The Minister of Local Government states that unclear internal boundaries are causing disputes across different levels of governance in Ghana. Key institutions lack capacity to manage these boundaries effectively, and he advocates for internal solutions rather than relying on external funding. Collaboration with communities is essential to resolve boundary issues and promote local economic growth.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, highlights that the ambiguity of internal boundaries is fueling disputes among traditional, district, region, and constituency levels. He emphasizes that constituencies were created without adequate consideration of the capabilities of key organizations such as the Statistical Service, Electoral Commission, and Lands Commission, impairing boundary management and leading to disputes.
During a meeting with the Ghana Boundary Commission (GBC) in Accra, Mr. Ibrahim discussed the importance of boundary delineation, stating that insufficient management could compromise accurate representation and resource management. He called for focused efforts to rectify these issues, particularly emphasizing the need for sustainable, internal solutions instead of relying on external funding from organizations like ECOWAS.
The Minister expressed the importance of promoting local economic activities along boundaries and urged the Committee on Local Governments and the Independent Constitutional Body Committee to integrate boundary management into the District Assemblies Common Fund’s approval process.
Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the GBC’s Commissioner General, noted that many boundary pillars have been displaced due to natural events like erosion. He advocates for the reaffirmation of international boundaries, which would involve validating coordinate agreements with neighboring countries and constructing new boundary markers.
Kotia also emphasizes collaboration with affected districts to resolve boundary disputes, particularly noting the need for improved local economic development. Enhanced collaboration aims to improve livelihoods by addressing agricultural demands and revitalizing communities, thus fostering sustainable economic growth and well-being for these areas.
In conclusion, lack of clear internal boundaries has led to numerous disputes across various administrative levels in Ghana. Minister Ahmed Ibrahim stresses the need for proactive internal management solutions, while Major General Kotia highlights the importance of reaffirming boundary marks and fostering collaboration. Efforts to integrate boundary management into local governance are crucial for enhancing economic development and community well-being.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
