The Korle Klottey Municipal Assembly (KoKMA) in Ghana is looking to form global partnerships to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in local governance. This initiative aims to help municipalities share knowledge, mobilize investment, and develop practical solutions to urban challenges. According to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of KoKMA, Mr. Alfred Allotey-Gaisie, such partnerships are crucial for building institutional capacity and addressing urban challenges effectively.
Mr. Allotey-Gaisie recently participated in an international policy exchange forum in Seoul, South Korea, where city leaders discussed the use of AI in urban governance, public service delivery, and sustainable urban management. The forum's theme, "AI: Opening the City's Next Chapter," highlighted the potential of AI in transforming urban environments. KoKMA's participation in the forum has sparked its interest in adopting similar strategies in Ghana.
KoKMA is committed to building a smart, inclusive, and investor-friendly municipality through innovation, digital transformation, and responsible leadership. The Assembly's Digital Revenue Mobilisation Strategy is a prime example of how technology can improve local governance and service delivery. This strategy involves digitally mapping properties and businesses, as well as introducing digital payment tools to enhance revenue collection.
The digital transformation in KoKMA is not just about adopting technology, but also about using it to improve public trust, strengthen accountability, and provide better services to residents. The MCE emphasized the need for digital inclusion, ensuring that residents without smartphones or reliable internet access are not left behind. To address this, KoKMA plans to provide multilingual support and assisted digital access to promote inclusivity.
Looking ahead, KoKMA is exploring further applications of AI, data analytics, and other emerging technologies to support urban planning, revenue management, and sustainable development. The Assembly is keen on establishing partnerships with cities, governments, businesses, and development institutions to promote knowledge exchange and co-create solutions to urban challenges.
KoKMA has extended an invitation to cities and municipalities worldwide to establish lasting sister-city partnerships, fostering friendship, innovation, and knowledge exchange. The MCE described KoKMA as a potential living laboratory for responsible AI and digital public-service management in Africa. The municipality is prepared to learn from other cities and work with partners to build a smarter and more responsive urban environment.
In conclusion, KoKMA's efforts to leverage AI in local governance have the potential to transform the municipality into a model for sustainable urban development in Africa. With its commitment to digital transformation, inclusivity, and partnerships, KoKMA is poised to create a smarter and more responsive urban environment for its residents.
Key points
- KoKMA seeks global partnerships to accelerate AI use in local governance.
- The Assembly aims to build a smart, inclusive, and investor-friendly municipality through innovation and digital transformation.
- KoKMA invites cities and municipalities to establish sister-city partnerships to foster knowledge exchange and innovation.
