A Volta Regional representative of the Council of State, Mr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah, has advised Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure strong and practical local leadership.
He gave the advice when he spoke as guest speaker at the 2025 Volta Regional Annual Conference of Presiding Members held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, the regional capital.
The conference brought together presiding members and MMDCEs from all 18 districts in the region.
“This is my first official engagement with all presiding members since my election as the Volta Region’s representative to the Council of State,” he stated.
Addressing the presiding members, he encouraged them to work closely with MMDCEs and involve community members in decision-making, stressing that people in the districts are looking for results: better roads, clean water, jobs, and improved local services.
To this end, Mr Kwamigah charged them to keep in line with the theme of the conference: “Resetting Local Leadership for National Rebuilding; Advancing Decentralisation, Participation and Sustainable Development.”
Mr Kwamigah indicated that he considers assisting them as a personal duty to remain committed to supporting local assemblies whenever the need arises.
“I will continue to represent the interests of the region, advocate more like ‘Oliver Twist’, and share information that can help improve development at the district level,” he added.
He further encouraged all MMDCEs who were also present to adopt innovative ways to boost Internally Generated Funds (IGF) by looking beyond the traditional property rates and basic fees.
In response to their request, he made a personal donation of a substantial amount, a ceremonial gown with a customized logo of their respective assembly, a copy of the Local Governance Act 936, the Standing Orders and a gavel, adding that these items were symbols of their authority and responsibility.
He offered to cover the expenses incurred for the conference.
By Samuel Kwesi Appah-Peniel
