Residents and development advocates in Ghana’s Upper East Region are demanding answers over the region’s reported omission from the government’s proposed $500 million feeder roads programme, questioning whether the region is receiving a fair share of national infrastructure investments.
The concerns intensified after development advocacy group Alagumgube intercepted a document detailing the proposed allocation of projects about a month ago and raised alarm over the absence of the Upper East Region. Despite the group’s concerns and public advocacy, government proceeded to forward the document to Parliament on July 16, 2026, for consideration and approval.
Alagumgube’s founder, Gabriel Agambila, had earlier criticized the reported exclusion, describing it as worrying and calling on stakeholders, including Members of Parliament from the region, to unite and push for the inclusion of Upper East in the programme.
The concerns have since attracted further reactions, with Dr. Francis Maltiby, UK Chairman of Alagumgube, also questioning why the region was left out of a major infrastructure intervention aimed at improving rural roads and supporting economic activities.
For many residents, the issue goes beyond road construction. They argue that the omission could affect economic growth in a region where agriculture remains the backbone of livelihoods and where poor road networks continue to make it difficult for farmers to transport produce to markets.
“What have we done to deserve being left out?” has become a growing question among residents, many of whom believe the Upper East Region has over the years faced infrastructure deficits despite its significant contribution to national food production.
The feeder roads programme is expected to improve rural connectivity, reduce transportation challenges, and strengthen agricultural value chains across the country. The initiative forms part of government’s broader efforts to rehabilitate critical road networks and improve access to farming communities.
The Upper East Region has for years struggled with deteriorating feeder roads, with several communities becoming difficult to access during the rainy season. Residents say improved roads would help reduce post-harvest losses, improve access to healthcare and education, and boost local businesses.
Some residents have also expressed disappointment that despite repeated calls for development interventions, many road projects in the region remain delayed or incomplete.
Meanwhile, government representatives have sought to address the concerns. Upper East NDC Communication Officer, Jonathan Salifu Abdallah, has indicated that the region has not been permanently excluded, explaining that consultations and submissions from Members of Parliament and district assemblies are still ongoing and that project selections are not considered final.
He expressed confidence that the Upper East Region would eventually benefit from the programme.
However, residents and advocacy groups continue to demand transparency and fairness in the distribution of national projects, insisting that every region deserves equitable consideration in development initiatives.
