A high-level validation workshop to review and finalise the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework for Ghana’s revised National Urban Policy has been held in Accra on the 29th July, 2025.
The workshop, convened by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs under the Green Cities Infrastructure and Energy Programme (GCIEP), brought together representatives from key Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners, and urban governance experts. The initiative is supported by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
Delivering the opening remarks, PLN. Samuel Seth Passah, Director for Local Governance and Decentralisation at the Ministry, said the event marked a significant milestone in Ghana’s effort to strengthen urban policy implementation.
“This framework is not just a reporting tool. It is an accountability mechanism and a guide for data-driven decisions that improve how our cities grow and serve their people,” he stated.
Developed as part of Workstream 3A of the GCIEP, the M&E Framework outlines structured indicators, baselines, and target outcomes aligned with the National Urban Policy’s core objectives. It is designed to track inputs, activities, outputs, and long-term outcomes, ensuring a results-based approach to urban planning and governance.
In addition to the M&E Framework, a draft Capacity Needs Assessment Report was also shared. The report identifies institutional gaps in staffing, logistics, technical capabilities, and coordination mechanisms across urban governance actors.
A key aspect of the revised Policy is the planned development of an Urban Observatory to support continuous monitoring, evaluation, learning, and reporting. The Observatory is expected to strengthen institutional accountability and provide timely data for informed decision-making.
Participants were encouraged to provide constructive feedback to refine the framework and ensure its operational feasibility across all levels of government.
The Ministry acknowledged the support of the FCDO and the GCIEP team and reiterated its commitment to implementing the framework in ways that advance inclusive, climate-resilient, and economically vibrant cities across Ghana.
Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann
(Public Relations Unit- MLGCRA)