STAR-Ghana Foundation Engages Stakeholders to Shape 2026-2029 Medium-Term Development Plans
The STAR-Ghana Foundation has convened a high-level stakeholder meeting in Tamale to discuss strategies for influencing the 2026-2029 Medium-Term Development Plans (MTDPs) under the Actions for Voice, Influence, and Inclusive Development (AVID) project. The event, themed “Enhancing Participatory Governance: Influencing the MTDP for Inclusive and Sustainable Development,” aimed to foster citizen engagement in governance and development planning.
Empowering Citizens for Inclusive Development
Funded by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the AVID project seeks to empower citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) to advocate for an equitable and inclusive society, particularly in underserved communities. It focuses on addressing systemic barriers that limit access to quality public services and infrastructure, with special attention to marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities and small-scale farmers.
Call for Greater Citizen Participation
Speaking at the event, Mr. Raymond Danso, Portfolio Manager at STAR-Ghana Foundation, emphasized the critical role of citizen participation in shaping development plans at the municipal and district levels. He highlighted the importance of CSOs in ensuring that the voices of local communities are reflected in governance and policymaking.
“Today marks the first of four zonal convenings where we engaged 12 Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). The discussions focused on key gaps in economic development, social services, peace and security, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). These engagements are essential in shaping the MTDPs to address the real needs of our communities,” Mr. Danso stated.
He expressed optimism that the consultative process would help integrate the priorities of marginalized groups into the 2026-2029 MTDPs, driving sustainable and inclusive development.
Local Government Commitment to Inclusive Planning
Mr. Charles Akurugu, Acting Coordinating Director for the Savelugu Municipal Assembly, commended STAR-Ghana Foundation for championing inclusive development. He noted that district assemblies have already begun drafting their MTDPs, with the next phase focusing on extensive community consultations to identify and prioritize development needs.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including CSOs, local government officials, and community representatives, fostering dialogue on enhancing participatory governance. Discussions centered on ensuring that development policies at the district and municipal levels align with the actual needs of citizens.
Source : Ibrahim Angaangmeni Alhassan/Zaaghana.com
