Bolgatanga: Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, has reiterated the need for an airport in the region to improve air transport connectivity, attract investment, and unlock economic and tourism potential. He emphasized the strategic importance of such an infrastructure project during the commissioning of the Upper East Regional Passport Application Centre in Bolgatanga.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister highlighted the airport as essential for regional transformation, trade facilitation, and balanced national development. He pointed out the region's proximity to Burkina Faso and Togo, its rich mineral resources, and a growing population as factors that make the airport project both economically viable and urgent.
Mr Akamugri revealed that the proposed airport site located at Sumbrungu near Bolgatanga spans 4,218.43 acres, with a two-kilometre runway already prepared, meeting the satisfaction of the Ghana Airports Company Limited. He urged the Ministry of Transport to prioritize the project's commencement, aligning with President John Dramani Mahama's vision of a connected Ghana.
The Minister expressed gratitude to the chiefs and people of Sumbrungu for their willingness to provide ancestral land free of charge for the airport, seeing it as a symbol of generosity and foresight. He also acknowledged the establishment of the Regional Passport Application Centre as a step toward decentralization and improved public service delivery, reducing the need for residents to travel long distances for passport services.
Mr Gabriel Agambila, Founder and Leader of the Alagumgube Association, praised the government's positive response to their advocacy efforts. He noted that the new Centre would enhance residents' access to passports. Mr Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, inaugurated the Centre, promising improved and integrity-driven services for residents.
