A celebration of unity, gratitude, and community pride filled the air in Bolgatanga as the founder of Alagumgube, Mr. Gabriel Agambila, delivered a moving speech at the first anniversary of the association and the commissioning of the first ever Upper East Regional Passport Office.
The event, held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, brought together the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Donatus Akamugri Atanga, traditional rulers, Members of Parliament, and a host of dignitaries.
Mr. Agambila described the day as a truly historic occasion, symbolizing what unity and shared vision can achieve. He recounted the journey of Alagumgube, founded in August 2024 in New Jersey, USA, with a mission to unite the Farefari people, preserve their cultural heritage, and promote community development.
Within just a year, the association has spread across Ghana and abroad with six active chapters, achieving remarkable milestones that reflect collective responsibility and commitment to progress.
He highlighted several humanitarian projects, including donations to the Navrongo Prisons, Upper East Regional Hospital, Mama Laadi Orphanage, and the Anaafobiisi School after a rainstorm destroyed classrooms.
Beyond social interventions, Mr. Agambila said Alagumgube spearheaded the revival of the long-abandoned Upper East Regional Airport project by clearing the runway, securing over 4,000 acres of land, and facilitating official documentation with the Ghana Airports Company Limited.
“Alagumgube doesn’t just advocate for development, we initiate it,” he declared. “It is not everything we must wait for government to begin; citizens can start, and government can expand.”
Speaking about the newly commissioned Passport Office, he revealed that the facility was once an abandoned car park but has now been transformed into a modern administrative space with air conditioners, fans, and elegant furnishings. He noted that the compound had been upgraded with leveled grounds, chippings, and proper parking areas to ensure a comfortable environment for clients.
“This transformation goes beyond a building; it reflects unity, determination, and community partnership,” he said. “It shows what citizens can achieve when they take initiative rather than wait for help.”
He appealed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs to prioritize local residents during recruitment for the new Passport Office, emphasizing the need for staff who understand the people and can serve with respect and pride.
Mr. Agambila also called on government to ensure full implementation of the Farefari (Gurenɛ) language as an examinable subject at the BECE level, saying it will boost students’ performance and cultural confidence.
He expressed deep appreciation to all supporters and partners who made the project possible, particularly Hon. Isaac Adongo for donating air conditioners, ceiling fans, a truckload of chippings, and cash. He also thanked the Bolgatanga Municipal Assembly, the Bongo District Assembly, GCB Bank Ghana Ltd., the Bolgatanga Traditional Council, and dozens of individuals and contractors whose efforts turned the dream into reality.
The association’s founder announced that plans are underway to inaugurate a new branch in Burkina Faso, extending the association’s reach to communities in Pô, Gelwongo, and beyond. He urged members to continue upholding the spirit of unity and service that defines the association.
“As we mark our first anniversary, we are reminded that our strength lies in unity, just as our name, Alagumgube, stands for,” he said. “Let us continue to promote education, support the vulnerable, and work together for the progress of our people and our nation.”
He ended his speech with the association’s signature chant to the loud cheers of the crowd:
“Alagumgube — N de kpe’ego! Alagumgube — N de paŋa! Alagumgube — N maali tiŋa!”
