The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs has released GHC23.6 million (approx. $1.7 million) in allowances to over 9,000 Assembly Members across the country, as part of the government’s push to strengthen grassroots governance and oversight of public projects.
The disbursement, covering the months of April and May, grants each Assembly Member GHC1,300 ($85) per month, Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim announced at a press briefing Monday. A total of 9,085 officials are receiving payments.
“This initiative is in line with President John Mahama’s commitment to provide Assembly Members with the financial resources and logistical support necessary to monitor and support local development programs,” Mr. Ibrahim said.
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The move marks a step in fulfilling a GHC100 million ($7.1 million) budgetary allocation earmarked in 2025 for operational support to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). The Ministry of Finance released the first tranche — GHC25 million — on June 18, with nearly the full amount now directed toward Assembly Member compensation.
Local governance in Ghana has long faced challenges stemming from recentralized funding and limited logistical support at the district level. Mr. Ibrahim acknowledged these constraints and reiterated the government’s intent to enhance efficiency and accountability through more timely disbursements.
“As of today, July 14, the Ministry has transferred GHC23.6 million to cover Assembly Member allowances,” he said. “We remain committed to strengthening the MMDAs and improving service delivery at the local level.”
The payments are seen as part of the administration’s broader decentralization agenda, aimed at empowering local authorities to play a more active role in overseeing government initiatives and responding to community needs.
