The Eastern Regional Minister, Mrs Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, has called upon Municipal and District Assemblies (MDAs) within the region to lessen their excessive dependence on funding from the central government and to concentrate on improving Internally Generated Funds (IGF) to expedite development.
During her initial meeting with the newly appointed Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Koforidua last Friday, Mrs Awatey highlighted the pressing necessity for assemblies to transition towards financial autonomy.
She described the existing reliance on central government assistance as a significant obstacle, pointing out that such funds were frequently constrained, delayed, and subjected to national priorities.
“It is, therefore, essential that we, as leaders of local government, start to redirect our attention. You must formulate clear, practical, and innovative strategies to enhance revenue generation within your assemblies,” she stated
The meeting provided a platform for the regional minister and other important stakeholders to get acquainted with the new MMDCEs and to collaborate on development strategies for the region.
Furthermore, Mrs Awatey stressed the importance of local governance, describing it as the level of government closest to the people, where policies are most directly felt and services must be efficiently delivered.
“As you assume office, remember that expectations are high,” she emphasised, adding that, “our people are looking to you for real results, better roads, improved sanitation, quality education, and more.”
She encouraged the MDCEs to explore new revenue streams, enforce existing by-laws, and build the capacity of revenue officers.
She also urged them to engage local stakeholders, including traditional authorities, business communities, and civil society in identifying sustainable avenues for revenue generation.
“Leverage technology to modernise your systems, enhance transparency, and reduce revenue leakages,” she added.
Also present at the meeting was Mr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Policy Advisor at the Office of the Vice President, who echoed the minister’s call for responsible leadership reminded the MMDCEs that public office comes with enormous responsibility and accountability.
“As direct representatives of the President, you no longer have private lives,” he noted and added that, “conduct yourselves above reproach and be cautious with your words and humble in your actions.”
Mr Ampofo also highlighted the government’s strong commitment to decentralisation and said plans were underway to deepen it further.
“You carry the image of the President who is a symbol of humility and service. Work within the law, master your by-laws, and ensure that your actions can stand the test of legal scrutiny,” he advised.
He called on the MDCEs to spearhead socio-economic development in their districts, describing them as the fulcrum of local progress.
“Study, understand, and implement government development agendas effectively. Work in synergy to move the nation forward,” he indicated.
FROM AMA TEKYIWAA AMPADU AGYEMAN, KOFORIDUA
