Yagbonwura Petitions Gov’t for Savannah Regional Airport: Unlocking Economic Potential

Introduction

The Savannah Region, known as Ghana’s largest administrative region, stands on the precipice of a major infrastructural transformation. In a significant political and economic move, the Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-kunu Jewu Soale I, has formally petitioned the central government for the construction of a regional airport in Damongo. This request is not merely about aviation infrastructure; it is a strategic appeal to bridge the development gap, boost tourism, and enhance regional security. The proposal was formally presented during a high-profile visit by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighting a renewed focus on the decentralization of essential services.

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the petition, the context of the ministerial visit, and the broader implications for the Savannah Region. We will explore the economic rationale behind the proposed Savannah regional airport, the readiness of the traditional authority to facilitate land acquisition, and the immediate benefits of the newly commissioned Savannah Regional Passport Application Centre.

Key Points

Background

The Savannah Region, carved out of the Northern Region in 2019, is Ghana’s largest region by land area but remains one of the least developed in terms of critical infrastructure. The regional capital, Damongo, has long struggled with accessibility. Historically, access to international travel documents required residents to undertake long journeys to Tamale or Kumasi, a situation that has now been alleviated.

The Royal Visit

The catalyst for the current discourse was the working visit of Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to the Jakpa Palace in Damongo. The primary objective of this visit was the commissioning of the Savannah Regional Passport Application Centre (PAC). This event represents a fulfillment of the government’s decentralization agenda, bringing essential public services closer to the people.

However, the visit evolved into a broader dialogue on regional development. The Yagbonwura used the platform to address the region’s infrastructural deficits, specifically targeting the lack of an aviation hub. This interaction underscores the vital role traditional authorities play in advocating for development and facilitating government projects.

Analysis: Why a Savannah Regional Airport?

The call for an airport in Damongo is grounded in solid economic logic. The Savannah Region is home to Ghana’s premier wildlife conservation area, the Mole National Park, and the historic Larabanga Mosque, the oldest mosque in Ghana. Despite these world-class attractions, the region sees a fraction of the international tourist traffic enjoyed by other regions.

Tourism and Aviation Synergy

Currently, tourists flying into Ghana for safari often have to land in Accra or Tamale and endure grueling overland travel to reach Mole. An airport in Damongo would significantly reduce travel time, making the region a more attractive destination for high-value international tourists. This “aerial gateway” is essential for the region to compete in the global tourism market.

Economic Liberation

Beyond tourism, an airport would stimulate trade and commerce. The Savannah Region is an agricultural hub. Quick access to markets via air transport for perishable goods could revolutionize the local economy. Furthermore, the presence of an airport often attracts ancillary businesses, including hotels, logistics companies, and service providers, leading to job creation for the local youth.

Practical Advice

For the proposed airport project to move from petition to reality, several steps are necessary. Below is a breakdown of the process and what stakeholders can expect.

For Local Residents and Business Owners

• Engage in Civic Advocacy: Residents should support the traditional council’s efforts by voicing their support for the project to local assembly members.
• Prepare for Economic Opportunities: Business owners in hospitality and transport should prepare for a potential influx of visitors by upgrading their facilities.

For the Government (Ministry of Aviation & Local Government)

• Feasibility Studies: Conduct immediate technical feasibility studies on the identified land to determine suitability for an airstrip and future expansion to a full airport.
• Land Title Verification: Work with the Gonja Traditional Council to ensure the identified land is free from litigation and properly demarcated.
• Integrate with Tourism Development: The airport project should be linked with road infrastructure leading to Mole National Park to ensure a seamless travel experience.

Immediate Relief: The Passport Application Centre

While the airport is a long-term goal, the newly commissioned Passport Application Centre (PAC) offers immediate relief. Residents are advised to utilize this facility to save the cost and time of traveling to Tamale or Kumasi. The centre specifically targets students, business people, and Hajj pilgrims.

FAQ

Conclusion

The petition by Yagbonwura Bii-kunu Jewu Soale I for a Savannah regional airport represents a visionary approach to regional development. By targeting aviation infrastructure, the traditional leadership is looking beyond immediate needs toward sustainable economic growth through tourism and trade. The simultaneous commissioning of the Passport Application Centre demonstrates that the government is receptive to decentralization efforts. The coming months will be crucial as the petition moves from the Jakpa Palace to the corridors of the Presidency, potentially setting the stage for a new era of connectivity for Northern Ghana.