In a recent editorial titled “Moment of Truth,” Sammy Gyamfi, the National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), launched a scathing critique of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, accusing him of deceiving the people of Northern Ghana with the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam and Irrigation Project.
Gyamfi argues that the much-touted project, which was intended to provide substantial agricultural and economic benefits to the northern regions, has become nothing more than a political charade. Announced with great fanfare in 2019, the Pwalugu project was projected to cost $993 million, aiming to create jobs, ensure food security, and transform the arid landscape of the Upper East Region into a lush agricultural hub.
However, according to Gyamfi, the reality on the ground tells a different story. He claims that despite the grand promises and numerous assurances from Dr. Bawumia and the government, the project remains largely unimplemented. There has been minimal construction activity, with local communities seeing little to no progress in the infrastructure development that was supposed to be their economic lifeline.
Gyamfi criticizes what he sees as a deliberate attempt to hoodwink the northern electorate for political gain. “Dr. Bawumia has turned this project into a tool for political expediency rather than a genuine developmental initiative,” he stated. He highlights the disappointment and frustration among the residents, who feel betrayed by one of their own.
Furthermore, Gyamfi points out that the project has faced numerous setbacks, including funding challenges, bureaucratic delays, and alleged mismanagement. He questions the transparency and accountability of the government in handling the project’s finances, calling for a thorough investigation into how the allocated funds have been utilized.
The editorial calls on the government to either fulfill its promises to the northern people or come clean about the true status of the Pwalugu project. Gyamfi stresses that the developmental needs of Northern Ghana should not be reduced to mere political rhetoric but must be addressed with sincere and effective action.
As the editorial gains traction, it underscores a growing sentiment among many northerners who feel neglected and exploited by successive administrations. The Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam and Irrigation Project, initially seen as a beacon of hope, now stands as a contentious symbol of unfulfilled promises and political disillusionment.
