The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development has convened a meeting of an inter-sectoral Technical Committee on Rural Development. The meeting, brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Bureau of Integrated Rural Development-Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (BIRD-KNUST), various ministries, and other governmental agencies, to deliberate on the National Rural Development Policy.

The Chief Director of the Ministry, Mr. Amin Abdul Rahaman, in his opening remarks, emphasized the critical role of rural communities in the nation’s growth agenda. He underscored the importance of a holistic and inclusive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges these communities face, ranging from inadequate infrastructure and limited access to basic services to economic vulnerabilities and environmental concerns.

"This meeting marks a pivotal moment as we seek to lay the foundation for a more integrated and sustainable approach to rural development," Mr. Abdul Rahaman stated. He highlighted the significance of the situational analysis report prepared by BIRD-KNUST, which provides a comprehensive assessment of the current state of rural development across the country. The report is expected to serve as a cornerstone for strategic interventions aimed at transforming rural communities.

Key policy ideas discussed during the meeting included the necessity of enhancing internet connectivity in rural areas, incentivizing companies to invest in these regions, and creating more rural job opportunities. The committee also explored the potential role of cooperatives in rural development and stressed the need for attitudinal change, social accountability, and robust inter-sectoral partnerships.

Mr. Abdul Rahaman further outlined the steps taken by the Ministry towards the policy review. These include signing an MOU with BIRD-KNUST, developing a concept note and roadmap, establishing terms of reference, and forming the inter-sectoral technical committee. The submission of the situational analysis report by BIRD-KNUST and the ongoing review by the committee mark critical milestones in the policy review process.

The Chief Director called for active participation and collaboration among all sectors represented, stressing that the success of the rural development agenda hinges on leveraging the collective strengths and expertise of the committee members.

As the meeting concluded, participants were encouraged to contribute actionable recommendations that will shape the future of rural development initiatives in Ghana. The outcomes of this meeting are expected to significantly influence the revision of the National Rural Development Policy, paving the way for more effective and sustainable growth in rural communities across the nation.

SOURCE: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Sandra Owusu Asamoah

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

The Paramount Chief and Elders of the Wusuta Traditional Area in the North Dayi District of the Volta Region have sought the intervention of the Hon. Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, regarding the delayed 11km road project from Vakpo to Wusuta.

The delegation, led by the Paramount Chief, paid a courtesy call on the Minister to express their concerns about the abrogation of the road contract. Initially awarded by the government, the project has faced significant delays, leading to its cancellation. The Wusuta Traditional Authority is now advocating for the contract to be repackaged and reawarded to ensure the road's completion, which is critical for the socio-economic development of the area.

Hon. Adjei-Mensah Korsah warmly received the delegation and acknowledged the importance of the project to the people of Wusuta. He assured the Chief and Elders of his commitment to follow up on the matter, stating that the Ministry would undertake the necessary investigations and take appropriate steps to address their concerns.

"The concerns you have raised are valid, and I want to assure you that the Ministry will take the necessary steps to ensure that the situation is resolved," the Minister said.

SOURCE: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Humble Owusu Yeboah

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

The management of Prefos Limited, a leading provider of Turkish innovative street lighting solutions, has paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development (MLGDRD), Hon. Martin Agyei-Mensah Korsah. The visit aimed to introduce Prefos' expertise and explore potential collaborations to enhance the safety, security, and aesthetic appeal of communities across Ghana, in line with the Ministry’s vision for sustainable development and improved local governance.

The delegation was led by Wendy Agyemang Duah, Managing Director of Prefos Limited, who was accompanied by a team of seasoned professionals with expertise in cutting-edge lighting technologies. During the meeting, Wendy Agyemang Duah highlighted Prefos Limited’s successful track record in Ghana, citing notable projects such as the installation of advanced lighting systems at Wa Airport, Kotoka International Airport, the Volta River Authority, and the Ablankese Sports Stadium in Kumasi. These projects, she noted, underscore Prefos’ capability to deliver high-quality, innovative lighting solutions.

In his welcome address, Hon. Martin Agyei-Mensah Korsah commended Prefos Limited for its impressive track record in delivering innovative infrastructure solutions and its significant contributions to Ghana’s development. He acknowledged the positive impact of Prefos’ work on national infrastructure, noting that the lighting systems installed at Wa Airport, Kotoka International Airport, the Volta River Authority, and the Ablankese Sports Stadium have greatly enhanced the nation’s infrastructure and improved the quality of life for citizens.

The Minister further emphasized the Ministry’s recognition of the critical role that partnerships with companies like Prefos can play in addressing the nation’s infrastructure challenges. He expressed eagerness to explore potential collaborations with Prefos Limited to leverage their expertise in advancing the Ministry’s goals for sustainable development and improved local governance across the country.

SOURCE: Humble Owusu Yeboah

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)