Ketu north: Reverend Martin Amenaki, Ketu North Municipal Chief Executive, emphasized that meaningful development starts at the Zonal Council level, urging members to diligently fulfill their responsibilities to foster growth in their respective local areas. He made these remarks during the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony of members of the Penyi and Dzodze Zonal Councils.
According to Ghana News Agency, Rev Amenaki highlighted the critical role Zonal Councils play as the initial point of contact in local governance and community development. He stressed the importance of council members working diligently to promote development within their areas. He further urged the members to prioritize revenue mobilisation, emphasizing that internally generated funds are essential for supporting development projects within the municipality.
Rev Amenaki pointed out that Dzodze and Penyi are among the leading revenue-generating areas in the municipality and called upon the councils to enhance collaboration with the Municipal Assembly to boost revenue collection. He also tasked the councils with maintaining law and order and supporting initiatives to promote peace and stability in their communities. Additionally, he encouraged the councils to focus on sanitation by actively participating in the monthly sanitation exercise and motivating residents to keep their environments clean.
He assured the councils of the Assembly's support, stating that necessary interventions would be undertaken to strengthen their operations and improve service delivery.
Mr Bernard Sakyiama, the Ketu North Municipal Coordinating Director, underscored the significance of Zonal Councils within the local governance system, describing them as a vital link between the people and the Municipal Assembly. He explained that under Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 1967, Zonal Council members are foundational in deepening participatory governance and ensuring effective administration at the grassroots level.
Mr Sakyiama outlined the councils' responsibilities, which include supporting revenue mobilisation, maintaining proper records, facilitating community development planning, implementing bye-laws, and acting as focal points for addressing local concerns. He stated that their duties also involve promoting effective governance, engaging community members, and ensuring local development priorities are communicated to the Assembly for action.
In this context, Mr Lawrence Sorkpor retained his position as Chairman of the Penyi Zonal Council, while Mr Richard Selasi Ablor also retained his position as Chairman of the Dzodze Zonal Council.