U.S Ambassador Meets with Northern Regional Minister to Discuss Security and Healthcare Challenges
Tamale, Ghana – May 14, 2025
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Virginia E. Palmer, has reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to supporting security and healthcare initiatives in Ghana’s Northern Region during a courtesy visit to the Northern Regional Coordinating Council in Tamale.
Ambassador Palmer was received by Northern Regional Minister Hon. Ali Adolf John Mburudiba. The two officials held a strategic dialogue centered on pressing regional challenges, with a strong focus on conflict resolution and development cooperation.
At the heart of their discussions were the region’s enduring security issues, particularly chieftaincy and land disputes. Minister Ali Adolf described these conflicts as major destabilizing factors, often rooted in deep-seated succession rivalries and competition over land ownership and access. He emphasized that these disputes, when unresolved, frequently escalate into violence, cause population displacement, and disrupt local economies.
The Regional Minister also identified water scarcity as a growing concern exacerbating tensions. “Water insecurity is not only a humanitarian issue but a trigger for conflict in vulnerable communities,” Hon. Ali Adolf noted. He appealed for expanded support to address the resource gap, acknowledging ongoing government efforts while highlighting the need for international collaboration.
Ambassador Palmer expressed appreciation for the insights shared by the Minister and emphasized the importance of peace and stability in fostering development. She pledged the U.S. government’s continued support in two critical areas: reinforcing security frameworks and expanding healthcare access in the region.
“In addressing complex challenges like chieftaincy disputes and healthcare accessibility, partnerships are key,” Ambassador Palmer stated. “The United States remains committed to working with regional leaders, security agencies, and communities to build a safer and healthier future for all.”
As part of the visit, the Ambassador and the Regional Minister convened a high-level meeting with the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), where they explored comprehensive strategies to sustain peace and promote stability. Discussions included long-term peacebuilding initiatives, enhancing cooperation between local and international actors, and leveraging diplomatic partnerships to support the Northern Region’s development agenda.
Both parties expressed optimism about future collaboration, recognizing that sustainable development is deeply linked to security and social cohesion. The visit is seen as a significant step in strengthening diplomatic ties and catalyzing development efforts in Northern Ghana.
Source: Issifu Alidu Laa-Bandow//zaaghana.com
