President John Dramani Mahama has announced that all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across Ghana will each receive a minimum of GH₵25 million this year to support local development initiatives.
Speaking at an orientation and training programme for MMDCEs in Accra on Wednesday, July 18, President Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to deepening decentralisation and empowering local authorities to lead transformative development at the grassroots.
“This year, every assembly — whether large or small — will receive not less than GH₵25 million,” he assured, adding that the investment is part of a broader strategy to equip local governments with the resources needed to meet the unique needs of their communities.
The President explained that the allocation is a direct fulfilment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 manifesto, which prioritises decentralised governance and places local authorities at the forefront of the national development agenda.
“Our manifesto outlines a bold, people-first vision that places local government at the heart of Ghana’s progress. You are the frontline of the economy,” President Mahama told the MMDCEs.
He further revealed that the 2025 national budget reflects this vision, with 80% of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) earmarked for direct disbursement to MMDAs. He urged local authorities to take full ownership of flagship government initiatives such as the Clean Up Ghana Campaign, Adumawura, Mahama Cares, the National Apprenticeship Programme, and Feed Ghana.
“These are not just policy statements. They are real programmes that must be implemented at your level with seriousness and leadership,” he stressed.
President Mahama called on district leaders to apply the funds judiciously, ensuring that spending aligns with their respective medium-term development plans and directly addresses the pressing needs of their communities.
“These resources must translate into real improvements in the lives of our people. Let your plans and actions be guided by their needs,” he concluded.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem