The meetings, held on October 22 and 23, respectively, formed part of efforts to promote transparency, accountability and citizen participation in local governance.

The engagements provided a platform for the Assembly to brief residents on completed and ongoing projects, proposed development interventions and plans to address the district’s priority needs in the coming year.

Addressing participants, Mr. Katamani outlined interventions across key sectors, including education, health, roads, agriculture and infrastructure. He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to improving living standards and advancing development across the district.

He explained that the meetings were intended to keep residents informed about the Assembly’s activities and provide them with an opportunity to contribute to discussions on development priorities for 2027.

Mr. Katamani identified the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) as a major source of funding for development projects, claiming that allocations under the administration of President John Dramani Mahama had exceeded those received under previous governments.

He emphasised the need for prudent and effective utilisation of available resources to achieve tangible development outcomes and improve residents’ welfare.

In addition to the Common Fund, he identified Internally Generated Funds (IGF) and support from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as other sources of revenue and assistance for the Assembly.

He said the Assembly would continue to explore opportunities to mobilise additional resources to meet the district’s growing development needs.

Mr. Katamani further noted that the town hall meetings provided an opportunity for the Assembly to account for public funds received and expended, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and responsible financial management.

The meetings brought together traditional and religious leaders, residents and other stakeholders to deliberate on development priorities, resource mobilisation and the effective delivery of public services.

Togbui Nyamekor Glakpe V, Paramount Chief and President of the Ave Dakpa Traditional Council, welcomed the initiative and called for the meetings to become a regular feature of engagement between the Assembly and residents.

He urged the Assembly to intensify efforts to mobilise internal revenue to finance development projects and reduce its dependence on external sources of funding.

The town hall meetings form part of the Assembly’s efforts to deepen participatory governance by providing residents with information on public expenditure and creating opportunities for them to influence development planning.

The engagements are expected to strengthen public confidence in the Assembly, encourage greater citizen involvement and ensure that development plans for the 2027 fiscal year reflect the needs and aspirations of the people of Akatsi North.