Government has allocated $175 million into the Local Government Capacity Project, to support and improve the performance of metropolitan and municipal assemblies in public financial management.
The initiative would provide financial and technical support to the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning as well as the 46 assemblies officially designated as metropolitan or municipal assemblies as at March 2011.
The five years project also seeks to improve citizens’ engagement with urban assemblies and their perceptions of urban management.
Mr Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development made this known during the 2012 Civil and Local Government Staff Association (CLOSAG) Activists Awards Night on Saturday in Accra.
The ceremony which was on the theme: “The Role of the Civil and Local Government Staff in Good Governance,” honoured 26 members who had exhibited rare commitment and professionalism in promoting the activities of the Association.
Mr Ampofo said the work of CLOSAG was very vital in formulating development strategies to stimulate accelerated social and economic growth for citizenry.
He said it was the expectation of every Ghanaian to have access to quality and affordable health care, education, effective waste disposal and good roads to secure environment for themselves and their families.
“This is what Ghanaians expect from you as CLOSAG members. Such a crucial role has been recognised and accommodated for both the Ghana Shared Growth and Development agenda and the National Democratic Congress manifesto for a Better Ghana”, he added.
He appealed to CLOSAG to support government by accepting postings to the new districts and urged the leadership to work closely with the Ministry in identifying the critical core staff for the new districts.
Mr Nii Laryea Afotey-Agbo, Greater Accra Regional Minister, expressed government’s commitment to recognise workers who have contributed immensely to the development of the country.
He said cohesion and development of the country did not only rest on government but a collective responsibility of all.
He urged the Association to sustain and maintain the spirit of nationalism and resist the temptation of resorting to industrial action when channels of negotiation are not fully exhausted.
Alhaji Mahammadu Assibi Azonko, President of CLOSAG, congratulated the award winners and urged them to cultivate the spirit of patriotism and dedication to duty for national development.
Mr Kofi Dumo Asuboten, Obuasi Municipal Cordinating Director was adjudged the Best Activist of CLOSAG.**
