2024 in retrospect: A year of triumphs, tragedies in Northern Region
The year 2024 will be remembered as a period marked by significant developments, triumphs and tragedies in the Northern Region.
Of the many things that the year was to the people, it brought a glimpse of hope and renewed energy for the people to push for the forward march of the region.
The year began on a celebratory note in the Tamale metropolis when Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, a culinary enthusiast, attempted a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon from January 1 to January 10, 2024.
For over 100 hours, Failatu prepared variety of dishes showcasing the richness of Ghanaian cuisine, drawing national and international attention.
Her achievement symbolised not only personal determination but also the untapped potential within Ghana’s food industry. Thousands gathered to witness the historic event, while millions followed her journey online, turning her into a national icon.
Out of the 2,864 plates served, 450 were served to orphanages, the homeless and less privileged in the metropolis while the remaining were enjoyed by the patrons.
Historic visits
In July, 2024, th Overlord of the Gonja Kingdom, Yagbonwura Bii-kunuto Jewu Soale I, embarked on a historic visit to the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, at the Gbewa Palace in Yendi in the Northern Region.
The meeting between the two traditional leaders underscored a burgeoning era of unity, cooperation and cultural renaissance in northern Ghana.
It also symbolises a deep commitment to fostering peace, as well as strengthening ties and mutual understanding among people of the two ancient kingdoms.
The event was marked by cultural displays and mutual pledges of cooperation, fostering a sense of pride and solidarity among their people.
Subsequently, the Yagbonwura extended similar visit to the Overlord of Mamprugu Kingdom, Nayiri Nabohagu Abulai Mahami Sheriga.
At the historic event, both traditional rulers expressed their commitment to peacefully resolve the protracted Lukula conflict which had been raging on between the traditional areas.
The agreement marked a turning point in the history of inter-ethnic disputes in northern Ghana. Also, both leaders called on their people to prioritise dialogue over violence, setting an example of statesmanship for future generations.
Tourism
In a historic moment for heritage conservation, the Salaga Slave Market Heritage Site was inaugurated to commemorate Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
The site, once a hub for the sale of enslaved Africans, has been transformed into a solemn place of reflection and education.
The inauguration was attended by government officials, historian, and descendants of enslaved people, with many emphasising the need to learn from history to promote equality and justice.
Inaugurating the facility, the then Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, described the market as a key centre where slaves were exchanged for kola nuts, cowries and gold, underscoring the grim reality of human commodification during the dark period of history.
He said the facility would boost the local economy and also foster cross-cultural understanding between different communities, both locally and internationally.
Airport renaming
A decision by the government to rename the Tamale International Airport after the late Paramount Chief of the Tolon Traditional Area, Naa Yakubu Tali, generated heated discussions, with the Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, opposing the move.
The Ya-Na was of the view that renaming the airport after the late Tolon Naa could be contentious and create needless controversies in Dagbon.
In a petition to the then President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Ya-Na said: "This is an unacceptable idea to me and majority of citizens of Dagbon".
While some supported the renaming as a tribute to Naa Tali’s contributions, others argued for maintaining the airport’s current name to reflect broader regional representation.
Green Ghana launch
As part of efforts to restore the degraded vegetation and fight climate change, the government launched the 2024 Green Ghana Day with a target of planting 10 million trees in Tamale.
The then Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, who launched the project, called on the citizenry to commit to come together to plant and grow at least 10 million trees for a greener tomorrow for the survival of generations unborn.
“Green Ghana Day is an extraordinary opportunity for us all to contribute to make our country greener and habitable, and forever shall it be. Saving lives and our planet is a collective responsibility,” he stressed.
Missing children
Tragedy struck Tamale, when the lifeless bodies of two missing children were discovered in an abandoned vehicle at Kakpagyili in July 2024.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community.
They reportedly informed their parents they were going to visit a neighbour and never returned. Relatives and community members searched the neighbourhood for days and did not find them.
Police investigations however led investigators to an abandoned vehicle where they discovered the bodies of the two.
The neighbour, behind whose house the said abandoned vehicle had been parked was immediately picked by the police.
Following the development, some youth allegedly attacked the suspect’s house, destroyed properties and burnt the entire house down.
Theft cases
The fight against illegal activities took centre stage in Walewale when police intercepted 37 bags of cocoa beans suspected of being smuggled out of Ghana.
The bags of cocoa beans were believed to have been transported from southern Ghana to the north on a transit outside of Ghana as part of a syndicate that smuggles cocoa beans to neighbouring countries.
Also, in a bid to preserve Ghana’s rich biodiversity, three poachers were arrested at Mole National Park for illegal hunting activities.
They were identified as Saaka Karim, 26; Abdulai Adam, 25 and Ahmed Fatawu, 23. They were subsequently put before court and jailed.
Writer’s email:mohammed.fugu@graphic.com.gh