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Uniting Against Tuberculosis: La Dade-Kotopon Municipality’s Commemoration of World Tuberculosis Day

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On the 24th of March each year, communities worldwide come together to observe World Tuberculosis Day, a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against this infectious disease. The roots of this global awareness day trace back to 1842 when German physician Heinrich Hermann Robert Koch identified mycobacterium as the causative agent of tuberculosis. Dedicated to raising awareness and garnering support in the fight against TB, the day is marked by a range of activities, including media engagement, street floats, seminars, durbars, and screening initiatives.

In the La Municipality, the 24th of March was not just a date on the calendar but a call to action. Under the leadership of the Honorable Municipal Chief Executive and the Municipal Health Directorate, the community actively engaged in a series of impactful activities to educate the public and encourage collective efforts in the fight against TB.

Educational Endeavors: Fostering Awareness in Every Corner

The municipality took a comprehensive approach to health education and sensitization, ensuring that information about TB reached every corner. Health facilities across the municipality became hubs for disseminating knowledge, empowering individuals with vital insights into the disease.

Radio LATENU, a community radio station, became a powerful ally in the campaign against TB. A dedicated radio talk session served as a platform for in-depth discussions on TB, reaching a broader audience and breaking down complex medical information into accessible knowledge.

Reaching the Hearts of Communities: Sensitization Beyond Borders

The La Polyclinic TB team orchestrated an impactful outreach program, setting up camp at the La Market Complex. Using TB screening tools, they screened 106 individuals, identifying 16 presumed cases and initiating treatment for one confirmed case. The screening extended beyond TB, encompassing critical health metrics like blood sugar levels, malaria, blood pressure, and weight.

The team’s commitment transcended physical boundaries. St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High School became a focal point for education, where the TB team, in collaboration with the school nurse, sensitized the staff and a student body of approximately 2000 individuals. An interactive session provided a platform for questions and answers, fostering a deeper understanding of TB within the younger generation.

Empowering Through Information: Beyond Screenings

The fight against TB extended beyond screenings to the distribution of leaflets and posters. These educational materials were strategically disseminated, reinforcing essential information about TB prevention and early detection.

A Multi-Faceted Approach: Collaboration in Action

Acknowledging that community health is a collective responsibility, the La Municipality recognized key stakeholder’s instrumental in the success of World Tuberculosis Day activities. The collaborative efforts of the Municipal Assembly, Radio LATENU, La Polyclinic TB Team, La Market Leadership, and the entire La community were integral to the campaign’s success.

A Promising Future: Initiatives on the Horizon

In his closing remarks, the Honorable Municipal Chief Executive shared promising initiatives. Plans were underway for drainage construction and the repair of malfunctioning streetlights, particularly in the Tse-Addo area, enhancing security measures within the municipality.

The members of the La Burma Valley Residents Association expressed heartfelt appreciation for the engagement and assurances given by the Hon. MCE. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to more such engagements, recognizing the pivotal role they play in driving development within the municipality.

As the sun set on World Tuberculosis Day in the La Municipality, it left behind not just footprints of medical screenings but a legacy of community collaboration, education, and a shared commitment to a healthier, more informed future.

LaDMA Strengthens the Sub-Structures

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The La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) in February 2022 reorganized its two Zonal Councils to improve its services and better serve the people. The Councils were created to decentralize decision-making and provide effective representation to the communities in the municipality.

The reorganization involved the election of Council Chairs who will serve a two-year term in office. The elected Council Chairs are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring effective communication and collaboration between the Assembly and the communities in their respective zones.

The move by LaDMA to reorganize its Zonal Councils is part of its efforts to decentralize decision-making and improve service delivery to the people. The Zonal Councils play a critical role in ensuring that the voices of the people are heard, and their needs are addressed.

The Councils provide a platform for community members to engage with their leaders and discuss issues affecting their communities. They also work closely with the Assembly to identify and prioritize development projects in their respective zones.

The reorganization of the Zonal Councils is a clear indication of LaDMA’s commitment to promoting good governance and ensuring that the people’s needs are met. By providing effective representation and decentralizing decision-making, the Assembly is working towards creating a more inclusive and responsive government.

The newly elected Council Chairs are expected to work closely with the Assembly and the communities in their respective zones to identify and address their development needs. They will also serve as a bridge between the people and the Assembly, ensuring that the people’s voices are heard and their needs are met.

In conclusion, the reorganization of LaDMA’s Zonal Councils is a step in the right direction towards promoting good governance and ensuring that the people’s needs are met. The Councils provide an avenue for community members to engage with their leaders and contribute to the development of their communities. With the newly elected Council Chairs in place, the Assembly is poised to provide more effective representation and better serve the people of La Dade Kotopon Municipality.

La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly Celebrates Heritage Month

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The staff of the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly joined the nation in celebrating Heritage Month, a time dedicated to honouring and appreciating our rich cultural heritage.

The month-long celebration was marked with a series of activities that showcased the diverse cultures within the municipality. Staff members dressed in traditional attire, shared local folklore, and participated in traditional dances and music performances.

The Chief Executive of the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly commended the staff for their enthusiastic participation and emphasized the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. He stated, “Our heritage is a source of pride and identity. It is important that we celebrate it and pass it on to future generations.”

The Heritage Month celebration was not only a time of fun and camaraderie among the staff but also an opportunity to educate and raise awareness about the importance of cultural preservation

LaDMA Certifies 6000 Out of 7456 Food Handlers Screened

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6000 food handlers in the La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) underwent mandatory medical health screening in 2023 to ensure safe and hygienic food for public consumption.

Out Of the number, 4000 were females while 2000 were males all from the hospitality industries, restaurants, drinking and chop bars. The data contained in the 2023 Annual Report of the Environmental Health Department revealed that 3500 females and 1500 males out of the total number screened were found fit and issued suitability health and safety certificates.

 

Speaking to the report, the Environmental Health officer, Evans said out of the number screened 4800 were new applicants while 1200 were renewals adding that the screenings included education sessions on proper hygiene practices, nutrition, and general health awareness and were designed to cover a range of health parameters, including communicable diseases, hygiene-related illnesses, and overall physical fitness among others.

 

He explained that the screening exercise was carried out to among other things maintain high standards in the food industry, and enhance public confidence by reducing potential health risks associated with food consumption.

 

 “By proactively addressing health concerns among food vendors, LaDMA aims to mitigate the risk of foodborne illnesses and other health-related issues that could arise from the consumption of contaminated food… The Assembly acknowledges that the informal sector constitutes 80 per cent of the workforce, hence the mass screening exercises to promote the local food industry and assure consumers of high safety standards.

 

He disclosed that out of the total number screened 272 vendors were found to have health concerns and provided with guidance and referrals to appropriate healthcare facilities for further evaluation and treatment.

 

He encouraged all persons associated with the preparation, transportation, and sale of food restaurants, cafes, catering companies chop bars to the general public to undergo regular health check-ups and participate in health screening exercises by the Assembly to ensure safe food.

 

“As we continue to priorities public health and safety, the Assembly remains committed to proactive measures that contribute to the overall well-being of residents, adding that the Assembly’s responsibility to safeguard the health of the general public by ensuring that all food handlers undergo screenings and training, we are taking a proactive step towards preventing foodborne diseases and maintaining La’s reputation as a vibrant culinary destination,” she said.MA

REVIEWING LOCAL PLANS (PLANNING SCHEMES) KEY FOR EFFECTIVE PLANNING-LaDMA

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FLASHBACK: A SCENE OF EXHIBITION OF DRAFT REVISED LOCAL PLAN FOR CANTONMENTS AT PALM WINE JUNCTION SHELL FILLING STATION-LA

The La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) has identified the reviewing of Local Plans (Planning Schemes) for the Cantonments residential area as a key for effective planning within the area.

According to the Physical Planning Director for LaDMA, the reviewing exercise of the area was in the pursuant to Section 46(4) (f) of the Land Use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925) to review and update existing  Local Plans, which have become updated in the face of current development patterns and changes in land uses over time.

Mr Fredrick Anthony Mompi, the director of the Physical Planning Department said, the La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly in collaboration with the Land Use and Spatial Planning Authority have publicised the reviewing exercise in the National News Papers for residents to submit their input and comments on the proposals for consideration in the final draft plan, prior to approval. According to him, the Information Services Department Mobile Cinema Van has gone round the Cantonments area publicising the reviewing exercise for days.

According to the director of Physical Planning Department, copies of the draft revised Local Plans have been placed at the following locations within the Cantonments area for public viewing and input and about the proposals.  Ghana Free Zones Authority, W.E.B.Dubois Centre, Morning Star School, Palm Wine Junction Shell Filling Station, Embassy Gardens, Risen Christ Church, Covenant Family Community Church, (Soul Clinic) Koala Shopping Centre, American Embassy Taxi Rank and Togo Embassy Taxi Rank.

Mr Daniel Nkrumah, the coordinating director for LaDMA urged the stakeholders to cooperate with the team of field officers who have been deployed by the assembly to the Cantonments area to collect and validate Land Use data that will be incorporated into the revised plan for approval.

MCE Tours Basic Schools To Assess Challenges, Appeals To Corporate Ghana For Assistance

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The Municipal Chief Executive of La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly, Hon Solomon Kotey has paid a working visit to some basic schools in the Municipality to assess the challenges the schools face and develop necessary solutions to address them. 

The schools visited are South La JHS and South la Estate Basic School among others, all located in the South La electoral area. At South La 1 and 2 Basic Schools, the team observed that the structures and roofs were weak with iron rods protruding out of the pillars. The team also observed an abandoned GetFund project which was yet to be completed.  

When the team got to the Salem Basic School, Madam Rita Osei Agyeman, Headmistress of the school narrated how the damaged roofing sheets had affected the electricals, ceilings, and disrupting teaching and learning especially when it rains. 

She assured that the Assembly had taken note of the challenges facing the schools and promised measures were being taken to address them whilst calling on Corporate Ghana for assistance. Earlier in an interaction with pupils, the MCE urged them to take their studies serious as well as encouraged them to work tirelessly and assured them that with discipline and God’s guidance they would come out with flying colours.

Empowering Futures: La Municipality’s Fight Against School Dropout

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In response to the pressing issue of school dropout rates within the La catchment area, the Social Welfare and Community Development Department of the La Municipality orchestrated a transformative event. This initiative brought together educators, community leaders, parents, and students to collaboratively address the multifaceted challenges contributing to school dropout.

Challenges Identified:

The event acknowledged economic hardships, limited access to educational resources, and inadequate infrastructure as contributing factors to school dropout in the La catchment area.

Collaborative Solutions Proposed:

Community-Driven Initiatives: Emphasized the power of community involvement through mentorship programs, locally-supported scholarships, and community-led after-school support networks.

Infrastructure Enhancement: Highlighted the need for improved educational infrastructure, including adequate classrooms, well-equipped libraries, and recreational spaces.

Parental Engagement: Advocated for effective parenting strategies, fostering communication between parents and teachers, and understanding the unique needs of each student.

Student-Centric Approach: Recognized the importance of creating an inclusive and empowering educational environment that accommodates the diverse needs and talents of every student.

Commitment to Action:

The event concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts. Participants pledged to translate insights into actionable steps, ensuring sustained efforts to address the root causes of school dropout rates in the La catchment area.

Conclusion:

This event, led by the Social Welfare and Community Development Department, symbolizes a pivotal moment in the La Municipality’s journey towards educational excellence and empowerment. Through shared insights, collaborative strategies, and a resolute commitment to positive change, the community stands united against the challenges of school dropout, heralding a brighter future for its students.

LADMA RECORDS 8,960 New Births And 5464 Deaths

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8,960 new births and 5464 deaths were registered in the La Dade Kotopon Assembly (LADMA) during the year 2023.

 Out of 8960 new-borns registered, 4541 were males whilst 4419 were females.  

According to the data, 2207, 2016, 2112 and 2625 children under one (1) year were registered during the first, second, third and fourth quarters respectively. 

The Head of Birth and Death registry at LaDMA, Mrs Sheila Naa Addo who disclosed this on Friday 19 JULY said the number registered had exceeded the expected target of 4181 births and 935 deaths

She added this was achieved through the constant visits by officers of Births and Deaths Registry to the hospitals, clinics, maternity homes, delivery and weighing centers across the eight registries within the Municipality.

She emphasized the importance of the data for urban planning, healthcare provision, and educational resource allocation.

She said the data highlighted the demographic trends and population growth within the metropolis and encouraged residents to register births and the deaths of their relatives promptly.  

She commended the Births and Deaths Registry of the LaDMA for the sensitization campaigns and mass birth registration exercise they conducted last year to register all, especially children below one year in the city attributing it to the increase in the number of registrations. 

The Births and Deaths Registry exists following the Births and Deaths Act, 2020 (Act 1027), which mandates the registration and certification of births, deaths, and foetal deaths in the country for national development and related issues.

LaDMA Holds Maiden Management Meeting

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La Dade Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) has held its inaugural management meeting following the Christmas break to strategize for the 2023 fiscal year.  

The meeting, which took place at the Conference Hall of the LaDMA, brought together key officials and all 13 departmental heads to set priorities for the upcoming months.  

 The MCE, in a welcome address, wished all present a Happy New Year and described 2023 as a year of Projects.  

He expressed gratitude for the successful collaboration and achievements of the previous year, acknowledging the challenges faced and the resilience demonstrated by the assembly in overcoming them. 

he emphasized the need for a renewed commitment to the city’s development goals, adding that the main challenge that needed to be addressed was the issue of revenue generation.  

“Today we are here to strategize for the year and together we can do more. I foresee that our main challenge is the amount we generate, we have a lot of projects but if the revenue is not coming we need to be on the mobilizers to do more, ” he said.  

Several critical issues were addressed during the meeting, including the status and comprehensive review of ongoing infrastructure projects, an update on the 2022 GARID Project implementation and preparation for the 2023 GARID assessment, preparation for the 2023 Performance Contract Assessment as well as the DPAT VIII 2023, 2023   Budget review and 2024 Budget estimates, as well as a discussion on community engagement strategies. 

Other topics discussed during the meeting were matters arising from the previous meetings such as the clear demarcation of the LaDMA’s boundaries and the need to educate the public about them, using social media to promote Assembly activities.

The Assembly’s financial standing and adherence to budgetary constraints were meticulously examined to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency.

In line with the Assembly’s commitment to effective governance and public service delivery, discussions also centered around implementing innovative solutions to address urban challenges and enhance the quality of life for residents in the metropolitan area.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment from all to priorities the welfare of residents, efficient service delivery, and the realization of the LaDMA’s development agenda.  In an interview after the meeting, the Coordinating Director for the LaDMA, Mr. Daniel Nkrumah, expressed optimism about the positive impact the meeting would have on the overall growth and well-being of the city

MCE BEMOANS STAFF LATENESS

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The Municipal Chief Executive of La Dade-Kotopon Municipal Assembly (LaDMA) Mr Solomon Kotey Nikoi bemoans the attitude of staff towards work and urged heads of departments and Units to ensure that staff adhere to the clock-in and out policy.The MCE made this call at this year’s staff durbar held on Thursday December 22, 2022 at the forecourt of the municipal assembly.

Mr Solomon Kotey Nikoi mentioned that management has decided to better the lives of the Internally Generated Fund (IGF) staff by moving them from 2015 salary structure to 2018 structure due to the state of the economy.He said the assembly’s performance for 2021 was unprecedented, and that the assembly was adjudged first in the 2021 performance contract. He said to maintain the position for a long time, it needs hard work and commitment to the course of the assembly’s duty.

Speaking on the local government performance appraisal instrument and performance contract, Mr Daniel Nkrumah, the municipal coordinating director, urged staff to ensure that their heads appraise them on time. He cautioned heads of department and Units heads against the delay appraising of the staff. He said it is bad practice that the Human Resource Department will have to remind heads before doing the right thing.

Mr Daniel Nkrumah encouraged staff to be at post by 8: am and close at 5: pm. He advised heads of departments and Units to query absentees and lateness.The assembly honoured three staff for their hard work for the year 2021. Mr Henry Quartey, an assistant security officer station at the Morning Star School was awarded for the best worker 2021. The second best went Mr Enoch Donkor, an assistant security officer station at El-Wak annex while the third best award went to Mr Shadrack Tetteh, an assistant computer operator.