Wa landlords reaffirm release of school land for 24-Hour Economy Market

Traditional leaders in Wa have moved to settle controversy over land ownership, confirming that the site currently occupied by Tendamba Primary School will be released for the construction of a proposed 24‑hour economy market.

At a press conference in the Upper West Region on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, representatives of the Balume Clan, comprising the Suuriyiri, Kpaguri, Sokpayiri, and Puohunyiri gates, addressed disputes raised earlier this month by some members of the Sokoyiri family.

Reading a statement on behalf of the landlords, spokesperson Abdul‑Wahab Tendana Osman dismissed the February 7 objections as misleading. “They maintained that the group behind the opposing statement lacked the customary and traditional authority to speak on land matters on behalf of the Wa landlords,” the statement said.

Custodianship and history of the land

According to the landlords, the parcel of land on which Tendamba Primary School stands falls under the Puohunyiri gate. They explained that the site was originally designated by government in the 1960s for school construction, and that elders familiar with the boundaries recognize the Puohunyiri gate’s custodianship.

The landlords further clarified that the Sokpayiri community does not hold ownership rights over the land, stressing that recognized representatives of the Sokoyiri family were part of consultations and supported the final decision.

Agreement and next steps

The Balume Clan said consultations were held with the Wa Naa, his sub‑chiefs, the municipal assembly, and the rightful landowning family before elders of the four gates unanimously agreed to release the land for the market project.

Arrangements are now underway to relocate Tendamba Primary School to a new site. Officials say a modern classroom block with ancillary facilities will be constructed simultaneously to ensure that education in the community is not disrupted.

A commitment to development

The landlords described the agreement as a demonstration of respect for traditional authority and a shared commitment to Wa’s development. They emphasized that the decision reflects unity among the gates and a willingness to support government’s 24‑hour economy initiative, which aims to expand business opportunities and create jobs nationwide.