In line with the Local Government Act 2016, (Act 936), the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has formally inaugurated the Sixth Local Government Service Council, with a call on council members to drive transformation in local governance and public service delivery.
In his inaugural address on Tuesday, 15th July, 2025 at the Ministry's conference room, the sector Minister, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, noted that the inauguration of the Council was a reaffirmation of the President’s commitment to revitalizing local governance system to deliver results and promote inclusion.
He indicated that the Local Government Service is the frontline of development, as it always deals with the people at the grassroot and are thus able to transmit feedback to shape policy development that reflect the aspirations of citizens.
In congratulating the members on their appointment, Hon. Ibrahim expressed government's confidence in their capacity to elevate the Local Government Service to greater heights. The Council is chaired by Ambassador Akua Sena Dansua (a former M.P, Minister, and Ambassador).
The Minister reminded them of their statutory mandate as stated in the Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936), to ensure the effective administration of the decentralized local government system and charged them to promote professionalism, accountability, and measurable performance across the service, noting that a responsive and well-trained workforce is key to modernizing local government.
While recognizing the high expectations despite the increasing complexities in the local governance system, the Minister called for integrity, strategic collaboration, and openness in the execution of their duty as the Sixth Local Government Service Council. He encouraged the Council to forge strong partnerships with institutions and development partners, stressing that a united front will make local government a true engine for national transformation.
Hon. Ibrahim further urged the Council to build on the legacy of their predecessors but exceed it in innovation and impact. He pledged the Ministry’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with the Council to address challenges and strengthen service delivery.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, the Chairperson, Amb. Akua Sena Dansua, acknowledged the challenges involved in the system, but assured President John Dramani Mahama that the Council will provide the requisite support, guidance and advice to drive the decentralisation mandate and make Ghanaians proud.
She was of the view that the Council's job is daunting, however, with the experience , expertise as well as the rich and diverse background of the council members, they will work assiduously to make the appointing authority proud, and Ghanaians happy.
The Sixth Service Council , also includes the following as members; Audrey Smock Amosa PhD (National Development Planning Commission), Prof Nicholas Awortwi (Institute of Local Government Studies), Inusah Shirazu (Ministry of Education), Koku Awoonor -Williams (MD, PhD, Ministry of Health). Other members are: Prof. Lord Mensah (Office of Head of Local Government Service), Michael Harry Yamson (District Assembly Common Fund), Amin Abdul -Rahaman (Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs), Alfred Askedy Adjei (National Association of Local Authorities of Ghana), Mahmood Shakil Kpedau (Local Government Workers' Union) and Buipewura Mahama Abdulai Jinapor II ()National House of Chiefs.
The rest are Christopher Kwaku Dapaah, Richard Fiadomor PhD, Nubyl Kakra Vanlare and Mary Ampong.
Source: Chantal Aidoo
Public Relations Unit, MLGCRA