By Isaac Newton Tetteh, GNA
Kpone, July 31, GNA – The Institute of Local Government Studies (ILGS) has organised a two-day capacity-building programme for assembly members of the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly (KKMA) to enhance their understanding of local governance concepts and improve effectiveness in the discharge of their duties.
The training, which brought together elected and government-appointed assembly members, focused on key areas including bye-laws, standing orders, the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), and other relevant legal and administrative frameworks guiding local governance in Ghana.
Dr Abankwa Agyapong, Lead Facilitator of the Institute of Local Government Studies, explained various concepts underpinning Ghana’s local governance system and their relevance to effective grassroots development.
Dr Agyapong said metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs) remained critical agents of development within their respective jurisdictions, and therefore assembly members must understand their roles and responsibilities within the framework of the law.
He noted that while assembly members were expected to champion development initiatives in their electoral areas, such efforts must always be undertaken in conformity with existing laws and regulations.
According to him, assembly members must perform their duties in accordance with established standing orders, which serve as a guide for proceedings and decision-making within the assembly.
He advised members to make it a habit to study their standing orders regularly to become familiar with the dos and don’ts associated with their work.
“Knowledge of the standing orders will enable assembly members to effectively participate in assembly business while avoiding actions that may undermine established procedures,” he stated.
Dr Agyapong urged participants to apply the knowledge acquired during the training to strengthen local governance and promote development in their communities.
Mr George Nuetey Ahinguah, Presiding Member of the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly, expressed appreciation to the Institute of Local Government Studies for organising the training programme.
Mr Ahinguah said the knowledge imparted to participants would enhance their understanding of local governance and improve their contributions to assembly deliberations and development planning.
He noted that assembly members could only ask for more of such training programmes to further equip them with the requisite skills and competencies needed to perform their duties effectively.
He said continuous capacity building was essential for assembly members, particularly in view of the evolving nature of local governance and development challenges confronting communities.
The participants commended the organisers for the practical nature of the training and called for similar programmes to be organised periodically.
The initiative forms part of efforts to strengthen local governance structures and improve service delivery at the grassroots level through enhanced capacity and professionalism among assembly members.
GNA
Edited by Laudia Anyorkor Nunoo/Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Isaac Newton Tetteh, GNA