The King and Overlord of Dagbon, His Royal Majesty Yaa Naa Abukari II, has called on the government of the United Kingdom to partner with the Dagbon Traditional Kingdom to accelerate the needed development in the two jurisdictions.

“With similar ancient cities in the UK, I wish to use this opportunity to request for a formation of strong sister city relationship between Yendi and cities in the UK for mutual benefits in areas of development and promotion of culture and tourism.”

Addressing the British High Commissioner, Madam Harriet Thompson, and her delegation during a working visit to the Gbewaa Palace last Friday, August 25, under the auspices of the Yendi MP, the Yaa Naa said he shares similar vision with the King of England, King Charles III for the progress and prosperity of their people.

He disclosed Yendi as the traditional capital of the Dagbon Kingdom and an ancient town harbors a number of tourist sites which serve as places of knowledge and history of the people of the great Kingdom.

Yaa Naa Abukari II added that the Government of Ghana has undertaken so many development projects in this part of the country. However, despite these efforts by the government, Yendi and its surrounding communities still face some development challenges which need support from other development agencies in the country and beyond.

The Dagbon Overlord also commended the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Hon Farouk Aliu Mahama for his high level of commitment and dedication to duty.   

“It is refreshing to note that the Kingdom in its effort towards tackling the challenges as well as attracting development partners some strategies have been put in place by the King aimed at facilitating issues regarding development of the area.”

The Dagbon King said the all-inclusive approach in contributing to the development of the Kingdom is captured in the Ten Years Dagbon Strategic Development plan which “I wish to present to you for your study and support. It is my greatest hope that the document would meet your kind gesture and support.”

Yendi/UK ties

Naa Abukari II further expressed confidence that the people of Yendi and UK can work together to further strengthen Ghana’s relationship with the UK for mutual benefit of both countries.

Unemployment

Yaa Naa Abukari II observed the high rate of youth unemployment remains a major concern to the people of Yendi and called for an urgent attention to address the situation.

According to him, the youth unemployment is attributed to inadequate skills development, low ICT education and implored the British High Commission to assist the youth of Dagbon with scholarships for higher education, skills training, Information Technology Education and any other support the Embassy can offer for the people of Yendi and Dagbon as a whole.