Strategic local devt policy out - Document aims to drive sustainable economic growth

The Ministry of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development has introduced a strategic framework designed to promote economic growth and development at the local level.

Known as the Local Economic Development (LED) Policy (2024-2029), accompanied with its implementation plan, the initiative aims to empower local governments, communities and businesses to spearhead development by utilising local resources, generating employment and enhancing livelihoods.

The framework, which was launched in Accra yesterday, emphasises  decentralising economic activities to foster growth as well as encouraging collaboration between public and private sectors to drive investment and innovation in local economies.

The implementation plan also details specific actions, timelines and roles for various stakeholders, ensuring accountability and progress such as mechanisms for monitoring and evaluation.

Empower, support

The Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development, Martin Adjei-Mensah Korsah, who launched the framework, said it would empower the country's 261 metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies (MMDAs) by leveraging local resources and creating jobs.

"This policy launch is a crucial step towards fostering economic growth at the grassroots level,” he said.

“It  perfectly aligns with our goal to empower communities and harness local potential,” the minister said. Mr Korsah stated that the framework had garnered unprecedented support from Cabinet.

“We are grateful to His Excellency the President and his Cabinet for their backing, which has enabled us to unveil this important framework,” he stated.

SDGs

Subsequently, Mr Korsah said the LED policy was designed to address key development goals outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG Eight, which focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

He emphasised that the policy aligned with the achievement of these goals by encouraging development-oriented policies, supporting productive activities and fostering entrepreneurship.

AU Agenda

Additionally, he said the policy aligned with the African Union's Agenda, which aims at optimising the use of African resources for the benefit of all Africans.

"The plan is designed to be actionable, with clear responsibilities for all involved. We have set up mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating progress to ensure that the objectives are met, " the Minister said.

Resources, achievements

“While there are challenges, the 2024 LED Policy and Implementation Plan are crafted to tackle these issues head-on," Mr Korsah stated, adding, "Our goal is to create a conducive environment for local business growth and job creation."

Among the achievements the minister highlighted were the training of 3,000 officers in local economic development and the successful implementation of various projects, such as the Ghana Productive Safety Net and the Gulf of Guinea Motor Region Social Cooperation Project.

"By the end of this policy cycle, we anticipate increased employment opportunities, income generation and poverty reduction," he stated.

"The Ministry will work to disseminate the policy widely and engage stakeholders to catalyse actions and innovation," Mr Korsah stressed.

Support

Speaking on how to foster and sustain economic development at the local level, the Head of Industrial Art and Craft, Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Nelly Joana Spio-Abaidoo, said her outfit would support local businesses by facilitating their entry into international markets through training on export practices, quality standards and information on market trends.

"This assistance will help local enterprises to expand their reach, boost revenue and generate employment, aligning with the policy's goals of fostering productive activities and entrepreneurship," she said.

Network

Additionally, Ms Spio-Abaidoo said activities such as trade fairs would enable local enterprises to showcase their products globally and build networks.

GEPA’s Head of Industrial Art and Craft added that crafting targeted economic strategies to support local industries and infrastructure improvements were necessary for efficient export activities which would grow local economies.