I’ll seek increased funding for Chieftaincy Institution if approved – Ayariga

Mahama Ayariga, the minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, pledged to secure increased government funding for the Chieftaincy Institution if approved by Parliament. He described the Chieftaincy Institution as one of the most important, constitutionally guaranteed establishments in Ghana, responsible for legislative and adjudicatory roles within the traditional governance system.

Ayariga emphasized that traditional authorities play a crucial role in local, regional, and national governance, and adequate financial support for the institution could significantly improve governance at various levels. He assured the committee that he would work with the Minister for Finance to ensure sufficient budgetary allocations are made for the Chieftaincy Institution.

Additionally, Ayariga stressed the potential for revenue mobilization within the local government system, suggesting that improving the collection of internally generated funds could provide additional resources for critical sectors. He also highlighted the important role chiefs play in supporting local governance, noting that they contribute to community management and governance.

Ayariga outlined a two-pronged approach to supporting the Chieftaincy Institution, first by exploring increased allocations from central government and second by encouraging local government authorities to mobilize the revenues due to the assemblies.