Savannah Region

The Savannah Region is one of Ghana’s six newly created regions, formally established on 15th February 2019 following a successful referendum held on 27th December 2018. The creation of the region was based on recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry on the Creation of New Regions (Brobbey Commission) and formed part of government’s decentralisation policy to bring governance closer to the people and accelerate development.

The referendum recorded an overwhelming endorsement, with over 99% of valid votes cast in favour, reflecting strong local support for administrative autonomy. The region was carved out of the former Northern Region, with Damongo designated as the regional capital.

The Savannah Region lies within Ghana’s Guinea Savannah ecological zone, approximately between Latitudes 8.0°N and 10.5°N and Longitudes 0.5°W and 2.5°W.

Geographical Location and Boundaries

The region is centrally located in northern Ghana and shares boundaries with:

• Upper West Region – to the northwest
• Northern Region – to the east
• North East Region – to the northeast
• Bono Region – to the south
• Bono East Region – to the southeast
• Côte d’Ivoire – to the west (international boundary)
• Burkina Faso – to the north (international boundary)

Covering approximately 35,862 km², the Savannah Region is the largest region in Ghana, accounting for about 15.08% of the country’s total land area. Despite its size, it remains one of the least densely populated regions, with a population density of about 18.05 persons per km².

Regional Overview (2026)

Regional Minister

Hon. Salisu Be-Awuribe is the Savannah Regional Minister. He is a legal practitioner, law lecturer, valuation professional and development expert. He previously served as District Chief Executive for Central Gonja District and brings extensive experience in governance and regional development. He holds qualifications from the Ghana School of Law, University of Ghana, and Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

Administrative Structure

The Savannah Region is administered through 7 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), which serve as the primary units of local governance, planning and service delivery.

MMDAs in Savannah Region

• Bole District
• Central Gonja District
• East Gonja Municipal
• North Gonja District
• Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District
• West Gonja Municipal
• North East Gonja District

Economy

Agriculture remains the backbone of the Savannah Region’s economy, employing a majority of the population. Major crops include maize, rice, yam, groundnuts and sorghum. The region is also a key producer of shea nuts, supporting local processing industries and export markets.

With over 2.6 million hectares of arable land, the region presents strong opportunities for commercial agriculture, irrigation development and agro-processing. Government and development partner interventions continue to support value chain development and climate-resilient agriculture.

Tourism and Investment Opportunities

The Savannah Region is one of Ghana’s leading eco-tourism destinations. Key attractions include:

• Mole National Park – Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve, home to elephants, antelopes and diverse bird species.
• Larabanga Mosque – one of the oldest mosques in West Africa, built in the Sudanese architectural style.
• Salaga Slave Market – an important historical site linked to the trans-Saharan slave trade.
• Mognori Eco-Village – a community-based tourism destination offering cultural experiences.
• Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary – a conservation site along the Black Volta River.
• Jakpa Palace and Cultural Sites – traditional authority centres and heritage landmarks.

These attractions, combined with the region’s vast land resources and strategic location, present significant opportunities for tourism, agriculture, logistics, renewable energy and private sector investment.

Infrastructure and Social Development

Infrastructure development remains a priority for the Savannah Region. Ongoing investments in roads, healthcare, education and water systems are improving connectivity and quality of life.

The University for Development Studies (UDS), located in nearby Tamale, serves as the primary tertiary institution accessible to the region, supporting human capital development. Health services are provided through district hospitals and CHPS compounds across the region.

Strategic Importance

As Ghana’s largest region by land area, Savannah holds significant potential for agricultural expansion, tourism development and cross-border trade. Its strategic location and natural resource base position it as a key frontier for long-term economic growth and regional integration.

Sources: Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs; Ghana Statistical Service (2021 PHC); Ghana Tourism Authority; Ministry of Food and Agriculture; Ghanadistricts Research Team.