The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Germany
A delegation from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, led by Franziska Jebens, Head of Cooperation, paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, on Monday, March 10, 2025.
The meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ghana and Germany, particularly in the area of local governance and decentralization.
It also provided an opportunity for both parties to assess areas where German support is most needed and where Ghana can take independent initiatives.
Speaking on behalf of the ambassador, Franziska Jebens emphasized Germany’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s local governance and development efforts.
“We want to understand where our support is most needed and also identify areas where Ghana is already making significant progress on its own,” she stated.
Franziska Jebens reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing partnership with Ghana, stating that their development cooperation focuses on key areas.
“We anticipate that, with our support, Ghana’s Local Government Ministry will successfully achieve its goals of improving local conditions for citizens. This will ensure the effective and efficient implementation of basic infrastructure and services,” Jebens stated.
During the discussions, Ahmed Ibrahim highlighted the importance of decentralization in national development, noting that the process had encountered challenges, particularly regarding the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
He stressed the need for effective utilization of the DACF to ensure its maximum impact on local development, stating that President John Dramani Mahama is spearheading initiatives to enhance decentralization by consolidating development authorities under the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA).
The minister further revealed that the President had committed to allocating approximately 80% of the DACF directly to the districts to empower local authorities in addressing the specific needs of their communities.
“If we are able to implement these plans effectively, Ghana will experience a significant transformation,” he said.
Minister Ibrahim expressed appreciation for Germany’s continued support in improving local governance and infrastructure development.
He noted that the Ghana-Germany partnership has already yielded significant benefits, and that the government remains committed to implementing reforms that will drive sustainable development at the district level.
AM/KA
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