In the aftermath of the Budget Hearing on November 15, 2023, the Hon. Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development engaged in crucial discussions with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to address challenges surrounding Property Rate revenue collection. The decision to revert this responsibility back to the Assemblies prompted a meeting focused on identifying issues and formulating solutions.

The Hon. Minister directed the establishment of a specialized committee. This committee is mandated to assess the current interim arrangement critically. Its objective is to propose a strategic way forward, emphasizing steps to enhance the efficiency of property rate collection.

The meeting conducted a thorough analysis of previous property rate collection efforts by GRA. This involved a detailed examination of challenges faced, an understanding of the collection process, and identification of areas for improvement.

Upon formation, the committee will be tasked with proposing strategies to address identified issues and outlining steps to streamline and improve the interim property rate collection process.

The committee will promptly initiate its assessment, with findings to be presented to the Ministry. Recommendations for improvements and a revised plan for property rate collection will be developed.

The meeting underscored the need for a comprehensive assessment of the current interim arrangement for Property Rate revenue collection. The establishment of a committee signals a commitment to proactively address issues and ensure an efficient and effective property rate collection process. This collaborative effort between the Ministry and GRA aims to enhance revenue generation for the Assemblies, contributing significantly to the overall decentralization and rural development agenda.

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development (MLGDRD) recently organized a one-day orientation focusing on critical aspects of local governance and service delivery. The primary objective was to equip National Service Personnel with essential knowledge to actively contribute to human resource capacity building for enhanced efficiency.

Amin Abdul-Rahaman, Chief Director, set the tone by emphasizing the importance of respect, a willingness to learn, and a serious commitment to duty in his opening address.

Insights into Human Resource Management (HRM) functions, covering recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and employee relations were provided by the Human Resource Directorate

Policy, planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation, and their role in efficient resource utilization and policy implementation was explored.

Specialized units outlined their functions, with emphasis on communication and stakeholder relations from the Public Relations Unit, effective internal controls from the Internal Audit and a commitment to excellent service from Client Service Unit.

The significance of ethics and a code of conduct in the civil service was highlighted, ensuring integrity and professionalism, with a reminder of principles such as honesty, confidentiality, fairness, and transparency.

This orientation not only provided National Service Personnel with valuable insights into local governance and decentralisation mandate but also showcased the diverse functions of specialized units within the ministry. Looking ahead, the ministry is dedicated to further engaging and empowering personnel for enhanced efficiency during their service period.

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development (MLGDRD) in a meeting chaired by Hon. Minister of State O. B. Amoah, recently engaged in a collaborative session with the World Bank Team to drive forward key initiatives aimed at fostering social cohesion and improving urban mobility in the Gulf of Guinea region.

The discussions zeroed in on two transformative projects: The Gulf of Guinea Social Cohesion (SOCO) Project and the upcoming Kumasi Urban Mobility and Accessibility Project (KUMAP). The SOCO Project's ongoing implementation progress was reviewed, with an emphasis on continuous monitoring and evaluation to ensure the project aligns seamlessly with its intended objectives.

For the KUMAP Project, discussions focused on gleaning insights from past projects to optimize efficiency in its developmental goals during the preparation stage. The Ministry stressed the importance of meticulous planning, clearly defined project objectives, and robust implementation arrangements. Social development dynamics were also a key consideration to ensure sustainability and positive impact on citizens' lives.

While chairing the meeting, Hon. O. B. Amoah highlighted the significance of establishing a well-defined leadership structure at the inter-ministerial level. This, he noted, would ensure clear responsibility assignment, drawing inspiration from best practices and success stories in other jurisdictions. The Minister emphasized the importance of learning from global experiences to enhance the local approach, ensuring successful outcomes for both projects.

The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to a strategic and informed approach to project execution, with an unwavering focus on achieving tangible social development outcomes. As the SOCO Project continues its implementation, and preparations for the KUMAP Project advance, the Ministry remains dedicated to embracing international best practices, ensuring the efficient and sustainable delivery of these critical initiatives.