The Minister for Local Government, Decentralisation and Religious Affairs, who also serves as Member of Parliament for the Banda Constituency in the Bono Region, Ahmed Ibrahim, has reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to deepening collaboration with traditional authorities following a high-profile meeting with the Western Regional House of Chiefs.
The delegation, led by Nana Kobina Nketsia V, President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, and including Awulae Attibrukusu III, Paramount Chief of Axim, as well as several queen mothers, paid a courtesy call on the minister to discuss issues affecting the chieftaincy institution and its role in national development.
During the engagement, the delegation commended the Ministry for its dedication to upholding the integrity of traditional leadership despite the pressures of a demanding national agenda.
A central point of discussion was the upcoming Time for Africa cultural initiative set to take place in Europe.
The event aims to showcase Ghana’s rich cultural heritage particularly from the Western Region to a global audience.
The minister pledged full government support for the initiative, including assistance with visa processing for participating chiefs and queen mothers.
Addressing ongoing chieftaincy disputes and concerns over limited representation at the National House of Chiefs, the minister acknowledged the challenges and emphasized the government’s resolve to implement inclusive engagement and effective conflict resolution strategies.
The Banda MP also briefed the delegation on his recent consultations with President John Dramani Mahama regarding the appointment and orientation of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between these officials and traditional and religious leaders.
While recognizing delays in some ministerial engagements due to the ongoing process of government formation including the vetting of appointees and Council of State nominations Ahmed Ibrahim assured the chiefs that within six weeks, a clearer roadmap would be rolled out to enhance outreach to all Regional Houses of Chiefs.
An apology was formally extended to Nana Kobina Nketsia V and his team for a delayed response to an earlier letter. The minister reassured the delegation that their concerns are receiving due attention.
Financial matters also featured prominently in the discussions. The delegation raised the issue of unpaid and insufficient allowances for chiefs.
In response, the minister noted that while the 2025 national budget had been passed, disbursement processes were still ongoing. He affirmed President John Dramani Mahama commitment to increasing the allowances, with an annual increment policy currently under review.
Queen mothers present at the meeting highlighted their financial constraints and the heavy social responsibilities they bear.
The minister pledged collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to explore sustainable support mechanisms.
The meeting concluded with mutual expressions of appreciation and a shared commitment to strengthening traditional governance as a key pillar of national identity and development.
Source : www.kumasimail.com
