Accra: Madam Simone Giger, the Ambassador of Switzerland to Ghana, has emphasized the importance of decentralisation as a means to enhance local development, accountability, and governance efficiency in Ghana. She highlighted the division of Ghana into districts, municipalities, and metropolises, which enables local authorities to make decisions tailored to their specific needs.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Giger made these remarks during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs to discuss national issues. She expressed Switzerland's commitment to supporting Ghana's decentralisation efforts, viewing it as a positive step towards local empowerment. Switzerland is prepared to intensify its support if Ghana maintains its dedication to decentralisation by granting more autonomy to local governments.
Madam Giger pointed out the challenge of providing technical assistance without concurrent political reform. She stressed the importance of empowering local authorities and promoting a participatory approach for decentralisation to be effective. The Ambassador expressed optimism about the work of the Constitutional Review Committee, believing it could lead to more effective governance and better collaboration between central and local authorities.
She also mentioned Switzerland's excitement in supporting the Constitutional Review Committee and the intention of the Swiss Embassy to monitor the distribution of the District Assembly's Common Fund to ensure it benefits local municipalities and metropolises. Madam Giger expressed hope for the success of Ghana's decentralisation reform.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, commended the Swiss Embassy's contributions to decentralisation. He noted that stakeholders were now satisfied with the reforms introduced by President Mahama. Mr. Ibrahim acknowledged challenges in the decentralisation process, especially concerning the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), but highlighted its importance for national development.
The Minister revealed that President Mahama was committed to enhancing decentralisation by consolidating development authorities under the Ministry of Local Government. He disclosed the President's pledge to allocate approximately 80 per cent of the DACF directly to districts, expressing confidence that this initiative could significantly transform Ghana.
