The Ministry for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development (MLGDRD) in conjunction with the Ministry of Finance and the UN Habitat, has convened an orientation workshop at AH Hotel for the initial beneficiary Metropolitan and Municipal District Assemblies (MMDAs) of the Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Abdulai Abanga, Deputy Minister in a speech read on behalf of the sector Minister, Hon. Martin Adjei Mensah Korsah, commended the Abuakwa South Municipal Assembly for their exemplary leadership as a pioneering example of sustainable urban development through the utilization of SDG Cities and and People-centered Smart Cities approaches, which has paved the way for nine additional MMDAs to join the programme.
“Ghana’s unwavering commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) since 2016 is evident through our robust processes and partnerships,” Hon. Abanga stated. “The Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme marks a significant milestone in our pursuit of sustainable development, demonstrating our dedication to transforming urban spaces.”
The Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme, a flagship initiative of the UN-Habitat and its member states, aims to enhance local-level delivery of Agenda 2030 through data collection, analysis, and incentivized SDG Certification.
Supported by the Government of Norway, the programme will be implemented in ten cities and districts, aligning seamlessly with Ghana’s development plans.
Key cities involved in the programme include Accra, Kumasi, Sekondi-Takoradi, Tamale, Obuasi, Techiman, Kyebi, Dzodze, Wenchi, and Elmina. The initiative focuses on improving evidence-based planning, strengthening local institutions, digitizing government services, and preparing a pipeline of projects for financing through the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the private sector.
“We are at a pivotal moment in our development journey,” Hon. Abanga emphasized. “This programme is not just about adopting new technologies; it’s about reimagining our urban spaces to prioritize the well-being of our citizens and the health of our planet.”
The Deputy Minister called on all participants to embrace innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. As Ghana embarks on this transformative journey, the Smart SDG Cities Programme promises to create smarter, more inclusive, and resilient cities, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development.
Source : Darling Maame Efua Cann & Stephanie Edem Klutsey
(Public Relations Unit, MLGDRD)