Review Decentralisation to Improve Service Delivery
By Maame Efua Kwaduah
Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, Chief of Sefwi-Boinzan and Kontihene of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Area in the Western North Region, has called for a comprehensive review of Ghana’s decentralisation policy.
He cautioned that the current system is affecting efficient service delivery and coordination.
He made the call when a team from the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), led by its Chairman Dr. Nii Moi Thompson and Director-General Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, paid a courtesy call on him after a stakeholder engagement in the region.
The chief expressed worry that the distribution of decentralised government agencies across several districts, many of which are located far from regional capitals, is weakening coordination and reducing efficiency.
He mentioned the location of some key institutions, including health facilities in Bodi and other districts, as examples of how the decentralisation system is creating operational difficulties.
“In my personal opinion, the decentralisation of some agencies within the regions is becoming a challenge rather than a solution,” he stated, warning that excessive decentralisation could undermine effective governance instead of improving it.
He therefore called for a more balanced system that promotes local participation while strengthening coordination at the regional level to ensure accountability and the effective implementation of development programmes.
Nana Ofori Ahenkan II further noted that poor coordination is slowing down development in the region, highlighting key needs such as a regional hospital, a university, better road networks, and the expansion of agribusiness, particularly oil palm production.
He warned that without improved coordination, such projects could face delays and duplication of efforts.
His concerns were supported by Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, who stressed the importance of alignment in planning and implementation.
She explained that effective development depends on strong collaboration across districts and regions to ensure that policies produce measurable results.
“We must ensure that our planning processes are properly coordinated and results-driven,” she said, adding that fragmented systems can reduce the impact of development programmes.
Joseph K. Baah-Darkoh, Chief Director of the Western North Regional Coordinating Council, emphasised the need to align national development frameworks with the needs of local communities.
He said long-term national plans and development strategies will only be successful if they reflect realities at the grassroots level.
Despite its natural resources and fertile land, the Western North Region continues to face infrastructure challenges, limited access to quality healthcare and education, and the need to diversify its economy.
The engagement formed part of preparations towards Ghana’s Consolidated Development Plan, where stakeholders are expected to contribute to building a more inclusive and well-coordinated national development agenda.
