Accra: The Government of Ghana, through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), has inaugurated the sixth Governing Council of the Local Government Service (LGS).
According to Ghana News Agency, the LGS Governing Council, comprising 15 members, is tasked with guiding the strategic policy direction of the Service. This involves ensuring alignment with national development priorities while addressing the evolving needs of communities across the nation.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for MLGCRA, highlighted that the inauguration signifies the President's renewed commitment to strengthening local governance and enhancing public service delivery at the grassroots level, as part of the government's resetting agenda. He emphasized that the Local Government Service acts as the frontline of governance, translating the aspirations of Ghanaians into tangible outcomes.
The Minister pointed out the significant impact of the Local Government Service, which influences livelihoods, promotes inclusion, and drives development across communities. He noted that the LGS Council plays a crucial role in achieving the objectives outlined in Section 51 of the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), which aims to secure the effective administration and management of the decentralized local government system in Ghana.
Mr. Ibrahim stressed the expansive and consequential mandate of the Council as outlined in the law (Sec 54). He called for the empowerment of officers at the Office of the Heads of Local Government Service, Regional Coordinating Councils, and the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies to deliver meaningful results.
He also mentioned the importance of clear and measurable standards for performance, which will serve as the compass guiding the LGS Council towards excellence, enabling fair appraisal of progress. Coordinating training and professional development initiatives will be central to their success, as a skilled and responsive workforce is essential in pursuing a modernized and people-focused Service.
The Minister urged the Council to work with integrity and strategic collaboration, forging strong partnerships across institutions and with development partners who act as co-creators in the progress sought. He emphasized that the Council's work should be marked by openness, accountability, and results-oriented engagement.
Madam Akua Sena Dansua, the Chairperson for the LGS Governing Council, expressed that Ghanaians are counting on the Council to reignite the spirit of local governance and ensure citizens, particularly at the grassroots, receive the quality of service and development they deserve. She assured the President and Ministry leadership of the Council's readiness to deliver on their mandate with their support and guidance.
With the collective expertise, experience, and insight of the Council Members, Madam Dansua expressed confidence that they will rise to the occasion.