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The Bono East Regional Minister, Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi, has called on all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) within the region to prioritize the strengthening of their internal revenue systems as a key strategy for sustainable local development.
Hon. Owusu Antwi disclosed the urgent need for assemblies to move away from excessive dependence on central government transfers and external aid. He explained that building a strong internal revenue base would empower local authorities to independently fund critical development initiatives.
Hon. Owusu Antwi made the remarks during the confirmation of Hon. Baada Kofi John as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Nkoranza North. The event brought together key stakeholders, including assembly members, traditional leaders, and local government officials.
He further urged Assembly Members to engage more actively with the substructures of the Assembly, including unit committees, area councils, and zonal councils to ensure that grassroots concerns are addressed and community aspirations are met.
“It is for this reason that we must work together to strengthen our internal revenue systems by actively supporting enhanced compliance. By doing so, we reduce our over-reliance on central government transfers and external aid, and take ownership of our developmental and development agendas.
“I wish to call on Honorable Members to actively engage with the substructures of the Assembly, unit committees, and area or zonal councils. Your leadership and collaboration at that level will ensure that the aspirations of our communities are not only heard but met to bring development to the doorsteps of their citizens.” He stated.
Hon. Francis Owusu Antwi also urged Assembly Members and other stakeholders to rise above political and personal interests for the sake of development. He also charged the newly confirmed DCE, Hon. Baada Kofi John, to provide visionary leadership, foster teamwork, and encourage inclusive dialogue on key development initiatives.
“As we assume office, let us not allow political differences, personal interests or partisanship to cloud or derail our collective effort. The development of our district must remain our top priorities.
“To our district chief executive, I urge you to foster teamwork and ensure that the assembly functions effectively, provide the new better leadership, space for dialogue and both consensuals on key development initiatives. To our traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations and the entire citizens, your support and collaboration are indispensable.” He said.
The Bono East Regional Minister also acknowledged the critical role of traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens in the local governance process.
“Local governance is a shared responsibility and we must work and we must all work together to create vibrant, resilient and prosperous communities.
Source: Ghanaweb.mobi
