I served as Guest Speaker at the 2025 Volta Regional Annual Conference of Presiding Members, held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho, the capital. The conference brought together Presiding Members andd MMDCEs from all 18 districts in the region. This, however, was my first official engagement with all Presiding Members since my election as the Volta Region’s representative to the Council of State.
In my address, I emphasised the need for strong and practical local leadership. I encouraged Presiding Members to work closely with MMDCEs and involve community members in decision-making. I stressed that people in our districts are looking for results: better roads, clean water, jobs, and improved local services; a charge to keep in line with the theme of the conference, “Resetting Local Leadership for National Rebuilding; Advancing Decentralisation, Participation and Sustainable Development.”
In response to their request, I 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. These items are symbols of their authority and responsibility. I also offered to cover the expenses incurred for this particular conference.
I consider it a personal duty to remain committed to supporting local assemblies whenever the need arises. I will continue to represent the region’s interests, advocate for more like ‘Oliver Twist’, and share information that can help improve development at the district level.
I 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.
