By Edmund Mingle
The Coca Cola Company, the leading global beverage producer says it is set to invest over 60million dollars in its operations in the country, as well as support government’s initiatives to develop the beverage industry.
The company is currently investing about 30 million dollars in the establishment of a new factory in the Central Region for the production of juice and other beverages, after which it would invest another 31million dollars to expand its existing operational structures in the country.
Curts Ferguson, Head of North-West Africa for Coca Cola Equatorial Africa, who informed President John Evans Atta Mills of the of the company’s intentions when he led executives of the firm to call on the President at the Castle, Osu in Accra yesterday, said they were very committed to increasing their investments in Ghana.
“Ghana presents a huge potential for us to grow our beverage business,” he told journalists after the meeting with the President.
He said the company decided in branch into the production of other beverages such as pineapple juice in Ghana because the company, which is growing 10 per cent annually in Ghana, could rely on raw material supply in the country.
Mr. Ferguson, who is in charge 28 countries in northern and western Africa, was optimistic that the expansion of their production scale would create more jobs to complement government’s job creation efforts.
Already, he said the company’s decentralization of its product distribution structures, that has created over 130 distribution centres, particularly manned by women across the country, was part of measures to make the operation of the company more beneficial to Ghanaians.
He announced that the company would sponsor the 2010 World Cup Trophy Tour to Ghana on October 15 and 16, in which the cup would be taken through Ghana and other African countries.
President Mills, earlier commended the company for the investments in Ghana, and assured them of government’s commitment to ensure congenial business atmosphere and security of investment.
He said the government was happy that Coca Cola was branching into other areas of production using local raw material, saying it would enhance agriculture production, especially in the fruits sector.
Apart from the boost the company’s investment would give to the local economy, President Mills said it would further strengthen the ties between Ghana and the United States where the company has its headquarters.
The President urged investors to take advantage of investment opportunities in the country, and promised government’s continuous support and cooperation to ensure to ensure that their investment inure to the mutual benefit of Ghanaians.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
President interacts with NUGS
By Edmund Mingle
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday gave the strongest indication of government’s commitment to increase access to tertiary education in the country, saying that the government was reviewing education policies in that regard.
The measures for increased access to tertiary education, which is part of a comprehensive policy on education to be presented to Parliament before the end of the year, he said was to ensure that there were more educational facilities to admit more qualified candidates who may have been denied access.
President Mills, who said these when the Executive of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), called on him at the Castle in Accra, the government considered the development of the youth critical to nation’s future, and would therefore commit resources to improve the educational system.
Resources, he said would be channeled into the development and expansion of educational infrastructure and other facilities required for effective and productive tertiary education.
For a start, the government, he said was committing GHc 12.1million to enhance the Students Loan Scheme, as well as review the loans upwards for the 2010 disbursement formula.
Although the government would want to have all students supported under the loan scheme, he said measures were being undertaken in collaboration with the Council for Tertiary Education, to ensure that the loans went to those who really needed them.
Responding to a suggestion by the NUGS President, Ishmael Tweneboa-Kodua, that there should be a law that ensure that governments do not tamper with the educational structure for a stipulated number of years as a way of ensuring consistency in the system, the President disagreed.
Although he shared the view that there was a need for a sustained system, he said sometimes there was a need for reforms to ensure that the educational system responds to the exigencies pf the times.
“Our objective is that young people are given quality education,” he said.
He gave assurance that the government would put in place the right structures to enhance the education system, adding that “as leaders, the least we can do is to nurture the human resources of the nation.”
He lauded the visit of the executive to the Presidency, and assured them that the government would continue to interact with the youth as partners in development.
“I know your worth and what you can contribute to national development,” he told the executives.
President Mills urged the youth in general to only learn from the good sides of the older generation, and not imitate the bad sides.
That, he said was because the bad deeds of the older generation were inimical to national growth.
He also asked the older generation to desist from misleading the young people since that could adversely affect the nation’s future.
Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Communications who led a number of young Ministers in President Mills’ administration to the meeting, said that as much as government was determined to develop the talent of the youth, it was also committed to check crimes by the youth.
He announced that a Cyber Security Bill was being prepared for passage by Parliament which would result in the establishment of a Centre to police cyber activities as a way of effectively checking internet fraud which has become a menace in the country.
“The youth is not just the future leaders but the nation’s wealth and health which should be protected and nurtured,” he said.
Touching on tertiary education and the challenges in national development, he reminded the universities of the need to revise their curricula especially in information technology, to effectively address the need of industry.
The NUGS President, in his address earlier, thanked the President for granting them audience, and commended the government for initiatives towards the full implementation of the National Youth Policy.
“This policy, we are convinced would give the youth of this nation a sense of direction, purpose and hope,” Mr. Tweneboa-Kodua said.
The Union, he said was happy that many of its concerns were addressed in the manifesto of the ruling National Democratic Congress, adding that it was inspiring to know that the importance of the Union had been recognised.
He said it was retrogressive for a nation to fail to harness the abilities of the youth, but noted that NUGS was convinced that there was a brighter future for the youth in Ghana judging from the fact that more young people have been given positions in the president administration.
He assured the government of the support of the leadership of NUGS in developing the country, adding that “NUGS should not be seen as a pressure group but a major partner in development.”
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday gave the strongest indication of government’s commitment to increase access to tertiary education in the country, saying that the government was reviewing education policies in that regard.
The measures for increased access to tertiary education, which is part of a comprehensive policy on education to be presented to Parliament before the end of the year, he said was to ensure that there were more educational facilities to admit more qualified candidates who may have been denied access.
President Mills, who said these when the Executive of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), called on him at the Castle in Accra, the government considered the development of the youth critical to nation’s future, and would therefore commit resources to improve the educational system.
Resources, he said would be channeled into the development and expansion of educational infrastructure and other facilities required for effective and productive tertiary education.
For a start, the government, he said was committing GHc 12.1million to enhance the Students Loan Scheme, as well as review the loans upwards for the 2010 disbursement formula.
Although the government would want to have all students supported under the loan scheme, he said measures were being undertaken in collaboration with the Council for Tertiary Education, to ensure that the loans went to those who really needed them.
Responding to a suggestion by the NUGS President, Ishmael Tweneboa-Kodua, that there should be a law that ensure that governments do not tamper with the educational structure for a stipulated number of years as a way of ensuring consistency in the system, the President disagreed.
Although he shared the view that there was a need for a sustained system, he said sometimes there was a need for reforms to ensure that the educational system responds to the exigencies pf the times.
“Our objective is that young people are given quality education,” he said.
He gave assurance that the government would put in place the right structures to enhance the education system, adding that “as leaders, the least we can do is to nurture the human resources of the nation.”
He lauded the visit of the executive to the Presidency, and assured them that the government would continue to interact with the youth as partners in development.
“I know your worth and what you can contribute to national development,” he told the executives.
President Mills urged the youth in general to only learn from the good sides of the older generation, and not imitate the bad sides.
That, he said was because the bad deeds of the older generation were inimical to national growth.
He also asked the older generation to desist from misleading the young people since that could adversely affect the nation’s future.
Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Communications who led a number of young Ministers in President Mills’ administration to the meeting, said that as much as government was determined to develop the talent of the youth, it was also committed to check crimes by the youth.
He announced that a Cyber Security Bill was being prepared for passage by Parliament which would result in the establishment of a Centre to police cyber activities as a way of effectively checking internet fraud which has become a menace in the country.
“The youth is not just the future leaders but the nation’s wealth and health which should be protected and nurtured,” he said.
Touching on tertiary education and the challenges in national development, he reminded the universities of the need to revise their curricula especially in information technology, to effectively address the need of industry.
The NUGS President, in his address earlier, thanked the President for granting them audience, and commended the government for initiatives towards the full implementation of the National Youth Policy.
“This policy, we are convinced would give the youth of this nation a sense of direction, purpose and hope,” Mr. Tweneboa-Kodua said.
The Union, he said was happy that many of its concerns were addressed in the manifesto of the ruling National Democratic Congress, adding that it was inspiring to know that the importance of the Union had been recognised.
He said it was retrogressive for a nation to fail to harness the abilities of the youth, but noted that NUGS was convinced that there was a brighter future for the youth in Ghana judging from the fact that more young people have been given positions in the president administration.
He assured the government of the support of the leadership of NUGS in developing the country, adding that “NUGS should not be seen as a pressure group but a major partner in development.”
Nkrumah's centenary celebration planning committee inaugurated
By Edmund Mingle
Vice President John Dramani Mahama yesterday inaugurated the planning committee for the Centenary birthday celebration of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, with a charge to plan a befitting but less expensive celebration.
“This is a paradox you have to deal with, because we want a celebration befitting the stature Dr. Nkrumah, and yet it should we should be modest in view of the national economic challenges,” he told the members of the Committee at the Castle, Osu in Accra.
“The intention of government is to have befitting celebration for our first President who championed both African independence and unity,” he said.
He also asked the 18-member Committee chaired by Professor Akilakpa Sawyerr, Secretary General of the Association of African Universities, to ensure high level of transparency and accountability in its operations since they would be required to render proper accounts to Ghanaians at the end of their work.
The Committee which is a mix of politicians from various parties, academicians, historians among others, is expected plan the nature of the celebration including the duration, events, the drawing up of a budget and the implementation of activities marking the celebration which would be climaxed on September 21 this year, Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday.
They would also arrange the invitations of foreign dignitaries, especially Nkrumh’s comrades from across Africa, for the celebration.
It addition, the committee is expected to undertake the collection historical items such as artifacts, art works and monuments depicting the life of Dr. Nkrumah for proper storage.
Vice President Mahama commended the members fro accepting to serve on the Committee and said a Secretariat would be set up for them to operate.
He said the government would also provided the needed budget and also undertake a fundraising campaign to mobilize fund from the private sector in support of the celebration.
He, however, cautioned the committee to avoid the mistakes in the past that characterised the organisation of such activities such as the Ghana@50 celebration where proper accounting was not done, adding the committee would be asked to account for every penny.
The members are Prof. Badu Akosa, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, Prof. Nii Noi Dowuona, Bernard Mornah, Dr Esi Sutherland Addy, Dr. Sekou Nkrumah , Dr. Don Arthur , Dr. Yao Graham, Rev. Chris Hesse, Mohammed Ben Abdallah , Mr. J. H. Cobbinah , Mr. Ladi Nylander, Mr. Nat Mainoo, Madam. Araba Bentsi Enchill, Mrs. Bernice Deh-Kumah, Hon. A. Asuom Ahensan, and Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu.
Vice President John Dramani Mahama yesterday inaugurated the planning committee for the Centenary birthday celebration of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, with a charge to plan a befitting but less expensive celebration.
“This is a paradox you have to deal with, because we want a celebration befitting the stature Dr. Nkrumah, and yet it should we should be modest in view of the national economic challenges,” he told the members of the Committee at the Castle, Osu in Accra.
“The intention of government is to have befitting celebration for our first President who championed both African independence and unity,” he said.
He also asked the 18-member Committee chaired by Professor Akilakpa Sawyerr, Secretary General of the Association of African Universities, to ensure high level of transparency and accountability in its operations since they would be required to render proper accounts to Ghanaians at the end of their work.
The Committee which is a mix of politicians from various parties, academicians, historians among others, is expected plan the nature of the celebration including the duration, events, the drawing up of a budget and the implementation of activities marking the celebration which would be climaxed on September 21 this year, Dr. Nkrumah’s birthday.
They would also arrange the invitations of foreign dignitaries, especially Nkrumh’s comrades from across Africa, for the celebration.
It addition, the committee is expected to undertake the collection historical items such as artifacts, art works and monuments depicting the life of Dr. Nkrumah for proper storage.
Vice President Mahama commended the members fro accepting to serve on the Committee and said a Secretariat would be set up for them to operate.
He said the government would also provided the needed budget and also undertake a fundraising campaign to mobilize fund from the private sector in support of the celebration.
He, however, cautioned the committee to avoid the mistakes in the past that characterised the organisation of such activities such as the Ghana@50 celebration where proper accounting was not done, adding the committee would be asked to account for every penny.
The members are Prof. Badu Akosa, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, Prof. Nii Noi Dowuona, Bernard Mornah, Dr Esi Sutherland Addy, Dr. Sekou Nkrumah , Dr. Don Arthur , Dr. Yao Graham, Rev. Chris Hesse, Mohammed Ben Abdallah , Mr. J. H. Cobbinah , Mr. Ladi Nylander, Mr. Nat Mainoo, Madam. Araba Bentsi Enchill, Mrs. Bernice Deh-Kumah, Hon. A. Asuom Ahensan, and Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu.
Ghana@50 to be probed
By Edmund MingleThe President, John Evans Atta Mills, yesterday instituted a three-member presidential Commission of Inquiry to probe alleged financial malfeasance relating to transactions of the Ghana@50 Secretariat which organised the country’s golden jubilee independence anniversary in 2007.
The President believes that the probe is critical since it would provide answers to questions of how the millions of Ghana cedis entrusted with the Secretariat were managed, an issue assumed public interest since 2007.
Wielding the powers of a High Court to probe the activities of the Secretariat which have raised eyebrows, Commission has Justice Isaac Duose, a Court of Appeal Judge as Chairman, and Mr. O. T. Prempeh, a former Auditor-General and Ms. Marietta Brew Appiah-Oppong, a legal practitioner, as members.
The terms of reference of the Commission are to inquire into and report on allegations of improper use of public and any other funds; inquire into the use by the Secretariat of any movable and immovable property; inquire into any other matter which appears to be Commission to be incidental to or reasonable related to the Ghana@50 celebrations which in the opinion of the Commission ought to be enquired into; and to make recommendations in respect of the findings of fact of the Commission.
It will undertake public hearing where persons deemed relevant to the work of the Commission shall be invited for questioning. All witnesses called to give evidence are entitled to a legal counsel.
Mahama Ayariga, Presidential Spokesperson told a news conference at the Castle in Accra yesterday that the setting up of the Commission was in exercise of the powers conferred on the President under clause (1 a) of Article 278 of the Constitution.
He denied that it was a direct fall out of the marathon interrogation of Kwadwo Mpiani, former Chief of Staff in the past administration by the Bureau of National Investigations on a “wide range of issues” including the Ghana@50 Secretariat of which he was the supervising Minister, saying that “the Commission’s work is to address the sustained public quest for answers to the management of funds by the Secretariat.”
“This will offer all persons accused of dealing in financial malpractices relating to the work of the Secretariat to clear themselves,” he stated, He could not say exactly when the Commission was to finish its work and present a report, but noted that “the President expects them to work expeditiously.”
The Presidential Spokesperson hoped that all witnesses that were invited would cooperate with the Commission, so that the Commission could work within a reasonable time.
“The President will take the next step after receiving the Commission report,” he said, stressing that that next step would depend on the findings and recommendations of the Commission.
Revelations of alleged financial malfeasance at the Secretariat, which had Dr. Wereko Brobby as Chief Executive Officer, sparked public outcry last January when the government transition team took stock of the transactions and accounts of the Secretariat.
An interim Auditor-General’s Report on the transactions of the Secretariat presented to the transition team cited huge financial irregularities and poor accounting systems undertaking by the Secretariat, which among other things oversaw the purchase of luxury vehicles and building of plush houses for use by dignitaries that attendance the country’s independence anniversary.
On receiving the transition team’s report in March, President Mills promised to scrutinize it and cause investigations into matters that required clarifications.
During the transition team’s work, both embattled Mr. Mpiani and Dr. Wereko-Brobby denied any wrongdoing and indicated their readiness to appear before any investigative body.
Coca-Cola launches fruit Juice
By Edmund Mingle
The Coca Cola Company, at the weekend unveiled an addition to its brand with the introduction of “Minute Maid” fruit juice onto the Ghanaian beverage market.
The launch of the product marks the Coca-Cola’s branch into the production of fruit juice in Ghana.
Minute Maid, which is the company’s flagship juice brand, comes in cans and paper boxes in a range of flavours.
According to the company, the product is rich in calcium and vitamins that enhances the immune system.
Launching the product, Ms. Hannah Tetteh, Minister of Trade and Industry, commended the Coca-Cola for the investment, and especially for choosing to produce fruit juice in Ghana.
That, he said was laudable because the company would make good use of local raw materials that would go along way provide ready market for fruit farmers.
“This is a good addition to the food and beverage market,” she said, noting that the presence of the product in Ghana, would enhance the competition on the beverage industry.
She urged the company to ensure high safety standards in the production of the drink, and continue to be responsive to customer demands.
In addition, the Minister assured the company of the government’s cooperation to ensure the success of its investment which the economy stands to benefit from.
Phillipe Ayivor, Franchise Manager of Coca-Cola Equatorial Africa, explained that the drink comes in three kinds-Apple, Orange and Breakfast blend (a combination of juices).
The brand, he said was introduced in 1946 in the United States, making it one of the oldest commercially produced fruit juice in the world.
The Coca Cola Company, at the weekend unveiled an addition to its brand with the introduction of “Minute Maid” fruit juice onto the Ghanaian beverage market.
The launch of the product marks the Coca-Cola’s branch into the production of fruit juice in Ghana.
Minute Maid, which is the company’s flagship juice brand, comes in cans and paper boxes in a range of flavours.
According to the company, the product is rich in calcium and vitamins that enhances the immune system.
Launching the product, Ms. Hannah Tetteh, Minister of Trade and Industry, commended the Coca-Cola for the investment, and especially for choosing to produce fruit juice in Ghana.
That, he said was laudable because the company would make good use of local raw materials that would go along way provide ready market for fruit farmers.
“This is a good addition to the food and beverage market,” she said, noting that the presence of the product in Ghana, would enhance the competition on the beverage industry.
She urged the company to ensure high safety standards in the production of the drink, and continue to be responsive to customer demands.
In addition, the Minister assured the company of the government’s cooperation to ensure the success of its investment which the economy stands to benefit from.
Phillipe Ayivor, Franchise Manager of Coca-Cola Equatorial Africa, explained that the drink comes in three kinds-Apple, Orange and Breakfast blend (a combination of juices).
The brand, he said was introduced in 1946 in the United States, making it one of the oldest commercially produced fruit juice in the world.
30% cut in Govt. Fuel
By Edmund Mingle
The government has directed a 30 per cent cut in the fuel consumption by Ministries, Departments and Agencies as part of measures to reduce its fuel cost.
In addition, all government vehicles are to properly labeled “GV,” for easy identification, a move which the government believes would prevent the misuse of state vehicles.
Mrs. Zita Okaikoi, Minister of Information, explaining the rationale behind the cut to the Times on telephone yesterday, said that with the measure, government hoped to spend much less revenue on fuel consumption.
The move comes after the announcement of a 30 per cent increase in prices of petroleum products at the weekend.
According to her, it was advisable for the government institutions to have reduced fuel that could be effectively managed than abundant fuel that is abused by the government She explained that cut in the fuel consumption which will affect public officials, would ensure judicious use of the commodity.
She said government functionaries have a duty to manage and save fuel as the increases in fuel prices has pushed people into adopting effective fuel management practices.
With regard to the labeling of the government vehicles, she it was part of efforts to ensure that government vehicles were used for official duties and not private purposes by government officials.
She was optimistic that the measures would inure to the benefit of Ghanaians in that the revenue that would be saved from the fuel consumption cut could be used to invest in the provision of social amenities.
"There have been instances in the past when government vehicles have been used for private and unofficial functions like funerals, parties and church services among others,” she said.
The government has directed a 30 per cent cut in the fuel consumption by Ministries, Departments and Agencies as part of measures to reduce its fuel cost.
In addition, all government vehicles are to properly labeled “GV,” for easy identification, a move which the government believes would prevent the misuse of state vehicles.
Mrs. Zita Okaikoi, Minister of Information, explaining the rationale behind the cut to the Times on telephone yesterday, said that with the measure, government hoped to spend much less revenue on fuel consumption.
The move comes after the announcement of a 30 per cent increase in prices of petroleum products at the weekend.
According to her, it was advisable for the government institutions to have reduced fuel that could be effectively managed than abundant fuel that is abused by the government She explained that cut in the fuel consumption which will affect public officials, would ensure judicious use of the commodity.
She said government functionaries have a duty to manage and save fuel as the increases in fuel prices has pushed people into adopting effective fuel management practices.
With regard to the labeling of the government vehicles, she it was part of efforts to ensure that government vehicles were used for official duties and not private purposes by government officials.
She was optimistic that the measures would inure to the benefit of Ghanaians in that the revenue that would be saved from the fuel consumption cut could be used to invest in the provision of social amenities.
"There have been instances in the past when government vehicles have been used for private and unofficial functions like funerals, parties and church services among others,” she said.
President commends Newmont, but.
By Edmund Mingle
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday lauded the increasing investment by Newmont Mining Corporation in Ghana, but cautioned the company to ensure that the outcome of the investments become meaningful and beneficial to Ghanaians.
He also encouraged the company, which is one of the largest mining firms in Ghana, to be highly responsible to its social responsibility as to address the challenges mining communities face as a result of mining operations.
President Mill, who said these when Richard O’Brien, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newmont Mining Corporation, led the executives of the company to call on him at the Castle in Accra, assured the company of government’s collaboration for their success of their operations in Ghana.
He said in view of the global financial crisis which is affecting developing economies, he said he said the government would not hesitate to dialogue with Newmont and other companies in the business sector to ensure smooth operations, while protecting the interests of Ghanaians.
“The situation requires continuous dialogue and interactions to see how we can move the economy ahead,” he said.
President Mills welcome the Newmont boss to Ghana and was optimistic that his visist would be beneficial in enhancing their relationship with communities they operate in locally.
Mr. O’Brien, for his part, gave assurance that the firm was committed to its social responsibilities, and cited a number of community projects the company was engaged in to improve the livelihood of the community members.
He commended the government for providing a congenial business atmosphere, and promised that that Newmont would continue to cooperate with the government as well as work within the framework of the law.
Mr. O’Brien told newsmen after a closed door meeting with the President, that the company has invested some 207million dollars over the years in its operations in Ghana, adding that about 90 per cent of their revenue was re-invested in Ghana.
Also at the Castle to see President Mills were the executives of Sunshine Technology Group, a commercial forestry and bio-fuel development firm based in South Africa.
Kevin Cazelet, Chief Executive of the Company, told newsmen after a closed door meeting with the President that, they had fruitful discussions on the forestry management and bio-fuel production prospects in the country.
END
President John Evans Atta Mills yesterday lauded the increasing investment by Newmont Mining Corporation in Ghana, but cautioned the company to ensure that the outcome of the investments become meaningful and beneficial to Ghanaians.
He also encouraged the company, which is one of the largest mining firms in Ghana, to be highly responsible to its social responsibility as to address the challenges mining communities face as a result of mining operations.
President Mill, who said these when Richard O’Brien, President and Chief Executive Officer of Newmont Mining Corporation, led the executives of the company to call on him at the Castle in Accra, assured the company of government’s collaboration for their success of their operations in Ghana.
He said in view of the global financial crisis which is affecting developing economies, he said he said the government would not hesitate to dialogue with Newmont and other companies in the business sector to ensure smooth operations, while protecting the interests of Ghanaians.
“The situation requires continuous dialogue and interactions to see how we can move the economy ahead,” he said.
President Mills welcome the Newmont boss to Ghana and was optimistic that his visist would be beneficial in enhancing their relationship with communities they operate in locally.
Mr. O’Brien, for his part, gave assurance that the firm was committed to its social responsibilities, and cited a number of community projects the company was engaged in to improve the livelihood of the community members.
He commended the government for providing a congenial business atmosphere, and promised that that Newmont would continue to cooperate with the government as well as work within the framework of the law.
Mr. O’Brien told newsmen after a closed door meeting with the President, that the company has invested some 207million dollars over the years in its operations in Ghana, adding that about 90 per cent of their revenue was re-invested in Ghana.
Also at the Castle to see President Mills were the executives of Sunshine Technology Group, a commercial forestry and bio-fuel development firm based in South Africa.
Kevin Cazelet, Chief Executive of the Company, told newsmen after a closed door meeting with the President that, they had fruitful discussions on the forestry management and bio-fuel production prospects in the country.
END
President warns MMDCEs
By Edmund Mingle
The President, John Evans Atta Mills yesterday cautioned Chief Executives of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies against misuse of resources, warning that he will not hesitate dismissing those found mismanaging state resources to the detriment of the people.
“No one has monopoly over the position, and if anybody is found wanting in the judicious use of resources, I will not hesitate to remove that person,” he told an assembly of all the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Accra.
Opening a five day orientation to equip the chief executives for the job, President Mills asked also asked the MMDCEs, who are his representatives at the district level, to be responsive to need and aspirations of the people at the grassroots.
Speaking frankly, President Mills pointed out that the MMDCEs should not think that their appointment was to compensate or reward them for been members of the National Democratic Congress, saying they were appointed on merit and based on their ability to manage their respective areas.
“You have to approach your assignment with urgency,” he said, reminding them that Ghanaians were waiting to see the change for a better Ghana the government promised.
He urged them to be innovative in address the development challenges facing their respective areas, observing the need for them also accommodate all views and work with the established structures.
As an advocate of accountability and transparency, President Mills asked his men to uphold those principles in their management activities, as well as operate an open administration.
“Remember that you are the interface between central government and the people,” he said, and therefore asked them to ensure that the community people have unrestricted access to their office through which the MMDCEs could become more conversant with the needs of the communities they oversee.
Recognising that the districts needed resources to operate, President Mills assured the MMDCEs of the provision of adequate resources from central to enable them to work effectively.
He congratulated them on their nomination and confirmation for the positions, and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them.
Joseph Yieleh-Chireh, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, in his welcome address, also encouraged the chief executives to exhibit good leadership qualities and eschew arrogance in their dealings with the people they have been appointed to serve.
“Your actions and inactions will have either a positive or negative effect on the image of the government,” he told them, and urged them to make a positive difference in their respective areas.
The orientation programme, which had the theme, “Chief Executives as agents of change in participatory local development,” would educate the 170 MMDCEs on the rudiments of local government administration, operations of the district assembly common fund, resource mobilsation and revenue generation, as well as how MMDCEs relate with their Members of Parliament.
The President, John Evans Atta Mills yesterday cautioned Chief Executives of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies against misuse of resources, warning that he will not hesitate dismissing those found mismanaging state resources to the detriment of the people.
“No one has monopoly over the position, and if anybody is found wanting in the judicious use of resources, I will not hesitate to remove that person,” he told an assembly of all the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) in Accra.
Opening a five day orientation to equip the chief executives for the job, President Mills asked also asked the MMDCEs, who are his representatives at the district level, to be responsive to need and aspirations of the people at the grassroots.
Speaking frankly, President Mills pointed out that the MMDCEs should not think that their appointment was to compensate or reward them for been members of the National Democratic Congress, saying they were appointed on merit and based on their ability to manage their respective areas.
“You have to approach your assignment with urgency,” he said, reminding them that Ghanaians were waiting to see the change for a better Ghana the government promised.
He urged them to be innovative in address the development challenges facing their respective areas, observing the need for them also accommodate all views and work with the established structures.
As an advocate of accountability and transparency, President Mills asked his men to uphold those principles in their management activities, as well as operate an open administration.
“Remember that you are the interface between central government and the people,” he said, and therefore asked them to ensure that the community people have unrestricted access to their office through which the MMDCEs could become more conversant with the needs of the communities they oversee.
Recognising that the districts needed resources to operate, President Mills assured the MMDCEs of the provision of adequate resources from central to enable them to work effectively.
He congratulated them on their nomination and confirmation for the positions, and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them.
Joseph Yieleh-Chireh, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, in his welcome address, also encouraged the chief executives to exhibit good leadership qualities and eschew arrogance in their dealings with the people they have been appointed to serve.
“Your actions and inactions will have either a positive or negative effect on the image of the government,” he told them, and urged them to make a positive difference in their respective areas.
The orientation programme, which had the theme, “Chief Executives as agents of change in participatory local development,” would educate the 170 MMDCEs on the rudiments of local government administration, operations of the district assembly common fund, resource mobilsation and revenue generation, as well as how MMDCEs relate with their Members of Parliament.
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