The Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, has raised concerns over the management of data on persons with disabilities by the Adentan Municipal Assembly after assessors discovered that records presented during an accountability assessment dated back to 2020, despite claims that updated information from 2024 was available.
The concern emerged during the District Accountability Series conducted by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs at the Assembly. Assessors questioned why outdated records were submitted for review, stressing the importance of maintaining accurate and current data to ensure support reaches the intended beneficiaries.
Speaking after the assessment visit, Rita Naa Odoley Sowah said the Assembly had been directed to submit the updated 2024 records for verification and proper accountability in the administration of support programmes for persons with disabilities.
She emphasized that accurate data is critical in ensuring that resources allocated through the District Assemblies Common Fund benefit genuine recipients within the municipality.
Despite the concerns over data management, the Deputy Minister commended the Assembly for its efforts in supporting persons with disabilities. During the visit, she observed the distribution of deep freezers, polytanks, sewing machines, and other livelihood support items to beneficiaries. Some persons with disabilities are also receiving educational assistance through the payment of school fees.
The Deputy Minister further praised the Assembly’s performance in sanitation management, particularly its initiative to recycle plastic waste into products such as pillows and bags. She encouraged officials to expand the programme into residential communities to enhance waste management and environmental cleanliness.
The assessment also highlighted a number of development projects undertaken by the Assembly, including the construction of kindergarten facilities, classroom blocks, a maternity block, and accommodation for health workers.
The District Accountability Series forms part of efforts by the Ministry to evaluate the performance of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies and promote transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery at the local level.
