The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has commended assemblies in the Greater Accra Region for improved accountability and stronger project presentations during the ongoing assessment of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
Speaking after assessment visits to Tema Metropolitan Assembly, Krowor Municipal Assembly, Tema West Municipal Assembly and Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly, the Minister noted significant improvements in the quality of presentations and financial accountability compared to the initial stages of the exercise.
According to Mr. Ibrahim, the role of the media in promoting transparency and accountability has contributed significantly to the progress recorded so far.
He said the continuous media coverage of the exercise has pushed assemblies to improve performance and ensure better delivery of development projects.
Mr. Ibrahim particularly praised the Ledzokuku Municipal Assembly for standing out in infrastructure delivery, describing the assembly as one of the strongest performers among the four assemblies visited.
He noted that Ledzokuku demonstrated clear evidence of how public funds had been utilised, with visible infrastructure projects and contractors actively working on site.
The Minister explained that the assembly provided detailed presentations on financial expenditure, project implementation and physical progress, showing a strong commitment to accountability and development.
Despite the progress, Mr. Ibrahim raised concerns over the poor management of records for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across several assemblies.
He criticised the continued use of outdated beneficiary albums, some dating as far back as 2018, warning that such practices undermine transparency in the disbursement of funds allocated to Persons with Disabilities.
According to him, the absence of updated records creates room for inefficiency, misuse of funds and possible corruption.
Mr. Ibrahim announced that the Ministry would issue a circular within two weeks directing all assemblies to update and validate their PWD beneficiary albums.
He stressed that the updated records must include beneficiaries’ photographs, Ghana Card numbers, registration details and GPS locations to ensure accurate identification and prevent ghost names from benefiting from the funds.
The Minister further called on social welfare officers, assembly members and local leaders to ensure the registration and validation exercise is carried out effectively.
He noted that the government has increased allocations for Persons with Disabilities, making it critical to strengthen accountability and transparency in the management of the funds.
On infrastructure development, Mr. Ibrahim also called for joint collaboration among assemblies within the Tema enclave to redevelop the Ashaiman-Teshie market area into a modern market facility.
He urged Tema Metro, Tema West, Krowor and Ledzokuku assemblies to work together with traditional authorities and relevant stakeholders to develop a state-of-the-art market on the Spintex Road corridor.
According to him, the current state of the market is unacceptable and does not reflect modern urban development standards.
Mr. Ibrahim said the redevelopment project would improve trading conditions for market women and create a more dignified and secure environment for business activities.
He assured the assemblies that the central government would support the initiative if local authorities demonstrate commitment and collaboration toward the project.
The Minister reiterated government’s commitment to deepening accountability, improving service delivery and accelerating development across all assemblies.
By Emmanuel Nelson Ebelin
