Accra: A Committee set up to review the elevation of Districts and Municipalities has recommended the upgrading of 33 local Assemblies as part of measures to deepen decentralisation and improve local governance in Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, the recommendations followed an extensive review of data from the Ministry and relevant agencies, stakeholder consultations, and field visits to selected Districts and Municipalities. The Committee engaged traditional authorities and submitted its report. Presenting highlights of the Committee's report, Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, Chairman of the Committee for Elevation of Districts and Municipalities, proposed the elevation of 12 existing Municipalities to metropolitan status.
In addition, one District is recommended for direct upgrade to a metropolitan area due to 'very compelling reasons.' The report also suggests that 20 Districts be elevated to Municipal status. Mr. Asiedu Nketiah stated that beyond the proposed upgrades, additional recommendations aim to strengthen local governance and ensure sustainability in the decentralisation process.
He noted that if these reforms were implemented, future upgrades could become automatic, eliminating the need for similar committees. Proposals include preparing a standard manual to guide future upgrades and developing a strategic plan to address structural gaps in districts. The Committee also recommended designating special development enclaves to promote investment, growth, and economic expansion.
A review of District performance data revealed that some areas required special intervention from the central government to enable them to function effectively as local government units. 'Approximately four such Districts have been identified in the report, although their names are being withheld pending review and approval of the document,' Mr. Asiedu Nketiah added.
Further proposals include developing a three-year plan supported by seed funding to facilitate rapid infrastructure and socio-economic development in newly upgraded areas. The report also recommends increased representation of traditional authorities within the decentralisation framework, recognising their influence and role in community development.
The Committee called for the introduction of Municipal Bonds to enable Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to mobilise revenue and strengthen public-private partnerships linked to specific development projects. It urged the government to enact and implement the Local Government Finance Bill to allow MMDAs access to capital markets and private sector funding for improved service delivery.
The Committee appealed to expedite development efforts in the Ketu South Municipality following concerns raised by chiefs and opinion leaders. It also recommended that Ningo-Prampram and Central Gonja districts be considered for division into two separate districts, citing population growth, economic viability, and vast land size in the case of Central Gonja.
Mr. Asiedu Nketiah described the proposed upgrades as a critical step toward consolidating Ghana's decentralisation agenda, improving planning efficiency, and enhancing socio-economic development. Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Sector Minister, stated that the report would serve as a roadmap for deepening local governance, enhancing service delivery, building the capacity of MMDAs, and empowering communities.
He added that it would guide the Ministry in making informed policy decisions and support the President in fulfilling the government's Resetting Agenda and campaign commitments to the people of Ghana. 'I assure you that the Ministry will study your report carefully and forward the recommendations for the necessary approval by the President and subsequent actions,' he stressed.