President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening local governance and empowering traditional authorities, describing their role as “indispensable” to Ghana’s sustainable development agenda.
Speaking at a durbar of chiefs and people in the Oti Region during his final “Thank You Tour” stop, the President emphasized that his administration is prioritizing collaboration between state institutions and traditional leadership.
“Our government recognizes that sustainable development must be rooted in strong local governance and traditional leadership systems,” President Mahama said.
“That is why one of our first acts was to merge the Ministry of Local Government with the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs—to foster greater collaboration, inclusivity, and efficiency.”
The President hailed the contribution of traditional leaders, or Nananom, in preserving Ghana’s cultural heritage, maintaining peace, and advancing development at the grassroots level.
“Your role in safeguarding our cultural heritage, maintaining peace, and advancing development at the grassroots is indispensable,” he stated.
“In line with our manifesto commitments, we will strengthen traditional governance structures, improve capacity, and involve you meaningfully in our national decision-making processes.”
Mahama assured traditional authorities that the new approach would not only enhance their relevance in modern governance but also ensure they are central to national development strategies, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The initiative forms part of President Mahama’s broader agenda to deepen decentralization, empower local communities, and align Ghana’s traditional governance systems with contemporary development goals.
