BREAKING: 1,587 Common Fund projects traced do not exist – Administrator reveals
The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Michael Harry Yamson, has revealed that 1,587 of the 4,767 projects tracked under the fund nationwide have been identified as non-existent.
He said the findings highlighted shortcomings in transparency and accountability in the management of the Common Fund, stressing that every cedi allocated for development should result in projects that are visible and verifiable.
Mr Yamson made these remarks at the opening of a meeting with Municipal and District Chief Executives (MDCEs) from the Volta Region at Dzolo-Kpuita in the Ho West District last Thursday.
He noted that new measures had been introduced to improve transparency and accountability in the use of the Common Fund. According to him, the reforms are intended to ensure that the fund promotes equitable development, safeguards livelihoods, stimulates economic growth and strengthens decentralised governance.
He also called on Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to step up efforts to increase Internally Generated Funds (IGF) in order to expand their revenue base and reduce dependence on central government transfers.
Although 80 per cent of the DACF allocations had already been released, Mr Yamson said assemblies should complement those funds with stronger IGF mobilisation to improve service delivery and fast-track development.
“We can no longer rely solely on central government transfers. Every available resource must be maximised, including through the effective use of technology,” he said.
The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, urged the assemblies to use the Common Fund prudently and creatively to promote local economic development.
He observed that with 80 per cent of the Common Fund already disbursed, there was no reason for delays in implementing development projects.
Mr Gunu further encouraged the assemblies to adopt innovative strategies to generate employment and strengthen local economies. He also advised them to partner with non-governmental organisations to attract additional resources for development initiatives.
The Ho West District Chief Executive, Professor Francis Duse, said the increased release of the Common Fund would facilitate the implementation of critical infrastructure projects, enhance educational development and support inclusive programmes for persons with disabilities.
He added that Ho West possesses significant agricultural and tourism potential, which, if effectively developed, could drive the district’s socio-economic growth.
The meeting also focused on key issues, including Common Fund allocations and strategies to improve local governance and development.
