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BUDAFEST 2025: We Must Embrace Education As The Bridge To Our Tomorrow – BUIPEWURA

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The 17th Annual Buipe Damba Festival (BUDAFEST 2025) was celebrated with vibrant displays of tradition, unity, and calls for peace and sustainable development.

Neripewura Panfia Kipson, Secretary to Buipewura Jinapor II, Paramount Chief of Buipe Traditional Area and Vice President of the National House of Chiefs, reading the Paramount Chief’s address at the festival held at the Jinapor II stadium in Buipe, highlighted the significance of peace, education, and collective action against drug abuse.

“Peace is our shield and the protagonist for our development,” the address emphasized. “Let no wind scatter Savannah region. Without peace, we have nothing to boast of and nothing in our sleeves.” Buipewura Jinapor II urged the community to reject conflict and emulate the wisdom of their forebears who divided the kingdom in shared purpose, not strife.

The Paramount Chief stressed the importance of education, describing it as a fertile ground for development and economic enhancement. “For Savannah to be described as the beacon of development, then we must embrace education in its diversity,” he said.

However, Buipewura Jinapor II noted a looming threat: drug abuse. “The Almighty Tramadol, Red 225, solution, and general drug abuse is a huge threat to the future of the youth in this country,” he warned, calling on lawmakers and security services to critically assess the situation and enforce laws to control it.

In conclusion, Buipewura Jinapor II urged the community to uphold peace, nurture culture, pursue education, and banish drug abuse. “As the Damba drums fade and the stars claim the savannah sky, let us carry this charge into our hearts,” he said, quoting ancient griots: “The ancestors do not reward the idle hand that poisons itself, but the steady one that sows seeds of wisdom and reaps harvests of honor.” May Allah guide, protect, and grant victory to the people of Gonjaland and Buipe.

Chairman for the occasion, Nyab Tamale Dakpema, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, unity, and sustainable development. “We are one people with a shared destiny,” he stated, highlighting the significance of festivals like BudaFest in promoting unity and celebrating heritage. The festival’s theme, “Promoting Peaceful Co-existence: A Path to Sustainable Development,” resonated deeply with attendees.

Dakpema expressed concern over recurring land disputes and drug abuse. “As traditional leaders, we bear a sacred duty to ensure that land becomes a blessing and not a curse,” he said, urging dialogue, mediation, and customary arbitration to resolve disputes peacefully. Regarding drug abuse, he warned, “If we lose our youth to drugs, we lose our future,” and advocated for collective efforts to educate and support the youth.

Dakpema renewed the commitment to peace, unity, and development, saying, “May the spirit of Damba inspire us to walk together as one people, to confront our challenges with courage, to embrace peace, the surest path to sustainable development.” This call to action underscores the importance of unity and collective responsibility in addressing social challenges and promoting sustainable development.

The Buipe Damba Festival 2025 served as a platform for leaders to call for peace, education, and action against drug abuse, emphasizing the importance of promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable development in the region.

Chinese Community in Ghana Extends Lifeline to Gbenyiri Conflict Victims

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In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and humanitarian spirit, the Chinese Community in Ghana has stepped forward to provide critical support to victims of the recent conflict in Gbenyiri, located in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, community representatives presented substantial relief items worth over one million Ghana cedis to the Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Salisu Bi-Awurebi, for onward distribution to the thousands of displaced residents.

Mr. Stephen Shun, Secretary to the Chinese Community in Ghana, spoke with evident emotion about the community’s motivation to act. “Today we gather here with a heavy heart to express our deepest condolences to the affected families and those we lost in this tragic conflict,” he stated during the presentation ceremony.

The response reflects the deep bonds that have formed between the Chinese community and their Ghanaian neighbors. “Ghana is our second home and its people have accepted and welcomed us,” Shun explained. “When we see our people suffering, our hearts are pained, and it is this concern that drives the Chinese Community in Ghana to act swiftly.”

The scale and speed of the community’s response has been remarkable. Working in coordination with the Chinese Embassy and various stakeholders, community leaders initiated a fundraising drive that garnered generous contributions from across the Chinese community in Ghana.

Mr. Weinkien Yang, Counsel to the Chinese Community, detailed the mobilization effort: “When the Chinese Community heard that over fifty thousand people, women and children were displaced, it took us approximately one week to be able to raise one million Ghana cedis from various stakeholders and associations within the Chinese Community.”

The donation encompasses essential items carefully selected to address immediate humanitarian needs:

  • 1,200bags of rice
  • 500 boxes of tomato paste
  • 500 blankets
  • Six 10,000-liter polytanks
  • 500 buckets
  • 230 boxes of mosquito coils
  • 100 bags of washing powder
  • 500 boxes of soap
  • 50 boxes of sanitary pads
  • 500 boxes of Kivo Gari mix

These items address critical needs including nutrition, shelter, water storage, hygiene, and health protection for the displaced population.

Hon. Salisu Bi-Awurebi, the Savannah Regional Minister, received the donations with deep appreciation, emphasizing the significance of the gesture beyond its material value. “This humble gesture speaks volumes,” he noted. “A gift is not measured by the volume of it but the intent behind the gift.”

The minister highlighted the unique position of the Chinese community in responding to this crisis. “Savannah, the home of His Excellency the President of Ghana, was affected by this unfortunate incident. It is only the Chinese Community that has come to our aid,” he observed. “This therefore tells us that in trying and difficult moments, our true friends are Chinese”.

The humanitarian effort has also prompted reflection on broader perceptions and relationships. Former Ambassador to China, Mr. Anane Demuyaakor, used the occasion to address misconceptions and encourage balanced media coverage of the Chinese community in Ghana.

“Certain incidents that have happened in the country make us tend to have very negative perceptions about China and Chinese,” he acknowledged, referencing issues like illegal mining. “I’m throwing a challenge, especially to the media, that when such stories come, let’s try to publicize good news like this and minimize the negative news about Chinese.”

District-level officials have also expressed gratitude while working to restore normalcy. Hon. Sikina Saaka, the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District Chief Executive whose constituents were directly affected, assured displaced residents that security measures are in place for their safe return.

Mr. Abdullai Mahmud, DCE for the Bole District, acknowledged that the Chinese community represents the third group to provide assistance, following the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and another Chinese organization that responded earlier.

This humanitarian response exemplifies how immigrant communities can become integral parts of their adopted societies, demonstrating care that transcends cultural and national boundaries. The Chinese community’s swift action underscores the reality that when crisis strikes, compassion knows no borders.

As the Savannah Region works toward healing and recovery from the Gbenyiri conflict, this gesture of solidarity stands as a testament to the power of community support and the bonds that unite people in times of need. The substantial contribution will provide immediate relief while serving as a foundation for rebuilding trust and stability in the affected areas.

The response of the Chinese Community in Ghana serves as a powerful reminder that true community extends beyond ethnic or national lines, encompassing all who call a place home and are willing to stand together in times of crisis.

Sir Martin’s Memorial School Supports Abandoned Baby’s Care with GHC 1,000.00

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Sir Martin’s Memorial School has made a generous donation of GH¢1,000.00 to Spear FM to support the abandoned baby currently receiving care in Damongo. This donation is a testament to the school’s commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

During the donation, the school’s representative expressed their concern for the baby’s well-being and emphasized the importance of community support. “We believe that every child deserves care and support, and we’re proud to play a part in helping this little one. We urge others to join us in making a difference,” they said.

The donation was received by Spear FM, which has been at the forefront of mobilizing support for the baby. The radio station expresses gratitude to The Sir Martin’s Memorial School for their kindness and encourages others to join in supporting the baby.

This donation will contribute to the baby’s medical bills and other essential needs. Spear FM reiterates its commitment to transparency and accountability in managing donations for the baby’s care.

Spear FM remains grateful to its donors and encourages further contributions to support the baby. Financial donations can be made through the MoMo number 0538821801, with the MoMo name Spear FM 91.9MHz. Additionally, food and medical supplies can be dropped off at the front desk of Spear FM, located adjacent to the Damongo Community Center.

Emylink Enterprise Donates GH¢500 to Support Abandoned Baby in Damongo

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In a heartwarming display of compassion, Emylink Enterprise, dealers in motorbikes in Damongo, the Savannah regional capital, has made a generous donation of GH¢500 to support the abandoned baby currently receiving care in Damongo. The baby boy was rescued by residents from a refuse dump in Hangaline, a suburb of Damongo.

The donation was made by Mr. Haruna Mohammed Mutarla and Seidu Abdul-Latif on behalf of the CEO of Emylink Enterprise, Mr. Emeka. During the presentation, Mr. Mutarla emphasized the importance of supporting vulnerable members of society. “As a business, we believe it’s our responsibility to give back to the community. This donation is our way of showing compassion and care for the abandoned baby,” he said.

Mr. Ezekiel Abdul Aziz received the donation on behalf of Spear FM’s manager, Mr. Adam Akilu Gideon. Expressing gratitude to Emylink Enterprise, Mr. Aziz stated, “We’re grateful to Emylink Enterprise for their generosity. This donation will go a long way in supporting the baby’s medical bills and other essential needs. We’re encouraged by the community’s response and urge others to join in supporting the baby.”

This donation is part of the ongoing efforts by Spear FM to mobilize support for the abandoned baby. The radio station has been at the forefront of the campaign, receiving donations from kind-hearted individuals and institutions. Spear FM reiterates its commitment to transparency and accountability in managing donations for the baby’s care.

Hon. David Tiki Dange Donates GH¢6,000 to Support Abandoned Baby in Damongo

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In a heartwarming display of compassion, Hon. David Tiki Dange, Deputy director of Intelligence analyst and Investigations, has made a generous donation of GH¢6,000.00 to support the abandoned baby currently receiving care in Damongo. The baby, affectionately referred to as the “NICU Baby,” was rescued from a refuse dump in Hangaline, a suburb of Damongo.

The donation was presented on Hon. Tiki Dange’s behalf by Mr. Amadu Mudasiru, following Spear FM’s public appeal for support for the baby. During the presentation, Mr. Mudasiru emphasized that the gesture is aimed at helping cater for the baby’s medical bills and other essential needs. He also called on the general public to support the cause, stressing that society must not turn its back on vulnerable children.

“We don’t know the future of such a child. Who knows what this baby could become one day? Extending support is not just charity, it’s hope,” Mr. Mudasiru stated. He appealed for support, citing the reason that this could be anyone’s child, emphasizing the importance of community support for those in need.

Cajetan Don-ninge, receiving the donation on behalf of the Station’s manager, Adam Akilu Gideon, expressed gratitude to Hon. Tiki Dange for the generous donation, highlighting its timeliness. Spear FM continues to receive support from kind-hearted individuals and institutions for the baby and has pledged transparency and commitment in ensuring all donations are used in the baby’s best interest.

The donation has brought hope and relief to the abandoned baby’s caregivers, and Spear FM’s efforts have been instrumental in mobilizing support for the child. Let’s continue to come together to make a difference in the life of this innocent child.

New Life Preparatory School-Damongo Donates to Abandoned Baby’s Care

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New Life Preparatory School-Damongo has made a significant cash donation of GHC 593 to Spear FM, the initiators of a fundraising campaign to support the care of an abandoned baby boy who was dumped in a refuse container at Hangaline, a suburb of Damongo, last Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

During the presentation, Pastor David Gbolo Sakara, proprietor of New Life Preparatory School-Damongo, expressed the school’s condemnation of the inhumane act by the unknown parent.

He stated that the donation, made voluntarily by pupils from Basic 4 to Junior High School 3, was a gesture of support for the baby’s care. “We were deeply disturbed by the news of the abandoned baby, and as a school, we felt compelled to act. Our pupils came together to make this donation, and we’re proud of their compassion and empathy,” he said.

Pastor Sakara added, “Just as the name of our school suggests, ‘New Life,’ we hope that with our donation, the baby will receive a new life with a future of hope. We believe that every child deserves a chance to thrive, and we’re committed to supporting this little one in any way we can.”

The proprietor appealed to other stakeholders and kind-hearted individuals to make donations to support the baby’s care. “We urge everyone in the community to come together to support this baby. Let’s show that we care and that we’re committed to making a difference in the lives of those in need,” he said.

Miss Fati Baba Roland, Secretary of Spear FM, received the donation on behalf of the Station’s manager, Adam Akilu Gideon. “We’re grateful to New Life Preparatory School-Damongo for their generous donation. Their support will go a long way in helping us care for the baby. We’re also proud of the pupils for their compassion and empathy,” she said.

Spear FM remains grateful to its donors and encourages further contributions to support the baby. Financial donations can be made through the MoMo number 0538821801, with the MoMo name Spear FM 91.9MHz. Additionally, food and medical supplies can be dropped off at the front desk of Spear FM, located adjacent to the Damongo Community Center.

The community’s response to this appeal has been heartwarming, and Spear FM’s efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the abandoned baby. Let’s continue to come together to make a difference in the life of this innocent child.

Animal Theft on the Rise, Damongowura Kelly Boresa (I) Places Ban on Sale of Kebab/Chinchinga in Damongo.

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There’s a  Growing concerns  mounting in Damongo, the Savannah Regional capital, following a surge in cases of animal theft that has left many livestock owners frustrated and financially distressed.

Over the past weeks, several residents have reported the disappearance of goats, sheep, and cattle under mysterious circumstances, sparking fears of a well-organized theft syndicate operating in the municipality. Farmers and herdsmen, who rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods, say the situation is worsening and requires urgent intervention from security agencies.

According to affected residents, the thieves often strike at night, taking advantage of poor community surveillance and inadequate security patrols in the area. Some victims have lamented that despite reporting the incidents, little progress has been made in apprehending the culprits.

“We are suffering here. Almost every week someone loses their animals. It is our only source of survival, and yet the thieves keep getting away with it,” a worried livestock owner told spear FM

Community leaders have called on the West Gonja Municipal Assembly and the Savannah Regional Police Command to intensify efforts in curbing the menace. They are also appealing for the reactivation of community watchdog committees to assist in monitoring and protecting livestock.

In a close door meeting with the youth of Damongo lead by Mr Samuel Mahama Dinkeri at the Damongowura’s palace, the Damongowura, Seidu Kelly Boresa I, said emphatically to the mammoth crowd that starting from Thursday 18th of September 2025 by the power vested in him as tha Damongowura, he has placed a  ban on the sale of kebab popularly known as chinchinga in Damongo until further notice.

He also urge all meat sellers to slaughter their animals at the abattoir constructed by the west Gonja municipal Assembly

Meanwhile, police sources in Damongo say investigations are ongoing, and measures are being put in place to track down the perpetrators.

For now, residents remain anxious, hoping swift action will be taken to restore peace of mind and safeguard their means of livelihood.

Sheep Theft in Yagbonkura: Two Arrested, One on the Run, Butcher Flee

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A case of livestock theft has stirred anger among residents of Yagbonkura, a suburb of Damongo, as two brothers, Gafaru and Mohammed alongside an accomplice, Nnabaali (currently on the run), allegedly stole and slaughtered a sheep belonging to a local resident.

The owner, Abdul Majeed, popularly known as CR7, revealed that he has lost about six sheep recently. He confirmed that the suspects were caught with a freshly slaughtered sheep.

The arrested individuals reportedly confessed to selling their stolen animals to a well-known butcher, Achiiba, based in the Damongo Canteen area. However, it is alleged that upon receiving information that he was being mentioned in the investigation, Achiiba also fled and has since not been located.

An angry mob, mainly youth from the area, nearly lynched the suspects, blaming them for the growing insecurity of their livestock. It took the timely intervention of the Ghana Police Service to prevent mob justice and ensure the suspects were taken into custody.

Residents are calling for swift investigations and justice to serve as a deterrent, while the police continue their search for Nnabaali and Achiiba.

Spear FM Donates to Abandoned Baby’s Care

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Spear FM 91.9MHz has made a significant donation of GHC 5,000.00 to St. Anne’s Catholic Hospital in Damongo to support the care of an abandoned baby boy. The donation was presented on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, to the hospital’s accounts department by Cajetan Don-ninge and Fati Titi Baba Roland, representing the station’s General Manager, Mr. Adam Akilu Gideon, and donors.

This donation follows Spear FM’s initiative to raise funds for the baby’s medical care and needs after breaking the news of the baby’s abandonment. The first batch of donations was made due to the urgent need to provide food for the baby.

Andrew Rashid Damba, the hospital’s accountant, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Spear FM and all donors who have contributed so far. “We are deeply grateful for Spear FM’s generosity and commitment to the care of this abandoned baby,” Andrew Rashid Damba said. “Their efforts have not only brought attention to the baby’s plight but have also mobilized support from the community. We appeal for continued support to ensure the baby receives the necessary care and attention.”

The donation has brought significant relief to the hospital, which has been caring for the baby since the baby was admitted. The hospital’s accountant noted that the funds will go a long way in supporting the baby’s medical care and other needs.

Spear FM remains grateful to its donors and encourages further contributions to support the baby. Financial donations can be made through the MoMo number 0538821801, with the MoMo name Spear FM 91.9MHz. Additionally, food and medical supplies can be dropped off at the front desk of Spear FM, located adjacent to the Damongo Community Center.

The community’s response to this appeal has been heartwarming, and Spear FM’s efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing support for the abandoned baby. Let’s continue to come together to make a difference in the life of this innocent child.

Spear FM is committed to supporting the abandoned baby and is grateful to all donors who have contributed so far. We appeal for continued support to ensure the baby receives the necessary care and attention.

Tragic Incident as Newborn Baby Dumped at Refuse Site in Hangaline, Damongo

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A heartbreaking incident has rocked the Hangaline community, a suburb of Damongo, where a newly born baby boy was discovered abandoned at a refuse dump in the early hours of Tuesday.

According to an eyewitness who was first at the scene, the baby was found wrapped in a cloth and left helpless among household waste. “I went to dump refuse this morning when I heard the cry of a baby coming from the dump. I rushed to inform the Environmental Health Officers who were also in their line of duty at the area of the cry of a baby in the refused dump” the witness recounted.

Madam Saaka Laadi, a Principal Environmental Health Assistant with her team, conveyed the baby to the St Anne’s Hospital in Damongo and she spoke to our reporter and described how they were informed of this sad situation. She described the situation as both disturbing and unfortunate. “We condemn this act in the strongest terms. There are safer and more humane ways to handle unwanted pregnancies. This action is criminal and poses a grave health risk to the child and the public,” she said.

The baby was rescued and rushed to St. Anne’s Hospital in Damongo. A midwife at the facility, Sister Diana Bayor who receive the baby, confirmed that the newborn was immediately processed and admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for observation and care. “Thankfully, the baby is stable and receiving the needed support,” sister Diana Bayor added.

Authorities have launched investigations into the incident, and the public is urged to provide any relevant information to help locate the person(s) responsible.

Meanwhile, the health and social welfare departments are expected to take over the case to ensure the baby’s safety and future well-being.