Mahama urges chiefs to take active role in district development

President John Dramani Mahama has called on traditional leaders, or chiefs, to actively participate in the development of their districts and collaborate with District Chief Executives to ensure proper utilization of public resources. He emphasized that chiefs play a crucial role in overseeing local development initiatives, especially as the government increasingly directs funds directly to District Assemblies.

Mahama made this request during a visit by a delegation from the Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, headed by its president, Nana Barima Twereku Ampem III.

The President highlighted that government has allocated 80 percent of the District Assemblies Common Fund directly to the districts, which has significantly enhanced the financing of local development projects. He further informed that the Finance Minister releases these funds promptly every quarter, ensuring timely financial support.

Mahama urged chiefs to work closely with District Chief Executives to ensure that the allocated resources are properly invested in projects that meet the needs of their respective communities. He also announced plans to build a 24-hour market in each of Ghana's 261 districts. These markets, according to the President, will stimulate economic activity and provide farmers with outlets to sell their produce, thereby improving their income.

The government, Mahama added, would consider expanding this market initiative to other economically viable traditional markets after the completion of the district-level projects.