Economy

    IMCC calls for reset of Ghana's decentralisation system

    Ghana's decentralisation efforts need a fundamental reset to improve public service delivery and local development, according to the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation.

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    The Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation (IMCC) has called for a fundamental reset of Ghana’s decentralisation system. This aims to improve public service delivery and accelerate local development. Dr. Gameli Hoedoafia, Executive Secretary of the IMCC, stated that the next phase must focus on the quality of services delivered, responsiveness of local institutions, and tangible development outcomes for citizens. This marks a shift from merely establishing institutions and transferring functions. Dr. Hoedoafia made this call on Monday at the opening of a two-day National Dialogue on Decentralisation and Responsive Governance in Accra. The IMCC organised this dialogue to deliberate on the future of decentralisation and promote responsive local governance. The event's theme was “Resetting Democratic Decentralisation for Accountable Public Service Delivery and Accelerated Local Development.” It brought together regional ministers, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), traditional leaders, and development partners. This initiative fits into Ghana's broader economic and political story of improving governance and public service efficiency. Ghana has pursued decentralisation for over three decades, aiming to bring governance closer to the people. However, the effectiveness of these structures in delivering tangible benefits has been a recurring concern. The new focus on outcomes rather than just processes reflects a growing demand for accountability and efficiency in public spending and service delivery across the nation. Dr. Hoedoafia highlighted that Ghana has made significant progress since the decentralisation process began more than 30 years ago. He cautioned against complacency, stating that existing local governance structures need strengthening to deliver better outcomes. “Policy approval is not our finish line. It is our starting point. The real test now lies in coordination, effective implementation and delivery,” he asserted. Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, emphasized the critical need for stronger financial support for Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). He stated that this support is necessary to enable them to effectively deliver development to local communities. Mr. Ibrahim stressed that without adequate financial resources, MMDAs cannot build capacity or provide essential services like sanitation. He added that MMDAs must have the fiscal space to invest in critical services, rather than merely administering scarcity. Cabinet’s approval of the National Decentralisation Policy and Strategic Framework (NDPS) 2026-2030 presents a significant opportunity. This framework aims to translate policy commitments into measurable improvements in citizens' lives. Dr. Hoedoafia warned against allowing this framework to become another unimplemented policy document. He stressed the need for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to decentralisation. The ultimate measure of decentralisation, he noted, should be tangible improvements in communities, including roads, markets, health facilities, and water systems. Mr. Ibrahim mentioned that the Ministry has issued fee-fixing guidelines for 2026-2030 to establish transparent standards for fees, levies, and charges. Guidelines for the utilisation of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) are also intended to provide assemblies with greater fiscal space. He called for stronger collaboration among the Ministry of Finance, MMDAs, development partners, and civil society to mobilise adequate resources for sanitation, drainage, and flood mitigation. The Minister assured that the Government remains committed to providing the necessary policy and fiscal frameworks. Madam Magdalene Wust, Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana, speaking on behalf of development partners, commended the Government. She praised its continued commitment to decentralisation and the approval of the National Decentralisation Policy and Strategic Framework 2026-2030. She called for stronger oversight, accountability, citizen participation, and financial autonomy at the district level. This renewed focus on implementation and financial empowerment for local government bodies could significantly impact Ghana's economic development and public service efficiency in the coming years.

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