Sod cut for construction of new Gbewaa Palace in Yendi

A sod has been cut for the construction of a new Gbewaa Palace in Yendi, the traditional seat of Dagbon.

The project forms part of a 10-year strategic development plan for Dagbon.

The new palace would comprise various structures and facilities, including the office of the Dagbon Traditional Council.

Development plan

In a speech read on his behalf, the Ya-Na said the strategic development plan for Dagbon sought to propel growth in all sectors including agriculture, education, health, commerce and sanitation.

It also involves strategies to prevent conflicts and nibbling any possible challenges that would stand in the way of progress in the bud.

The institution of chieftaincy in the Dagbon Kingdom would also be strengthened to give meaning to the role of traditional rulers in propelling development in their respective communities and towns.

Commitment

The Ya-Na acknowledged the commitment of the chiefs and people of Dagbon towards the operationalisation of the growth initiatives.

He, however, said resources needed to champion development in Dagbon would require both local and international support.

The Ya-Na, therefore, entreated the government, corporate organisations, international development agencies, the business community and individuals to contribute their widow’s mite towards the realisation of the objectives to accelerate the development of not only Dagbon but the nation at large.

Advice

The Ya-Na further advised citizens of Dagbon to prioritise the education of their children, including enrolling them in vocational schools to learn skills of their choice to better their lot.

He also called for peace and unity, saying “our common enemy is poverty which we must join hands to fight to ensure prosperity for both current and future generations”.

The Ya-Na added that farming was the mainstay of the people and, therefore, stressed the need for the government and other stakeholders to intervene by constructing irrigation facilities and also supporting the people with appropriate seeds and modern equipment to grow the sector.

And with the setting in of the harmattan, he cautioned the people against bush burning, which he said was devastating to the environment.

“Bush burning, including other natural disasters such as the recent drought in the north, affects the economic and food security of most people, especially the rural poor whose livelihood depends on agriculture,” the Ya-Na said.

He, therefore, charged all chiefs to collaborate with their respective municipal and district assemblies to map out strategies to stem the tide.

Pledge

The Northern Regional Minister, Alhaji Shani Alhassan Shaibu, pledged the government’s support for the construction of the palace and the accelerated development in the area.

He commended the Ya-Na for setting the example by donating GH¢ 200,000 towards the reconstruction of the palace.

For his part, the Kuga Na, Abdulai Adam II, who chaired the ceremony, said the Gbewaa Palace was more than just a physical structure.

“It is a symbol of our rich heritage, our resilience and unwavering commitment to our tradition.

“The reconstruction is a testament to the vision and leadership of the forebears who laid the foundation for the greatness we are enjoying today,” he added.