The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs and Member of Parliament for Banda Constituency, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, has underscored the urgent need for data-driven, inclusive, and community led governance as a cornerstone for sustainable development in Africa.

Delivering the keynote address at the 8th Evidence to Action (E2A) Conference and Exhibition held at the Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, Hon. Ibrahim stressed the importance of participatory governance informed by reliable data, citizen feedback, and inclusive decision-making processes.

“Participatory governance must also be evidence informed. Policies are only as strong as the data and insights behind them,” the Minister emphasized, adding that empowering citizens, particularly women, youth, and persons with disabilities, is essential for inclusive development.

The three day conference, jointly organised by the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED) and ISSER, brought together scholars, development practitioners, policymakers, civil society actors, and international partners under the theme “Advancing Participatory Governance for Sustainable Development in Africa.”

Hon. Ibrahim acknowledged ICED and its partners for selecting Ghana to host the conference for the fourth time, and praised the theme for aligning with his Ministry’s renewed vision of “a decentralised local governance, upholding traditional values, religious co-existence in a clean environment for equitable and balanced development.”

He reflected on the unique structure of the Ministry now a tripod encompassing Local Governance, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs noting that the merger reflects a strategic policy shift aimed at harmonizing governance efforts rooted in tradition, faith, and civic administration.

“This structure strategically brings together three key institutions that have always been part of Ghana’s local governance system but operated separately. Their merger fosters collective action for more effective local governance and development,” he stated.

Highlighting major government interventions, the Minister cited the implementation of the Local Economic Development (LED) Policy (2024–2029) and Ghana’s ongoing decentralisation strategy as practical examples of participatory governance in action. The LED Policy, he said, empowers Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to collaborate with local actors to unlock economic opportunities at the grassroots.

Hon. Ibrahim also touched on the Government’s flagship 24-Hour Economy Policy, designed to stimulate productivity and create jobs across key sectors. He announced that 25% of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) will be dedicated to constructing state-of-the-art, culturally relevant markets to support this policy.

“These markets will reflect our cultural identity and respond to the aspirations of market women and local businesses,” he noted.

The Minister also disclosed plans to re-launch the National Sanitation Day (NSD) under the broader “Cleanup Ghana Initiative,” which will go beyond symbolic clean-up exercises to become a sustained, citizen-led behavioural change campaign. He outlined measures for MMDAs to enforce sanitation by-laws, partner with waste management actors, and integrate sanitation into community engagement strategies.

“Sanitation is not the job of waste collectors alone. It is a collective civic obligation,” he asserted.

In closing, Hon. Ibrahim called on participants to generate a practical policy note from the conference one that offers actionable ideas to enhance participatory governance in Ghana and beyond. He pledged the Ministry’s support in translating the conference’s evidence into policy reforms that are grounded in community realities.

“Governance is not just about the state it is about people, communities, traditional leaders, and civil society. Their voices must not be seen as optional, but essential to how we govern,” he concluded.

The 8th E2A Conference continues through July 18, 2025, with panel discussions, exhibitions, and workshops designed to turn data and dialogue into tangible development outcomes across the continent.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Stephanie Edem Klutsey

 (Public Relations Unit- MLGCRA)

In line with the Local Government Act 2016, (Act 936), the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has formally inaugurated the Sixth Local Government Service Council, with a call on council members to drive transformation in local governance and public service delivery.

In his inaugural address on Tuesday, 15th July, 2025 at the Ministry's conference room, the sector Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, noted that the inauguration of the Council was a reaffirmation of the President’s commitment to revitalizing local governance system to deliver results and promote inclusion.

 He indicated that the Local Government Service is the frontline of development, as it always deals with the people at the grassroot and are thus able to transmit feedback to shape policy development that reflect the aspirations of citizens.

In congratulating the members on their appointment, Hon. Ibrahim expressed government's confidence in their capacity to elevate the Local Government Service to greater heights. The Council is chaired by Ambassador Akua Sena Dansua (a former M.P, Minister, and Ambassador).

The Minister reminded them of their statutory mandate as stated in the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), to ensure the effective administration of the decentralized local government system and charged them to promote professionalism, accountability, and measurable performance across the service, noting that a responsive and well-trained workforce is key to modernizing local government.

While recognizing the high expectations despite the increasing complexities in the local governance system, the Minister called for integrity, strategic collaboration, and openness in the execution of their duty as the Sixth Local Government Service Council. He encouraged the Council to forge strong partnerships with institutions and development partners, stressing that a united front will make local government a true engine for national transformation.

Hon. Ibrahim further urged the Council to build on the legacy of their predecessors but exceed it in innovation and impact. He pledged the Ministry’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the Council to address challenges and strengthen service delivery.

Speaking on behalf of the Council, the Chairperson, Amb. Akua Sena Dansua, acknowledged the challenges involved in the system, but assured President John Dramani Mahama that the Council will provide the requisite support, guidance and advice to drive the decentralisation mandate and make Ghanaians proud.

She was of the view that the Council's job is daunting, however, with the experience , expertise as well as the rich and diverse background of the council members, they will work assiduously to make the appointing authority proud, and Ghanaians happy.

The Sixth Service Council , also includes the following as members;   Audrey  Smock Amosa PhD (National Development Planning Commission), Prof Nicholas Awortwi (Institute of Local Government Studies),  Inusah Shirazu (Ministry of Education), Koku Awoonor -Williams (MD, PhD, Ministry of Health). Other members are: Prof. Lord Mensah (Office of Head of Local Government Service), Michael Harry Yamson (District Assembly Common Fund), Amin Abdul -Rahaman (Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs), Alfred Askedy Adjei (National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana), Mahmood Shakil Kpedau (Local Government Workers' Union) and Buipewura Mahama Abdulai Jinapor II ()National House of Chiefs.

The rest are Christopher Kwaku Dapaah, Richard Fiadomor PhD, Nubyl Kakra Vanlare and Mary Ampong.

Source: Chantal Aidoo

Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA

Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has commended the leadership and members of the Methodist Church Ghana, Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit, for their steadfast contribution to spiritual growth, community development, and national cohesion over the past five years.

Delivering a keynote address on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, during the 5th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service at Bethel Chapel in Dawhenya, the Deputy Minister praised the Church for its resilience, purpose-driven ministry, and alignment with the broader national vision of reflection, renewal, and transformation.

“This celebration is not only a commemoration of your five year journey but a moment to acknowledge God’s purpose and faithfulness in expanding your soul-winning frontiers,” she stated on behalf of the Minister.

She extended warm congratulations from His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama, to the leadership of the Tema Diocese, the Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit, and the entire Methodist Church Ghana for their legacy of service to the nation.

The theme of the anniversary, “5 Years of Grace: Reflection on God’s Purpose and Faithfulness,” was noted as deeply resonant with the government’s development agenda, particularly as captured in the recent National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving themed “Reflect, Reset and Renew for National Prosperity.”

Hon. Sowah, quoting Isaiah 46:10 and Isaiah 41:10, emphasized that the Church’s progress is rooted in divine guidance and purpose, and encouraged the congregation to live lives of gratitude, faithfulness, and service.

She applauded the vision and leadership of Rev. Moses Tetteh Terkper, the first Superintendent Minister of the Circuit, and Very Rev. Isaac William Akyerefi-Mensah, along with other past and present leaders whose dedication has brought the Dawhenya-Afienya Circuit to its current standing.

“Let your work be recognised not just among men but by God,” she urged.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Hon. Sowah highlighted the strategic restructuring of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to harmonize religious affairs with decentralised local governance for better development outcomes. She shared updates on key initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy Markets Project, designed to create safe, modern, and inclusive trading spaces across the country.

She called on the Church to support the establishment of 24-hour markets within the Districts by lending community mobilisation and service-based partnerships to support local development.

“Faith-based institutions remain key partners in development. Your cooperation is vital in ensuring that public services reach the people in practical and transformative ways,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the Reset Agenda, focused on improving public service delivery, enhancing decentralisation, and fostering responsible governance at all levels.

“The Government appreciates your impact in shaping thousands of lives through discipleship, education, moral formation, and community service, particularly in Dawhenya, Afienya, Tema, and surrounding areas.”

She concluded by encouraging the congregation to remain anchored in the Methodist spirit of service and discipline, and to continue as vessels of honour for God’s glory.

“As we surge forward, let us reflect Christ in word and deed. Our nation will rise when its people are rooted in righteousness and service.”

The anniversary service brought together dignitaries from the Church, traditional leaders, Ministry officials, the media, and congregants from across the Circuit in a celebration of faith, reflection, and shared commitment to national development.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Stephanie Edem Klutsey

Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA