The government of Ghana has disclosed that a total of GH¢213 million has been released in consolidated monthly allowances to Assembly Members for 2025 and 2026. This revelation was made by the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga. According to him, the payments aim to strengthen local governance and support elected Assembly Members in performing their responsibilities.
The Minister outlined that his Ministry facilitated the release and disbursement of four tranches totalling GH¢107 million in 2025. Additionally, a further GH¢106 million was disbursed for 2026, culminating in a total of GH¢213 million for the two years. Hon. Ayariga emphasized that these payments signify a significant intervention in support of local governance and decentralisation.
The funding is part of broader efforts by the government to empower local-level actors and strengthen Ghana’s decentralised governance system. The Minister also mentioned other measures being implemented to deepen decentralisation, including increased transfers of the District Assemblies Common Fund to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
For the District Assemblies Common Fund, the government facilitated the transfer of GH¢9.1 billion, representing six quarters of DACF, to the assemblies. This fund is intended for socio-economic infrastructure development and improving living conditions within the communities.
According to Hon. Ayariga, the government remains committed to ensuring that local authorities have the necessary resources to perform their functions effectively. This includes delivering development projects within their communities. The payments to Assembly Members come as part of the government's efforts to strengthen local governance.
These initiatives also aim to deepen citizen participation in decision-making at the district level. By providing Assembly Members with adequate resources, the government seeks to enhance local-level governance and promote community development.
Overall, the government's release of GH¢213 million in allowances demonstrates its commitment to supporting local governance and decentralisation in Ghana. The Minister's disclosure highlights the efforts being made to empower local authorities and promote socio-economic development.
Key points
- The Ghanaian government has released GH¢213 million in consolidated monthly allowances to Assembly Members for 2025 and 2026.
- The payments aim to strengthen local governance and support elected Assembly Members in performing their responsibilities.
- The government has also transferred GH¢9.1 billion of the District Assemblies Common Fund to MMDAs for socio-economic infrastructure development.
