Alhaji Adam Braimah, underscores the lawmaker’s tireless efforts to bring development to his constituents. Chairman Braimah emphasized that this act is part of the MP’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of the people, citing notable achievements in healthcare, education, farmers’ empowerment, women’s empowerment, and youth employment.

“The MP’s achievements in our area are unmatched,” Chairman Braimah said. “He has brought development to all aspects of life in our constituency, and we are grateful for his tireless efforts.

The furniture donation was financed from the MP’s share of the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund), highlighting his commitment to utilizing available resources for the betterment of education in the constituency.

The Municipal Director of Education, Mr. Issahaku Iddisah, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the MP for the donation. He revealed that upon assuming office, he was faced with a significant furniture challenge in schools, which prompted him to reach out to the MP for support.

“This donation is a huge relief,” Mr. Iddisah said. “It’s not the first time the MP has supported education in our area. He has previously donated furniture, motivated teachers through award schemes, and even built Kindergarten blocks for us.”

However, Mr. Iddisah appealed for further support, highlighting ongoing challenges such as electricity power debt, lack of computers, printers, and other office logistics. He urged stakeholders, chiefs, businessmen, and the general public to support education, emphasizing that children are the future leaders of the community.

The Headmistress of St. Theresa’s Primary School, Soale Latifa, also expressed gratitude for the donation, stating that it will significantly improve the learning environment. She noted that the furniture shortage had hindered group work and other activities, with some students forced to lie on the floor to write.

“We are thrilled to receive this donation,” Soale Latifa said. “We hope for more support to completely eradicate the furniture problem in our school.”

This donation is a testament to the MP’s commitment to education and community development. As the West Gonja Municipal Assembly continues to face challenges, the support from stakeholders like Lawyer Samuel Abu Jinapor is crucial in shaping the future of the area’s children.

The Directorate of Education’s plea for additional support highlights the need for collective effort in addressing the community’s challenges. As the community looks forward to more development, the MP’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.