Originally it was formerly part of the then-larger Bawku East District in August 2004.

The district assembly was located in the eastern part of Upper East Region and had Garu as its capital town.

Major crops include millet, sorghum, maize, rice, and groundnuts.

Like many rural areas in Ghana, the district faces challenges in healthcare access and infrastructure.

The area is home to various ethnic groups, including the Kusasi, Bimoba, and Bisa peoples.