President John Dramani Mahama has urged traditional leaders to work more closely with government to improve development and governance at the district level.
Speaking during an engagement with the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs at the Presidency, President Mahama said chiefs have an important role to play in shaping development in their communities.
He said traditional authorities are well placed to help government better understand the needs of local communities and ensure that development projects respond to those needs.
President Mahama also pointed to proposed changes under the ongoing review of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. He said the reforms could give traditional rulers a stronger role in the work of District Assemblies.
The President further called on chiefs to strengthen their collaboration with District Chief Executives (DCEs).
According to him, the partnership is necessary to ensure that resources allocated to districts are properly used and translated into projects and services that directly benefit residents.
“Chiefs are uniquely positioned to support development in their communities,” President Mahama said.
He also announced a plan to establish a 24-hour market in each of Ghana’s 261 districts as part of efforts to boost economic activity.
The initiative, he said, would give farmers and traders more opportunities to sell their produce and goods while supporting economic activity in communities across the country.
President Mahama also highlighted government’s plans to accelerate development in Ghana’s six newly created regions, including the Ahafo Region.
Several road projects in the Ahafo Region, he said, have been included in the government’s Big Push programme.
The President said government would continue to engage traditional authorities as strategic partners in promoting economic growth, development and effective governance.
