General

Re-Constituted Northern Regional Coordinating Council Inaugurated to Drive Sustainable Development

Tamale: The re-constituted Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC) has been inaugurated with a mission to promote sustainable development in the region. The council, chaired by Mr. Ali Adolf John, the Northern Regional Minister, includes two representatives from the Northern Regional House of Chiefs, all 16 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), as well as Presiding Members of the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Francis Ayamwuni Asobayire, a Circuit Court Judge in Tamale, administered the official and secrecy oaths to the council members during the swearing-in ceremony held in Tamale. He emphasized the legal implications of breaching these oaths and urged the members to remain committed to their responsibilities.

The Regional Minister highlighted the importance of transparency and citizen-centered service delivery to bridge development gaps across different areas. He warned against the misuse of the District Assemblies' Common Fund (DACF), stressing that the funds must be used according to established guidelines. He stated, "The release of funds should not in any way make MMDAs relent in their internal revenue mobilisation efforts. Any infractions in the use of the funds will attract sanctions."

Mr. John expressed appreciation to stakeholders, including traditional authorities, government agencies, and civil society organisations (CSOs), for their contributions to the region's development. He encouraged them to continue supporting the government's efforts towards sustainable growth.

Alhaji Adam Abubakari Takoro, the Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive, affirmed their readiness to collaborate in addressing poverty and empowering communities for sustainable development. The inauguration ceremony was attended by heads of department and agencies, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders in the region.