Ensure SOCO projects deliver value for money - Northern Regional Minister to MMDCEs
The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, has charged metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives (MMDCEs) to ensure that all projects executed under the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project meet the required standards to ensure value for money.
He said the project was carefully designed to respond to local needs, hence the success of its implementation would largely depend on the commitment of MMDCEs and the active involvement of beneficiary communities.
“It is imperative that the SOCO project is not only understood but also owned by our communities. Only then can it achieve the desired impact of fostering peace, reducing poverty and building resilience,” he added.
Event
Mr John made the call at a two-day orientation workshop for newly appointed MMDCEs on the implementation modules of the SOCO project in Tamale last Wednesday.
The training was designed to equip them with the knowledge, skills and strategies required for the smooth continuation and successful rollout of the project in their respective districts.
The SOCO project is a five-year initiative implemented by the Government of Ghana with funding from the World Bank.
The $150 million SOCO project is aimed at improving economic activities in 48 metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies in six regions in the country.
Beneficiaries of the five-year project are in the Oti, Upper East, Upper West, Northern, North-East and the Savannah regions.
Mr John indicated that the region had already witnessed substantial investments in key sectors that directly impacted the well-being of the people.
He, therefore, lauded all stakeholders for ensuring the successful implementation of the first phase of the project.
Collaboration
A representative of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Bright Atiase, encouraged the MMDCEs to work closely with various stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.
He said: “This project will face its share of challenges, but your strong resolve to overcome them will be the ultimate test of your leadership".
The National Coordinator of the SOCO project, Elizabeth Ohenewah Agyei, highlighted the main components of the project, which include the provision of potable water systems, the construction of schools and health facilities, markets and earth dams.
Beyond bridging the infrastructure gap in the beneficiary areas, she said it would also create sustainable livelihoods, boost economic opportunities and build trust between local populations and government structures.
