In a move towards enhancing local governance and economic development, Divine Ayidzoe, Director of Research Statistics and Information Management at the Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development (MLGDRD), has reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to empowering Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in their revenue generation efforts.

His remarks came during the launch of the “Participation, Accountability and Integrity for a Resilient Democracy” (PAIReD) programme, aimed at supporting the National Decentralization Policy Strategy 2020-2024.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Ayidzoe emphasised that MMDAs are making commendable strides in executing developmental projects without solely relying on government funding.

“The policy objectives encompass the empowerment of local authorities with greater autonomy in decision making and resource allocation and financial management to ensure fiscal sustainability for local governments reducing their reliance on central government funding and citizen participation”, he said.

The PAIReD programme, initiated by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, seeks to enhance the efficiency and transparency of Ghana’s intergovernmental transfers and local public finances.

The initiative will support the implementation and review of the Intergovernmental Fiscal Framework, ensuring that MMDAs can better manage their financial resources.

Astrid Kohl, Programme Director of PAIReD, highlighted the necessity for integrated action plans across the country to promote development.

Implemented by GIZ in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, the PAIReD program aims to advance local governance, improve public service delivery, and enhance accountability processes across Ghana.

As the country navigates its path towards sustainable development, this initiative represents a crucial step in empowering local authorities to take charge of their economic futures.