The Ho Municipal Assembly has successfully conducted a comprehensive public hearing to validate its Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) for the period 2026–2029, in alignment with the government’s new Agenda Reset policy framework.
The public hearing formed part of the statutory requirements under the National Development Planning System, marking the final stage of a participatory planning process that began with extensive zonal consultations across the municipality.
The process sought to capture the genuine development priorities and aspirations of communities to ensure that the new plan remains responsive and demand-driven.
The Municipal Planning Officer, John Ntibre, said the participatory and inclusive approach was adopted throughout the planning process.
“We have gone through the zonal councils, gathering what the people desire over the next four years. As a municipal planning and coordinating unit, we have compiled these documents, and today’s public hearing provides the opportunity to validate them with all key stakeholders.”
The hearing brought together traditional authorities, heads of departments, market women, artisans, persons with disabilities (PWDs), opinion leaders, NGOs, unit committee members, and representatives from the Regional Economic Planning Office.
Mr Ntibre stated that the Assembly had so far received over 80 per cent of its Common Fund allocation for the year, with more than GH¢6 million earmarked for the implementation of priority projects.
“We have already opened tenders for about 11 projects, and evaluation will close by 20th November 2025. Some of these projects will roll over into the 2026 annual action plan, as we may not complete all within the next month and a half.”
He further underscored the importance of effective monitoring and evaluation in ensuring the sustainability of development interventions, stressing that communities must take ownership of projects implemented in their areas.
“If communities truly want these projects, they must own and sustain them. The plans are for all of us, not just the Assembly, and once completed, they should be communicated widely, including through online platforms for everyone’s benefit.”
With inputs and comments from the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) already incorporated, the Ho Municipal Assembly is expected to submit the final document for approval and implementation beginning January 2026 through December 2029.
The new plan is expected to serve as the blueprint for guiding development priorities within the municipality over the next four years, ensuring alignment with both regional and national development goals.
By: Daniel Orlando/newsalertgh.com
