The newly appointed Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo has pledged to spearhead a comprehensive transformation agenda aimed at enhancing governance, sanitation, security, and economic development in the capital region.
Assuming office with a bold vision, she has assured residents of a renewed focus on making Greater Accra a cleaner, safer, and more prosperous region for all.
In her inaugural address, the minister expressed deep gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for entrusting him with the responsibility and reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the government’s vision of resetting the nation.
Hon. Linda Ocloo outlined key priority areas, emphasising local governance, sanitation, security, and economic empowerment as the foundation of his administration.
The minister underscored the importance of decentralisation and participatory governance, stating that he would work closely with traditional authorities, religious organisations, and other stakeholders.
She announced plans to strengthen Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) by improving revenue generation and reinforcing sub-district structures such as zonal and area councils.
To ensure effective oversight, the minister committed to quarterly monitoring exercises and technical support for MMDAs, aligning with the Local Governance Act, 2026 (Act 936).
A major pillar of her agenda is the implementation of a comprehensive sanitation and waste management policy under the NDC’s “Clean Up Ghana” initiative. The minister stressed that a cleaner Greater Accra would require both policy enforcement and active citizen participation.
Key measures include:
- Encouraging waste segregation by providing garbage bags and bins in public places and homes.
- Strengthening the capacities of sanitation and waste management departments within MMDAs.
- Holding MMDCEs accountable for sanitation performance as a key performance indicator.
- Reintroducing the National Sanitation Day and launching a Cleanest City Award to promote competitive and responsible environmental practices.
- Establishing a Regional Sanitation Day on the last Friday of every month.
“We will not allow filth to take over our streets,” she declared, urging residents to actively participate in the region’s cleanliness efforts.
As Chairperson of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), the Minister vowed to collaborate closely with security agencies to maintain peace and order. He outlined plans to:
- Improve street lighting across the region to enhance visibility and deter crime.
- Strictly enforce pedestrian safety laws, including the use of footbridges to reduce road accidents.
- Strengthen intelligence gathering and law enforcement operations.
“Our streets must be safe, our communities must be secure, and our businesses must thrive in an atmosphere of peace,” he assured.
The minister emphasised the need for local economic development, pledging to work with MMDAs to support entrepreneurship, especially among women. She highlighted plans to:
- Partner with the Women’s Bank to provide financial support for female entrepreneurs.
- Facilitate trade fairs in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Ghana Tourism Authority, Ministry of Trade, and the Ghana Enterprise Agency to boost investment and business growth.
“This region must be the heartbeat of Ghana’s economic revival,” she asserted, urging the private sector and development partners to join forces in creating sustainable opportunities.
Recognising that governance is a shared responsibility, the minister called on all citizens, civil society organisations, the private sector, and the media to collaborate in driving progress.
“We cannot afford business as usual. It is time to reset and build the Greater Accra we all desire. Together, we will make this region a model of development, governance, and environmental sustainability.”
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