The Strategic Youth Network for Development in partnership with Ga East and Akyem local assemblies have organized a training session for young people to effectively participate in local governance.
The workshop on the theme ‘Effective Youth Consultation on Climate Action in Ghana’ was held at Milklin Hotel in Accra.
The Development Planning Officer at Ga East Municipal Assembly, Mubeen Mohammed, advised participants that “decentralization is not a straightforward act as it is a gradual process” where national-level policies are not merely integrated into local assembly plans but are carefully analyzed.
Therefore, adopted policies are those that best align with the goals and objectives of the assemblies, subsequently being incorporated into their plans.
Mr Mohammed outlined some effective ways in engaging the district assemblies stating that “when addressing letters to the district assembly, it is essential to direct them to the District Chief Executive, ensuring awareness of the matter at hand. Additionally, it is crucial to identify the head of the department responsible for the activities or issues being addressed in the letter”.
He added that “engaging with them regarding the contents of the letter or providing them with a copy for their reference will facilitate effective follow-up, including coordination with the office of the DCE.”
The Biodiversity and Partnership lead of SYND, Mr Solomon Yamoah called for increased participation at the local level “to make a significant impact in your country”.
He added that young people need to “demonstrate knowledge and seize every opportunity no matter how small the platform or audience may be.”
The workshop ended with a call to action, urging young people to get involved in climate action at the local level.
