World Bank and Partners Embark on Implementation Support Mission under the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme (GSCSP)

The World Bank, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), the Ministry of Finance, the Office of the Head of Local Government Service (OHLGS), and other key agencies, embarked on an Implementation Support Mission (ISM) under the Ghana Secondary Cities Support Programme (GSCSP), with field visits commencing in the Upper West Region, Wa, on April 8, 2025.

On the first day of the Mission, the team conducted monitoring visits to the Upper West Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and the Wa Municipal Assembly (MA). These engagements formed part of the broader exercise aimed at reviewing implementation progress and assessing the impact of ongoing urban development sub-projects funded through the Urban Development Grants (UDGs) and the Capacity Support Grant (CSG).

The GSCSP, a flagship initiative designed to strengthen urban governance and service delivery in selected secondary cities, operates through two core financing components; the Urban Development Grant (UDG) and the Capacity Support Grant (CSG). The UDG provides performance-based funding to Municipal Assemblies to implement infrastructure projects that enhance mobility, economic activity, and urban resilience. The CSG, on the other hand, focuses on building the institutional capacity of Assemblies, supporting training and technical systems to improve financial management, planning, and local revenue mobilisation.

Within the implementation framework, Regional Coordinating Councils (RCCs) serve as the coordinating and supervisory bodies that provide oversight and technical guidance to the Assemblies, ensuring alignment with national standards. Municipal Assemblies (MAs) are the principal implementers of the Programme, responsible for planning, executing, and reporting on project delivery within their jurisdictions.

As part of the day’s field activities, the team inspected several key projects including the rehabilitation of the VA Jengabari Road (3.9 km) executed by Okiss Co. Ltd, the construction of the Kambali Central Mosque, Dobile Link Road (1.2 km) by M/S P&W Ghanem, and the upgrading of local road and transport infrastructure by M/S Asichaba Investment Ltd. These interventions are contributing significantly to improving urban mobility, access, and economic vibrancy within the municipality.

Beyond physical inspections, the delegation held working discussions with the Assembly’s implementation team to understand the broader developmental impact of the Programme. A key highlight from these interactions was the notable rise in internally generated revenue (IGR) reported by the Wa Municipal Assembly. According to officials, the construction of a new market under the GSCSP had stimulated economic activity, enabling the Assembly to allocate and lease market stalls, which translated into increased revenue performance.

Additionally, under the Capacity Support Grant, revenue officers received targeted training aimed at enhancing their capabilities in mobilizing revenue through innovative and efficient practices. This institutional strengthening has further contributed to the municipality’s improved financial health.

While the GSCSP continues to contribute to multiple development areas within the Assembly, officials emphasised that the revenue growth stands out as one of the most measurable and impactful outcomes of the Programme so far.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann/Sandra Owusu Asamaoah/Stephanie Edem Klutsey

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, joined the diplomatic community at the Pakistan House in Abelenkpe to celebrate Pakistan's National Day. The event, which marked the anniversary of the Lahore Resolution’s adoption in 1940, commemorated the formation of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

In his speech, Hon.  Ibrahim conveyed warm congratulations from the government and people of Ghana to Pakistan, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations. Over the last six decades, Ghana and Pakistan have cultivated a partnership founded on mutual respect, shared values, and a strong commitment to international cooperation.

The Minister reflected on the growth of bilateral relations, especially in trade, education, culture, and diplomacy. He lauded Pakistan’s “Engage Africa Initiative,” which has further deepened engagement with the African continent. One notable milestone he pointed to was Pakistan’s reopening of its High Commission in Accra in June 2022, a move that has significantly strengthened bilateral relations and enabled Ghana and Pakistan to advance their national interests.

“Ghana and Pakistan have witnessed significant strides in economic collaboration, with bilateral trade showing promising growth,” Hon.  Ibrahim remarked. The formation of the Joint Business Council between the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in 2023 exemplifies the shared commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and business exchange between the two countries.

The Minister also emphasized Pakistan's contributions to Ghana’s capacity-building initiatives. Ghanaian leaders have benefited from various training programs in fields such as defense, diplomacy, and technical sectors. These initiatives have played an instrumental role in fostering professional relationships and enhancing institutional development.

The speech also acknowledged the positive influence of the Pakistani community in Ghana, whose contributions span various sectors including engineering, banking, healthcare, and information technology. Their philanthropic efforts, particularly during Ramadan, were recognized for their deep impact on Ghanaian society.

Hon. Ibrahim reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to promoting peace, prosperity, and cooperation with Pakistan. He expressed optimism for the future of the Ghana-Pakistan relationship, confident that ongoing dialogue, increased trade, and strengthened partnerships would yield even greater collaboration for the mutual benefit of both nations.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

Parliament has approved a GH¢4 billion budget for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs to fund key programs and projects in the 2025 fiscal year. The approval includes provisions for assembly members’ allowances, support for traditional authorities, and initiatives aimed at fostering national unity through religious and community development.

The allocated funds will be used to pay allowances for assembly members and traditional leaders, as well as to support various ongoing and new programs within the Ministry. Among the key initiatives is the proposed establishment of a National Prayer Day, a significant step toward enhancing religious cohesion and promoting social unity across the country.

During his address to Parliament, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Agbodza, who is also the Member of Parliament for Adaklu, highlighted that the government plans to integrate assembly members' remuneration into the Common Fund formula. This initiative is under review to ensure equitable distribution and proper compensation for local governance bodies.

This budget reflects the government's ongoing commitment to improving local governance, empowering traditional institutions, and promoting religious harmony in Ghana.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)