We want investors who will build local capacity and create jobs – U/E Regional Minister

The Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Akamugri Donatus Atanga, has called on investors to prioritise local capacity building and job creation in their partnerships with the region.

He said investment partnerships must go beyond financial commitments to deliver practical benefits to communities, create employment opportunities and strengthen the ability of local people and institutions to participate in economic development.

The Minister’s position was contained in remarks delivered on his behalf by Ms Anatu Anne Seidu Bogobiri Esq. at the Ghana–Korea Business Forum 2026 at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on November 5.

He welcomed the Korean delegation and expressed the region’s readiness to work with Korean businesses and institutions interested in exploring investment opportunities.

According to him, the Upper East Region has considerable economic potential, particularly in agriculture, agro-processing, livestock production and mineral resources, but needs strategic partnerships to turn these opportunities into sustainable economic activities.

He noted that much of the region’s agricultural produce leaves in its raw form, limiting the opportunities available to farmers and local businesses to benefit from value addition and industrial processing.

The Minister identified the revival of existing agro-industrial facilities as one area where investment could make a meaningful difference. These include the Pwalugu Tomato Factory, Zuarungu Meat Factory, Pusu-Namongo cotton ginnery and rice mills in Bolgatanga.

He said the region was interested in partnerships that would help restore productive capacity, improve processing and create stronger links between farmers, businesses and markets.

The region also has opportunities in livestock and guinea fowl production, irrigation-based agriculture and responsible management of its mineral resources, including gold deposits around Talensi.

The Minister said the region was prepared to engage investors through the Regional Coordinating Council, which would serve as a point of contact to support discussions and coordination.

He also outlined the proposed PEARL Fund, which is intended to support the implementation of the region’s development priorities, with an independent Board of Trustees, a citizens’ oversight committee and published accounts.

He emphasised that the region wanted partnerships that would leave a lasting impact rather than arrangements that offered limited benefits to local communities.

The Minister further called for cooperation that respects the environment while creating opportunities for young people, businesses and local institutions.

He expressed the hope that discussions at the forum would lead to practical engagements between Korean investors and the Upper East Region, including further visits and follow-up meetings to identify areas for cooperation.

He said the ultimate objective was to ensure that investment translated into jobs, stronger local businesses and improved livelihoods for the people of the region.