We Have Enough Time to Fix Local Government Challenges – Ayariga

Minister for Local Government, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed optimism about addressing challenges confronting Ghana’s local government system, saying the remaining two and a half years of the Mahama administration are enough to turn the sector around.

He believes many of the challenges affecting local governance are organisational in nature and can be addressed through improved coordination, leadership and effective management.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Thursday, September 10, Mr Ayariga said strengthening local government is critical to restoring public confidence, as it is the level of government with which citizens interact most frequently.

“I believe that even though I have barely two and a half years, I believe that that is enough time to fix the system.”

Mr Ayariga said his experience across various sectors of government puts him in a strong position to provide the leadership needed to work with regional ministers and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to improve the system.

He also noted that significant resources are available at the local government level but have not been fully utilised to address some of the challenges confronting the sector.

The Minister said his priority would be to improve coordination and make better use of existing resources to deliver more effectively at the local level.