By: Baba Mohammed Issahaq
A major milestone in Ghana’s efforts to advance sustainable development in the north was achieved on Tuesday, 23rd July 2025, as the Northern Regional Spatial Planning Committee was officially inaugurated at the NRCC Conference Hall in Tamale.
The ceremony, led by Northern Regional Minister Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburudiba on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, brought together regional heads of departments, stakeholders, and development partners to mark what was described as a “visionary and transformative” step in regional planning.
In his address, Hon. Ali Adolf emphasised that the committee’s purpose goes beyond bureaucracy. “It is about reshaping how we plan, build, and manage our space to ensure inclusive development,” he said. He highlighted the Northern Region’s unique challenges and opportunities from its rich cultural heritage to its socio-economic disparities stressing the need for context-driven, data-informed planning.
The committee will be tasked with preparing both regional and sub-regional spatial development frameworks and serving as an adjudicatory body for planning-related complaints and appeals. The Minister called for commitment and collaboration, noting that success would depend on teamwork among institutions and active engagement from all members.
Hon Ali Adolf also revealed that funding had been secured to begin work on the Northern Regional Spatial Development Framework, which is being facilitated by the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority (LUSPA). He urged LUSPA to expedite the process and encouraged committee members to be fully involved.
The inauguration according to Hon Ali Adolf, aligns with Ghana’s broader development agenda, particularly the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act (Act 925) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The committee is expected to play a critical role in shaping long-term development strategies that ensure equitable growth and responsible land use across the Northern Region.
The event ended on an optimistic note, with Hon. Ali Adolf formally declaring the committee inaugurated and wishing its members success in their mission.
