IMCC Convenes Decentralisation Sector Working Group Meeting

The Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee (IMCC) on Decentralisation held its first meeting of the Decentralisation Sector Working Group (DSWG). This meeting included key representatives from the Government of Ghana and Development Partners. The goal was to collaborate and advance Ghana’s decentralisation agenda.

Dr. Gameli Kewuribe Hoedoafia, Executive Secretary of IMCC, opened the meeting. He thanked members for attending and highlighted the government’s commitment to local governance. He noted that decentralisation is a key part of Ghana’s development agenda. The DSWG serves as a platform for policy coordination and dialogue between the government and Development Partners.

He stressed the importance of Development Partners in supporting Ghana's vision for effective decentralisation. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs. It was chaired by Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government.

Hon. Ibrahim reaffirmed the government's dedication to decentralisation under the Reset Agenda. He mentioned that winning the 2024 elections would show public support for these reforms. A major focus is electing Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) non-partisanly.

This change addresses concerns about the current appointment system's undemocratic nature. The Minister outlined priorities to strengthen local governance. He committed to increasing the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) share from 5% to 7.5%. This aims to ensure equitable distribution for local development.

He also mentioned releasing 80% of DACF budget directly to District Assemblies in 2025. Other priorities include enhancing roles of traditional leaders, improving sanitation policies, and strengthening local governance structures. A significant initiative is establishing a University of Local Governance and Development for training local officials.

In closing remarks, Hon. Ibrahim called for strong collaboration with Development Partners to implement these initiatives effectively. Ambassador Simone Giger co-chaired the DSWG meeting and emphasized decentralisation's importance in Ghana.

Drawing from her experiences in Switzerland, she noted that effective decentralisation improves responsiveness and accountability in diverse nations like Ghana. She expressed satisfaction with Ghana's commitment to decentralisation and ongoing engagements with Switzerland.

Ambassador Giger pledged continued support from Development Partners for achieving Ghana’s decentralisation goals aligned with national priorities. The meeting also included Hon. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, and Hon. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children & Social Protection.

The session concluded with a commitment to sustain collaboration among all parties involved in implementing Ghana’s National Decentralisation Policy and Strategy.