The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, has held an engagement with local authorities and stakeholders from three districts in the region to discuss fee fixing, enforcement of assembly by-laws, and strategies to improve transparency in local revenue mobilisation.
The meeting brought together leadership and stakeholders from Amansie West District, Amansie Central District, and Amansie South District.
According to the minister, the open forum was aimed at ensuring that communities are involved in decision-making processes while strengthening compliance with local governance regulations.
Speaking after the meeting, Dr. Amoakohene said district assemblies have been directed to verify relevant certificates, licences and permits of businesses before issuing operational stickers.
He explained that the directive is intended to promote transparency and fairness in the collection of local revenue while ensuring that businesses operate within the framework of the law.
“As part of the process, assemblies are required to request and verify the appropriate documentation of businesses before granting them the operational stickers that allow them to function within the districts,” he stated.
The minister also used the engagement to brief stakeholders on a proposed cooperative mining initiative, which he said is designed to promote responsible mining practices while creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
According to him, the initiative seeks to encourage community participation in mining activities under regulated structures to ensure environmental protection and improved livelihoods.
Dr. Amoakohene emphasised that continuous stakeholder engagement is crucial to strengthening local governance and improving compliance with assembly regulations.
He added that involving communities in discussions on development policies helps build collective ownership and ensures the successful implementation of government initiatives at the local level.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
