Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, joined the diplomatic community at the Pakistan House in Abelenkpe to celebrate Pakistan's National Day. The event, which marked the anniversary of the Lahore Resolution’s adoption in 1940, commemorated the formation of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

In his speech, Hon.  Ibrahim conveyed warm congratulations from the government and people of Ghana to Pakistan, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two nations. Over the last six decades, Ghana and Pakistan have cultivated a partnership founded on mutual respect, shared values, and a strong commitment to international cooperation.

The Minister reflected on the growth of bilateral relations, especially in trade, education, culture, and diplomacy. He lauded Pakistan’s “Engage Africa Initiative,” which has further deepened engagement with the African continent. One notable milestone he pointed to was Pakistan’s reopening of its High Commission in Accra in June 2022, a move that has significantly strengthened bilateral relations and enabled Ghana and Pakistan to advance their national interests.

“Ghana and Pakistan have witnessed significant strides in economic collaboration, with bilateral trade showing promising growth,” Hon.  Ibrahim remarked. The formation of the Joint Business Council between the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) in 2023 exemplifies the shared commitment to enhancing trade, investment, and business exchange between the two countries.

The Minister also emphasized Pakistan's contributions to Ghana’s capacity-building initiatives. Ghanaian leaders have benefited from various training programs in fields such as defense, diplomacy, and technical sectors. These initiatives have played an instrumental role in fostering professional relationships and enhancing institutional development.

The speech also acknowledged the positive influence of the Pakistani community in Ghana, whose contributions span various sectors including engineering, banking, healthcare, and information technology. Their philanthropic efforts, particularly during Ramadan, were recognized for their deep impact on Ghanaian society.

Hon. Ibrahim reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to promoting peace, prosperity, and cooperation with Pakistan. He expressed optimism for the future of the Ghana-Pakistan relationship, confident that ongoing dialogue, increased trade, and strengthened partnerships would yield even greater collaboration for the mutual benefit of both nations.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

Parliament has approved a GH¢4 billion budget for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs to fund key programs and projects in the 2025 fiscal year. The approval includes provisions for assembly members’ allowances, support for traditional authorities, and initiatives aimed at fostering national unity through religious and community development.

The allocated funds will be used to pay allowances for assembly members and traditional leaders, as well as to support various ongoing and new programs within the Ministry. Among the key initiatives is the proposed establishment of a National Prayer Day, a significant step toward enhancing religious cohesion and promoting social unity across the country.

During his address to Parliament, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Agbodza, who is also the Member of Parliament for Adaklu, highlighted that the government plans to integrate assembly members' remuneration into the Common Fund formula. This initiative is under review to ensure equitable distribution and proper compensation for local governance bodies.

This budget reflects the government's ongoing commitment to improving local governance, empowering traditional institutions, and promoting religious harmony in Ghana.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)

In an engagement with Editors, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, called for the media's active support in re-introducing the National Sanitation Day, a national initiative aimed at tackling Ghana’s pressing sanitation challenges.

The meeting, held to discuss the upcoming re-launch of the initiative, brought together key editors from Ghana's leading media outlets to understand the importance of the campaign and mobilize widespread public involvement. Hon.  Ibrahim emphasized that environmental sanitation, including waste disposal, littering, and related health issues such as cholera and malaria, remains a significant challenge for the nation.

“Today, we stand at a critical juncture where we must renew our collective commitment to keeping our environment clean. The re-introduction of National Sanitation Day is a significant step in promoting hygiene, waste management, and community participation," said Hon.  Ibrahim.

He outlined that, although the initiative was originally introduced in 2014, the government, is now revitalizing the National Sanitation Day as part of the broader "Clean Up Ghana" agenda. This, he said, would not only improve public health but also reduce the economic burden posed by sanitation-related diseases.

The National Sanitation Day will take place on the first Saturday of every month across all regions and districts in the country. The Minister highlighted that the day would feature a nationwide clean-up exercise, including cleaning public spaces like streets, markets, and drains. In addition, public education on waste management and hygiene would play a central role.

During the forum, Hon.  Ibrahim also emphasized the need for collaboration with various stakeholders, including traditional authorities, religious leaders, private sector actors, and environmental NGOs. He pointed out that the media plays an essential role in raising awareness, informing the public, and ensuring that people take action on the designated clean-up days.

"The media is a critical partner in this initiative. Your reach, influence, and capacity to engage communities are invaluable. We need your help to spread the word, encourage participation, and make National Sanitation Day a success," he stated.

The Minister announced that the official launch of the National Sanitation Day will take place on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, with the first nationwide clean-up exercise scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025. He urged editors to allocate slots on their programs to further promote the initiative, ensuring maximum participation from the public.

Hon.  Ibrahim concluded his address by emphasizing the shared responsibility of keeping Ghana clean. "This is not just the government's responsibility; it is a collective duty. Cleanliness affects our health, our economy, and the reputation of our country. I ask all of you, as media leaders, to help us lead this charge," he said.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann/Stephanie Edem Klutsey

(Public Relations Unit MLGDRD)