Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has commended the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs for what she described as its pivotal role in advancing Ghana’s decentralisation agenda and strengthening responsive governance.

Following a working visit to the Ministry, the Vice President said the engagement provided an opportunity to assess progress being made in bringing governance closer to the people.

“The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs continues to play a central role in fulfilling the government’s commitment to decentralisation and responsive governance,” she said in a Facebook post.

She disclosed that the Minister, Ahmed Ibrahim, briefed her on several achievements since assuming office, including the successful orientation of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and the issuance of clear guidelines on the utilisation of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).

“It is encouraging to see clear guidance being provided to ensure that DACF resources are used effectively and for their rightful purposes,” she noted.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted the National Decentralisation Dialogue, describing it as a critical platform for shaping the next phase of Ghana’s decentralisation journey.

On traditional governance, she said the Ministry has deepened engagement with chiefs and queen mothers, a move she described as vital for inclusive development.

“Traditional authorities remain indispensable partners in fostering unity, development and effective local governance,” she said.

As part of efforts to strengthen this partnership, allowances for paramount chiefs and queen mothers have been increased by about 300 per cent.

The Vice President further touched on sanitation reforms, noting that the launch of National Sanitation Day work plans is laying the groundwork for a 24-hour sanitation programme.

“Improving public hygiene is central to building healthier and more resilient communities,” she said.

She added that these initiatives have helped restore confidence among investors and development partners, pointing to growing optimism under the current administration.

Addressing the Ministry’s leadership and staff, Professor Opoku-Agyemang described the Ministry as being at the heart of government.

“As we reset the decentralisation agenda, social governance must remain a cornerstone for fostering peace and improving the daily lives of Ghanaians,” she stated.

She also commended efforts to promote accountability in the use of public funds.

“Public resources, particularly DACF disbursements, must be applied transparently and in ways that deliver real value to our communities,” she said.

The Vice President concluded by calling for collective responsibility in governance.

“Government does not work alone. We must continue to treat every stakeholder, at every level, with the respect they deserve if we are to deliver meaningful outcomes for our people,” she added.