In a collaborative effort to address operational challenges and optimize opportunities for the AAYALOLO Buses under the Greater Accra Transport Executives (GHAPTE), Hon. Daniel Botwe, Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development, engaged in a consultation meeting with GHAPTE leadership.

The meeting centered on a comprehensive report outlining challenges and opportunities for AAYALOLO Buses. Discussions focused on strategies to enhance efficiency and productivity, including plans for the grounded fleet and considerations for expanding the bus fleet.

The outcome emphasized a consensus on actionable steps to improve AAYALOLO services, with a commitment to citizen service enhancement. Hon. Daniel Botwe expressed appreciation for collaboration and outlined next steps, including prompt implementation of agreed-upon measures, regular follow-up meetings, and sustained collaboration for ongoing improvements.

The meeting concluded with a shared dedication to overcoming challenges and providing citizens with reliable public transportation services. The Ministry and GHAPTE affirmed their commitment to continuous collaboration and improvement.

In the aftermath of the Budget Hearing on November 15, 2023, the Hon. Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development engaged in crucial discussions with the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to address challenges surrounding Property Rate revenue collection. The decision to revert this responsibility back to the Assemblies prompted a meeting focused on identifying issues and formulating solutions.

The Hon. Minister directed the establishment of a specialized committee. This committee is mandated to assess the current interim arrangement critically. Its objective is to propose a strategic way forward, emphasizing steps to enhance the efficiency of property rate collection.

The meeting conducted a thorough analysis of previous property rate collection efforts by GRA. This involved a detailed examination of challenges faced, an understanding of the collection process, and identification of areas for improvement.

Upon formation, the committee will be tasked with proposing strategies to address identified issues and outlining steps to streamline and improve the interim property rate collection process.

The committee will promptly initiate its assessment, with findings to be presented to the Ministry. Recommendations for improvements and a revised plan for property rate collection will be developed.

The meeting underscored the need for a comprehensive assessment of the current interim arrangement for Property Rate revenue collection. The establishment of a committee signals a commitment to proactively address issues and ensure an efficient and effective property rate collection process. This collaborative effort between the Ministry and GRA aims to enhance revenue generation for the Assemblies, contributing significantly to the overall decentralization and rural development agenda.

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralization, and Rural Development (MLGDRD) recently organized a one-day orientation focusing on critical aspects of local governance and service delivery. The primary objective was to equip National Service Personnel with essential knowledge to actively contribute to human resource capacity building for enhanced efficiency.

Amin Abdul-Rahaman, Chief Director, set the tone by emphasizing the importance of respect, a willingness to learn, and a serious commitment to duty in his opening address.

Insights into Human Resource Management (HRM) functions, covering recruitment, training, performance management, compensation, and employee relations were provided by the Human Resource Directorate

Policy, planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation, and their role in efficient resource utilization and policy implementation was explored.

Specialized units outlined their functions, with emphasis on communication and stakeholder relations from the Public Relations Unit, effective internal controls from the Internal Audit and a commitment to excellent service from Client Service Unit.

The significance of ethics and a code of conduct in the civil service was highlighted, ensuring integrity and professionalism, with a reminder of principles such as honesty, confidentiality, fairness, and transparency.

This orientation not only provided National Service Personnel with valuable insights into local governance and decentralisation mandate but also showcased the diverse functions of specialized units within the ministry. Looking ahead, the ministry is dedicated to further engaging and empowering personnel for enhanced efficiency during their service period.