By: Hamza Lansah Lolly/Baba Mohammed Issahak
The Finance Minister of Ghana, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson today assured Parliament of the government’s renewed commitment to decentralisation and fiscal responsibility through substantial transfers to statutory funds.
Delivering a statement in Parliament, Dr Ato Forson announced that nearly GHS988 million had been released as the first quarter payment to the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF). For the first time in years, 80% of DACF funds will go directly to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), a sharp increase from the 40–50% disbursed under previous administrations.
Briefing parliament earlier today, Dr Ato Forson credited President John Dramani Mahama’s administration for reversing what he described as “the unfortunate decentralisation” of local government finances over the past eight years.
“These funds are critical to revitalising local economies and delivering development where it matters most,” Dr Ato Forson said.
He outlined detailed spending guidelines approved by the Cabinet. Notably, 25% of DACF funds will support 24-hour economy model markets, while other portions are earmarked for health facilities, schools, boreholes, sanitation, furniture, administration, and legacy project completion.
In addition, the Minister reported full and timely disbursements to other key statutory funds. The National Health Insurance Fund received GHS2.03 billion, enabling it to clear arrears and support new programmes like Mahama Care. The Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) received over GHS2.71 billion, now covering all expenses for the Free SHS programme, including student feeding.
“These payments reflect our unwavering commitment to meet all statutory obligations,” the Minister affirmed, calling on MPs and other government officials to monitor fund usage in the various MMDAs closely
