Bolgatanga Municipal District

Roland Atanga Ayoo,  Municipal Chief Executive - Bolgatanga Municipal District

Abount Bolgatanga Municipal District

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Profile of MCE
Roland Atanga Ayoo was confirmed as Municipal Chief Executive in early 2025, bringing a renewed focus on infrastructure, education, and agricultural modernization. Mr. Ayoo, widely known as “Yaaba,” is celebrated as the longest-serving constituency secretary in the history of Bolgatanga Central, having served for over 19 years in various leadership capacities within the party and the region.

His administration emphasizes transparency, stakeholder engagement, and strategic use of donor-funded initiatives such as the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project. Bolgatanga Municipal, located at the heart of Ghana’s Upper East Region, serves as both the municipal and regional capital. It spans approximately 334 square kilometers and shares boundaries with Bongo District to the north, Talensi and Nabdam Districts to the south and east, and Kassena-Nankana East and West Districts to the west.

As of the 2021 census, the population stands at 139,864, with a higher female population (52.4%) and a predominantly urban demographic. The municipality is a major commercial hub, known for its vibrant central market, leather goods, straw baskets, and the iconic “Bolga hats.”

Agriculture remains a key economic activity, with crops such as millet, maize, rice, groundnuts, and vegetables cultivated across 70% of the land area. Livestock and poultry rearing are also widespread, though largely practiced on a small scale. The municipality faces challenges including erratic rainfall, soil erosion, and youth migration, but continues to invest in agro-processing, irrigation, and market access to boost productivity.

Four major development projects have been launched. First, the construction of a three-unit classroom block at Sherigu Community Day SHS under the SOCO initiative is nearing completion, aimed at expanding access to secondary education. Second, the establishment of a modern CHPS compound in Soe-Yipaala, featuring well-equipped restrooms, kitchen, and patient wards, is set to improve primary healthcare delivery. Third, the commissioning of two mechanized boreholes in Damwoe and Amogrebisi, valued at GH¢201,599, is supporting dry-season irrigation and water access for rural farmers.

Fourth, the rehabilitation of the Azoribisi footbridge, though delayed due to funding gaps, remains a priority to restore connectivity between Azoribisi and Dindoobisi communities, especially for schoolchildren affected during the rainy season.
These projects reflect Bolgatanga’s commitment to education, health, agriculture, and infrastructure. With continued support from development partners and active community participation, the municipality is positioning itself as a resilient and forward-looking urban center in northern Ghana.