Category: Information Services

CORRUPTION AND INJUSTICE: THREATS TO NATION BUILDING

The Municipal Chief Executive for La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly, LaDMA, Honourable Solomon Nikoi Kotey, has stated that corruption and injustice are the enemies that hinder the development of the nation. He urged the citizenry to help build a more inclusive, equitable, and just society to combat these threats.

He made the call during the Municipal celebration of Ghana’s 67th Independence Day Anniversary held at the forecourt of the Ghana International Trade Fair Centre, La. The MCE emphasized that commitment and dedication to the ideals of Ghana’s democracy and its values define Ghanaians. He called on all Ghanaians to unite in building a better Ghana where individuals can fulfill their God-given potential. According to the MCE, Ghana’s journey to independence was marked by sacrifice, resilience, and steadfast willpower in the fight for freedom from colonial masters. He called for the protection of the country’s democracy for the current and future generations.

Embracing Tradition: LaDMA’s Inaugural “LaDMA Goes Traditional” Event

On the 4th of March 2024, the Culture Department of the La Dadekotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) made a significant mark with its inaugural event, aptly titled “LaDMA Goes Traditional.” Held at the premises of the Municipal Assembly, this one-day program aimed to celebrate Ghanaian heritage and culture in all its diversity.
Under the guidance of Mr. Fred Mensah Sewordor, the Municipal Culture Officer, the event welcomed departmental heads and staff from LaDMA. Dressed in vibrant Ghanaian traditional attire representing various regions, attendees gathered to honor the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture.

The program commenced with a solemn prayer, setting the tone for a day filled with cultural immersion and appreciation. Traditional music filled the air, providing a melodious backdrop to the festivities. A highlight of the event was a spirited photo shoot, capturing the essence of Ghanaian heritage against the backdrop of the Assembly Hall.
In recent years, the importance of tourism as an economic driver has become increasingly evident. Across the globe, tourism serves as a vital source of revenue, investment, and job creation. In Ghana, initiatives such as the “Year of Return” in 2019 and “Beyond the Return” have spotlighted the country’s tourism potential, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Since 2020, the Ghana Tourism Authority, alongside key stakeholders, has been diligently compiling and disseminating comprehensive tourism data. These efforts aim to not only showcase Ghana’s diverse attractions but also to provide valuable insights for industry stakeholders and the public alike.

The “LaDMA Goes Traditional” event encapsulated the spirit of Ghanaian culture, eliciting joy and appreciation from all who attended. As participants immersed themselves in the festivities, they not only celebrated tradition but also reaffirmed the importance of preserving and promoting Ghana’s cultural heritage.
In conclusion, LaDMA’s inaugural cultural event served as a testament to the power of tradition in fostering community cohesion and pride. By embracing Ghana’s rich cultural tapestry, events like “LaDMA Goes Traditional” play a vital role in shaping the identity and narrative of our nation for generations to come.

LA DADE-KOTOPON MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY ADVOCATES FOR REVENUE PAYMENT TO BOOST DEVELOPMENT

The Information Services Department (ISD) of La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) has heightened efforts to sensitize the public on the importance of fulfilling their tax obligations. The move came as the government reverted the collection of property rates to the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

The ISD office emphasizes residents’ need to honor their property rates and other bills, emphasizing that the assembly would not tolerate any defaulters. It reiterated the assembly’s commitment to implementing approved programs and projects for the municipality’s development.

The collection of the bills, according to the ISD office, is mandated by the bylaws under the local government act, granting the municipal assembly authority to set fees for properties, businesses, and locations based on the assembly’s fee-fixing resolution.

Highlighting the utilization of these funds, the office outlined various development projects such as road construction, school buildings, streetlights, drainage systems, skill training, sanitation, and security, all aimed at benefiting the general public. It warned that any obstruction or interference with the authorized personnel conducting duties on behalf of the assembly would lead to arrest and prosecution.

The public was urged to settle all bills at the assembly’s pay points and cooperate with bill collectors to contribute to the municipality’s transformation.

LaDMA Inducts New Assembly and Unit Committee Members

The introductory ceremony for both the Assembly and Unit Committee members of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly took place at the assembly’s forecourt on Monday, February 12, 2024. This event followed a successful district-level election held on December 19, 2023. Ten elected assembly members, five government appointees, and fifty Unit Committee members were officially affirmed into office for the 4th La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA). Among them, Mr. Emmanuel Nyarko Baah received 15 votes and was elected as the Presiding Member of the Assembly for the third consecutive time, having stood unopposed.

In his address, Rev. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, the Municipal Chief Executive for the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly, expressed appreciation to the outgoing assembly members and the Unit Committee members. He acknowledged their selflessness, dedication, hard work, and service to the people in the Municipality. Their contributions have significantly contributed to the development of the municipality, and the pivotal role played by assembly members and Unit Committee members in driving development cannot be underestimated.

Rev. Solomon Kotey Nikoi emphasized that the newly elected assembly members, government appointees, and Unit Committee members reflect a true commitment to community service and the trust placed in them. He urged all members to accept their responsibilities and work collaboratively for the development of the municipality.

Furthermore, Hon. Rev. Solomon Kotey Nikoi announced that the management has designed comprehensive strategies for implementing the policies, programs, and activities outlined in the 2024 annual action plan. He called upon the assembly members to collectively strive toward achieving common goals.

According to Rev. Solomon Kotey Nikoi, the assembly has a long-term plan ready for consideration. This plan aims to be a game-changer for the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA). It provides details on the assembly’s short-term, mid-term, and long-term programs. The goal is to enable the assembly to fulfill its mandate over the next 15 years.

Hon. Solomon calls on the assembly members to prioritize the interests and welfare of the citizenry. He emphasizes the need to create jobs and foster development at their doorstep. Additionally, he urges the assembly members to promptly elect their presiding member.

Empowering Women and Youth through Skill Development: A Case Study of La Municipality’s Training Workshop

Introduction:
In line with its social responsibility, the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development in the La Municipality organized a six-week training workshop aimed at equipping women and youth with employable skills. The workshop, held during the quarter under review, focused on areas such as Pastry Making, Make-up, and Decoration, providing participants with valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Objectives:
The primary objectives of the training workshop were to train ninety youth or women in employable skills and to empower the youth and women of La Municipality. Through practical training and hands-on experience, participants were expected to gain valuable skills that could enhance their employability and socioeconomic status.

Summary:
Before the commencement of the training, the department reached out to the general public, urging interested individuals to register for the workshop. Equal opportunities were provided to various groups, including dressmakers, hairdressers, and women and youth groups, to participate in the training. Orientation sessions were conducted, and the training officially began on November 3rd, 2023, with the support and encouragement of municipal leaders and stakeholders.

Training:
The training sessions were conducted by experienced trainers who developed a comprehensive Training Manual to guide the teaching process. Participants were closely monitored, and their attendance and performance were recorded throughout the training period. At the conclusion of the workshop, participants were assessed through basic and general questions to evaluate their understanding of the course material.

Conclusion:
Despite facing challenges such as attendance issues among elderly participants and financial constraints, the training workshop achieved significant success. A total of eighty-six participants successfully completed the program, demonstrating their commitment to learning and personal development. The promise of further opportunities, such as registration for the National Vocational and Technical Institute Examination (NVTI) and internship placements, serves as an incentive for participants to continue their journey towards self-improvement.

Challenges:
Several challenges were encountered during the implementation of the training workshop, including attendance issues, cleanliness concerns at the venue, and financial constraints. These challenges highlight the importance of addressing logistical and operational issues to ensure the smooth running of similar programs in the future.

Recommendations:
To enhance the effectiveness of future training workshops, it is recommended to allocate adequate funding and introduce measures such as bench markers to promote participant accountability. Additionally, attachment programs should be introduced to provide participants with practical experience in their respective fields, further enhancing their employability and skill development.

In conclusion, the training workshop organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development in the La Municipality serves as a testament to the commitment to empowering women and youth through skill development initiatives. By addressing challenges and implementing recommendations, similar programs can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of participants and contribute to the overall socioeconomic development of the municipality.

 

 

LA: ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY MODEL SCHOOL ADJUDGED WINNER OF THE SMART GOVERNORS QUIZ COMPETITION

Association Community Model School, the 2023 District Inter Junior Schools Quiz Competition

The Association Community Model School has won the 2023 district inter Junior High Schools quiz competition finals held at Tenashie Junior High School with 47 points, the first runner- up 5BN JHS with 34 points and Tenashie JHS the host school came third with 33 points after the third rounds of contest.

Organised by the Assembly’s National Commission of Civic Education (NCCE) on the theme: Thirty years of consolidating Constitutional Democracy; Building National cohesion through Civic Education and participation in Local Governance. This was to test the pupils understanding of the constitution.

The winner for the competition, Association Community Model School was presented with a Plaque, copies of the constitution, certificates of participation and books to contestants and their patrons. The first and the second runner-up were presented with a plaque, copies of the constitution, and certificates to contestant’s patrons.

The participating schools were the Tenashie JHS, 5BN Junior High School, Wireless ‘5’ Junior High School, Enobal Junior High School, Air Force JHS, and Association Community Model School.

The Quiz Competition hail as ‘Smart Governors Constitution Quiz Competition’, which seeks to project, and promote the significance of the 1992 Republican Constitution to the youth and instil in them the intellect of civic responsibility for national development. Mr Emmanuel Mettle the director of NCCE mentioned that the annual event also pursues to lure active citizenship from the Basic school pupils to enable them to play a part in the promoting and supporting Ghana’s democracy.

The chair of the occasion, Alhaji Abdul Aziz Osang urged the pupils to study to the highest level to justify the investment made in them by their parents. He bemoans the low standard exhibited by the students and admonished them to focus on their books rather than movies and phones. 

The Municipal Director of NCCE, Mr Emmanuel Mettle, mentioned that students have been recognised as the most important foundation of human capital and are key agents for socio-culture, economic and political development in our current dispensation. Moreover, he held that it is important to cultivate and harness the intellectual abilities of the students by instilling in them the constitution of Ghana and National Development.

The intents of the quiz competition was to create awareness of Ghana’s Constitution, LaDMA Bye-Laws and to test the civic knowledge of the students.

Dr. Joseph Gerald Nyanyofio who was the guest of honour, urged the students to avoid social immoralities but rather focus on their learning to become good and responsible future leaders.

LaDMA HOLDS TOWN HALL MEETING

The La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) has held its second quarter town hall meeting at the Calvary Apostolic Revival Church, with a call on the stakeholders to keep faith in the assembly system to help propel the development of the local economy by paying their rates on schedule.

The Town Hall meeting was organized under the theme: Participatory Planning and Budgeting: the Role of Stakeholders. The meeting was in the fulfilment of the Local Government Act 936 of 2016.

The Municipal Chief Executive for the assembly, Hon Solomon Kotey Nikoi disclosed that LaDMA through its judicious use of public funds to improve the lives of the people in the municipality was adjudged the Second best in the country in the first ever MMDA & PFM league table published by the Internal Audit Agency. On the performance, he mentioned ongoing and completed projects during the period under review.

The aim at projecting the 2024 planning and budgeting of the Assembly to the public is to actively involve stakeholders in the shaping of the future of the municipality.

He said to improve participatory democracy and to promote an all-inclusive governance for development, accountability, and transparency, the Assembly deem it appropriate to give an account of what has transpired up to the third quarter of the year 2023.  He said the meeting was to seek the various views and support from the stakeholders in the run-up of the preparation and approval of 2024 Planning and budgeting for the running of the assembly administration in the ensuing year.

He said the Assembly has worked hand in hand with the traditional rulers, Developmental Partners and other Civil Society Organisations to jointly push developmental drive over the years.

He continued that the assembly has embarked on a number of programmes and projects that featured in the 2023 annual action plan and composite budget which includes government flagship programmes, physical projects and social interventions. According to him, the Agric Department has vaccinated 1000 pets against rabies and 8000 birds against new disease. He continued that the department has trained livestock farmers on improved farm sanitation and prevention of diseases to boost meat production in the local economy.

The Hon MCE mentioned that the YouStart has trained 131 in leadership, financial literacy, business management, bookkeeping, and tax compliance to reduced unemployment in the local economy.

On revenue, the MCE stated that the assembly employed a number of strategies to recoup all rates to meet 2023 IGF targets.

The MCE mentioned that several projects through IGF, DACF, and DDF have been completed and others are ongoing.

He said the completion of a 3 Unit Classroom blocks with ancillary facilities at St Anglican School, the La Salem Presby JHS, the ongoing 3 Unit 18 classroom blocks at La Wireless cluster of schools and the rehabilitation of South La ‘2’JHS. The road asphalting in the municipality, reshaping and patching of pothole, drains and fixing of streetlights are testimony of the assembly’s hand works.

Hon Solomon Kotey Nikoi called on stakeholders to join hands with the assembly to fight youth delinquency and its related complications, drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, gambling, streetism, unlawful activities on the streets, sanitation, and boundary disputes, which has been the assembly major contests.

Hon Rita Odoley Sowah, the Hon MP for the La Dade-Kotopon Constituency spoke about breast cancer and its effects on women. She admonished the women in the municipality to go to the hospital to have their breast examined because early detection saves lives.

She further continued to say that she has come into an agreement with the hospital officials at La Polyclinic charge a subsided amount to enable women in the municipality to come for the breast cancer testing. She mentioned that she has made a deposit of Five Thousand Ghana Cedis to run the test of fifty women. She mentioned that other two organisations have paid Ten Thousand Ghana Cedis each to help run the test. Hon Rita Odoley Sowah encouraged the women to take advantage to know their breast status.

LaDMA NADMO BEGINS OUTREACH PROGRAMME TO EDUCATE CAR GARAGES ON FIRE SAFETY AND PREVENTION.

The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) in collaboration with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has begun outreach programme to sensitise car garages on fire safety and fire fighting to prevent fire outbreaks.

The agenda is geared towards the protection of lives and properties in the Municipality. The sensitisation which was held at the Patsims Motors Ltd on Wednesday October 18, 2023, attracted participants from other garages.

The Municipal NADMO Director, Madam Deborah Akua Ofori said the programme was a Municipal wide call to encourage car garage owners and the public to practise fire safety in the Municipality.

The car garages were identified as one of the institutions that has failed to comply with the fire safety measures, and has resulted in a number of fire outbreaks recorded in the Municipality.

The Resource Person from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), urged the participants to employ the services of qualified electrical engineers for the wiring of their homes and garages, as well as avoid the use of fake gadgets and replace electrical wires after two decades of usage.

The Head of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) team Madam Gifty Okai advised the participants to acquire quality fire extinguishers like dry chemical and Co2 (Carbone dioxide) for use at both home and the garages. She said NADMO in collaboration with the GNFS would ensure compliance with the safety precautions in all garages. She said they would visit the facilities to carry out inspection of firefighting apparatus periodically.

The officers from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) took participant through firefighting techniques and pleaded  for more education at the market places and the lorry stations.

NADMO Director Leads Successful Float and Presents Award at International Disaster Risk Reduction Celebration

On the bright morning of October 6th, 2023, the NADMO director stood tall, ensuring a successful float during the International Disaster Risk Reduction Celebration. With meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, the NADMO team orchestrated a vibrant display of unity and preparedness, showcasing their commitment to disaster resilience.

As the c float paraded through the streets, decorated with symbols of safety and resilience, the NADMO director beamed with pride, knowing that their efforts were not in vain. Spectators lined the streets, applauding the dedication of the NADMO team and maintaining their belief in the importance of disaster risk reduction.

In the middle of the festivities, the NADMO director also had the honor of presenting an award to a participant from one of the schools that had actively engaged in the International Disaster Risk Reduction Celebration. With honest words of commendation, the director recognized the student’s exemplary dedication to promoting disaster awareness and preparedness within their community.

As the celebration drew to a close, the NADMO director reflected on the day’s events with a sense of fulfilment. Their efforts had not only ensured a successful celebration but had also inspired a new generation to take visionary steps towards building a safer and more resilient future.

LA SALEM PRESBY JHS COMMISIONED

Hon Solomon Kotey Nikoi, the Municipal Chief Executive of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) has asked the pupils of the La Salem Presby JHS, and the teachers and non-teaching staff to recognise the importance of the school building to the municipality and see to its constant maintenance for generations to come.

The MCE made the call when he commissioned the 3 Unit Classroom Block with ancillary facilities at the La Presby Salem JHS. He disclosed the contract sum of the project as One Million, Two Hundred and Twenty-Four Thousand, and Four Hundred and Twenty- One Ghana Cedis (Gh₵ 1,224, 421.00) which was sourced from the RFG District Assembly Common Fund (DACF).

The MCE said part of the Assembly’s commitment is to provide the necessary infrastructure needed to facilitate access to education and also improve the quality of teaching and learning in the Municipality. He mentioned that the new building signifies another landmark in the flight of education, empowerment and progress made in the municipality. He sustained that, for any society to develop and shape minds and talents of the youth, it would depend on education, which is the foundation stone to equip them with the required tools to steer the challenges of the modern world.

Hon Rita Odoley Sowah, the Member of Parliament of the La Dade-Kotopon Constituency urged the pupils to study well to become imminent leaders who would take over from the forebears. She advised them to avoid early pregnancy, that would cost their future and appealed to the parents to keep an eye on their children because they are the backbone of the Country.

Responding to the media, Mr Richard Ben Debrah, the Municipal Works Engineer stated that the project resumed on 31st January 2023, and was completed on 30th September 2023, a month before the scheduled time by the M/S Ellbus Company Limited under the supervision of the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly Works Department. Mr Richard Ben Debrah stated that, because of scarcity land in the Municipality, the Assembly’s policy is to build vertical school blocks. He hinted that the Assembly would source for funds to complete the second phase of the building in 2024.