SEFWI WIAWSO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY HOLDS TOWN HALL MEETING TO PROMOTE PARTICIPATORY GOVERNANCE

The Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly on 24th March 2023 held a town hall meeting aimed at deepening democratic governance and ensuring greater stakeholder engagement in local development.

The event, held in line with government policy, was opened by the Municipal Chief Executive, Hon. Louis Owusu-Agyepong, who welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of such gatherings in promoting transparency and accountability. He noted that town hall meetings are a crucial platform for citizens to understand their roles and responsibilities in local governance, as well as the Assembly’s efforts in implementing development initiatives.

In attendance were key dignitaries including:

• Hon. Louis Owusu-Agyepong – Municipal Chief Executive

• Hon. Martha Awuah – Presiding Member

• Mr. Ernest Tayi Yankson – Representative of the Western North Coordinating Council

• Madam Matilda Nkansah Baidoo – Representative of GIZ, co-sponsors of the programme

• Mr. Joseph K. Baah-Darkoh – Municipal Coordinating Director

Several stakeholder groups also participated, such as:

• The clergy (both Christian and Muslim leaders)

• Assembly members

• Heads of departments and officials from various governmental agencies

• Persons with disabilities (PWDs)

• Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU)

• Teachers and students

• Media personnel

The highlight of the meeting was a detailed presentation delivered by Mr. Louis Aggrey, the Development Planning Officer, and projected on a giant screen. The one-hour-twenty-minute presentation showcased images of completed and ongoing projects and covered four main areas:

• Objectives of the presentation

• Background to planning

• Legislative framework for planning and implementation

• Development outlook for 2023

Hon. Martha Awuah, addressing the gathering, assured participants that all suggestions and concerns raised during the meeting were duly recorded and would be given the appropriate attention. She further encouraged anyone who was unable to ask questions during the session or needed more information to approach Assembly staff after the programme or visit the Assembly offices.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with attendees commending the Assembly for its transparency and commitment to inclusive governance.