Abdul Fatawu Alhassan, Member of Parliament for Yendi, has called on authorities managing the GH¢1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund to ensure the facility is effectively administered and strictly used for its intended purpose, to achieve meaningful development in the conflict-affected area.

Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily on Thursday, December 18, the lawmaker described the allocation of the fund as a significant relief, but emphasised that its impact would depend on strong management, transparency, and accountability.

He warned that poor utilisation of the fund could undermine public trust and hinder efforts to stabilise and rebuild Bawku.

“The allocation of the fund is a relief to all of us. What is important now is to ensure that the management of the fund puts it to good use. The government also has a responsibility to be firm on the ground. Sometimes, when diplomacy fails to yield the results we desire, the state must exercise its authority, remain firm, and allow the decisions already taken to be implemented,” he said.

Abdul Fatawu Alhassan stressed the need for robust oversight to guarantee value for money and support sustained peace in the area.

The call follows the government’s announcement of the GH¢1 billion Bawku Revitalisation Fund, established to drive post-conflict reconstruction and development in the Upper East Region. The initiative is based on the Bawku Conflict Mediation Report presented by the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

The fund, scheduled for disbursement between 2026 and 2028, is expected to finance critical infrastructure and socio-economic projects, including roads, healthcare and educational facilities, irrigation and dam projects to promote year-round agriculture, as well as security and commercial infrastructure.