Koforidua: The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) and its partners have conducted a regional dialogue in Koforidua aimed at reinforcing local accountability through citizen engagement. The event was part of the 'Civic Engagement on the Rule of Law and the Fight Against Corruption in Ghana' project, which is under the Participation, Accountability and Integrity for a Resilient Democracy (PAIReD) Programme.
According to Ghana News Agency, the programme is implemented by GIZ, the Ministry of Finance, and the NCCE to advance good governance and accountability. Ms Kathleen Addy, Chairperson of the NCCE, addressed participants, emphasizing that the PAIReD Programme was commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and co-financed by the European Union and the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. She highlighted that the rule of law and public accountability are vital to democratic governance and influence fairness in public service delivery and access to information.
Ms Addy stated that many citizens at the regional and district levels face challenges in accessing information, navigating legal systems, and engaging with public institutions, which undermines accountability and public confidence. She noted that Ghana continues to face issues with corruption and that progress requires responsive institutions and informed citizens, stressing that civic education and dialogue are crucial.
The dialogue included participation from state institutions, students, youth groups, civil society, traditional leaders, and the media, all working to clarify reporting channels, strengthen trust in lawful processes, and encourage responsible civic participation. A speech by Mr Ebenezer Amoah, Chief Director of the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, highlighted that accountability at regional and district levels impacts daily life, affecting infrastructure, healthcare, and more.
Mr Amoah added that government credibility hinges on responsible management of public resources and addressing corruption requires prevention and collective responsibility. He urged local leaders to maintain financial discipline and ethical leadership, while empowering oversight bodies and ensuring public officials demonstrate integrity.
Speakers guiding the discussions included Mrs Mary Awelana Addah, Executive Director of Transparency International Ghana; Dr Daniel Appiah, Lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School; and Mr Michael Nkansah, Eastern Regional Director of CHRAJ.