Govt has no intention to demolish Tendamba Primary School — Local Govt Minister
The Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has firmly debunked assertions that the government intends to pull down the Tendamba Primary School at Wa in the Upper West Region to make way for the construction of a 24-Hour Model Market.
He described the claims as false, misleading and inappropriate, explaining that the government had no plans to site the market project on any existing basic school facility.
Addressing the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs during a familiarisation visit, the minister emphasised that education remained a top priority of the government and that no development project would be undertaken at the expense of pupils’ learning environments.
The familiarisation visit formed part of the government's plan to deepen engagement with traditional leaders and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).
He affirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the chieftaincy institution, local governance and maintaining collaborations with religious bodies.
He also reiterated the government’s unwavering respect for chieftaincy as enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
24-Hour Model Market
Mr Ibrahim clarified that the 24-Hour Model Market initiative was designed to promote economic activity, decongest existing markets, and create jobs, without disrupting essential social infrastructure such as schools.
The minister said the success of the 24-Hour Model Market programme depended on collaboration between MMDCEs and traditional leaders, particularly in identifying suitable and appropriate lands for the project.
He, therefore, urged the public to disregard the misinformation and assured stakeholders that the government remained committed to inclusive development that safeguards both education and local livelihoods.
Appreciation, concern
The President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, Kuoro Abu Diaka Sukabe Nania V, expressed the House's appreciation to the government on the construction of the 24-Hour Model Markets and also for the recent increase in the monthly allowances for traditional authorities.
He drew attention to challenges faced by some chiefs, particularly the lack of functional traditional councils, to effectively resolve conflicts and administrative issues.
