Central Regional Minister Pledges Prudent Use of Common Fund, Targets Clean and Developed Region

Central Regional Minister, Hon Ekow Panyin Okyere Eduamoah, has pledged to ensure prudent management of the region’s share of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) to drive sustainable development and improve living standards.

The Minister made the commitment when he appeared before the Local Government and Rural Development Committee of Parliament, alongside Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), to respond to concerns raised in the annual internal audit reports of the assemblies.

Committee Chairperson Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr had earlier expressed worry that some assemblies had allowed significant sums to remain unspent, leaving vital projects undone.

Reacting to the concerns, Mr. Eduamoah stressed that transparency and strict compliance with guidelines were essential to avoid financial irregularities.

“As a Minister, you must ensure that the right thing is done. Infractions are what undermine progress. If we close those gaps, we can execute projects effectively,” he told the Parliamentary Press Corps in a sideline interview.

He revealed that the Central Region had already received ₵10 million from just two tranches of the Common Fund and emphasized the need for vigilance in its use.

On delays in disbursement, he explained that statutory procedures accounted for idle balances in district accounts.

“Assemblies must meet, subcommittees have to sit, and due diligence must be carried out before disbursement. It is not about rushing to spend money simply because it is available. That in itself would constitute an infraction,” he clarified.

Mr. Eduamoah assured that while such processes may take time, they were necessary to guarantee accountability and long-term value for the region.

Tackling Sanitation and Leaving a Legacy

The Minister also announced his determination to make sanitation a priority, pledging to transform the Central Region into one of the cleanest in Ghana.

“Sanitation has become a moral issue—about whether people know what is right or wrong. My goal is to lay a foundation for a cleaner, healthier Central Region,” he said.

He added that his legacy would focus on youth empowerment, skills development, and the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).

“It may not be a big legacy, but it must be an indelible mark—that someone was here and left the Central Region cleaner, galamsey-free, and equipped with a skilled youth ready for the future,” he stated.

Economic Significance of the Region

The Central Region is one of Ghana’s most diverse economies, with services leading the sector, followed by mining, fishing, and agriculture. It also serves as a major educational hub, home to renowned schools and universities. In addition, the region’s tourism industry thrives on historic landmarks such as Cape Coast and Elmina Castles, as well as natural attractions like Kakum National Park, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

Source: Felix Nyaaba/expressnewsghana.com