Denkyembour District Assembly

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY HOLDS SPORTS AND CULTURE SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING

The Sports and Culture Subcommittee of the Denkyembour District Assembly held a meeting on Wednesday, 25th February 2026, to deliberate on matters relating to sports development within the district. The meeting was chaired by Honorable Asante Kennedy, Chairman of the Subcommittee. Members present included representatives from the Assembly and relevant stakeholders. The meeting followed the standard order of proceedings, including opening remarks, reading and discussion of previous minutes, discussion of the main agenda, and any other business.

In his opening remarks, Honorable Asante Kennedy welcomed members and expressed appreciation for their continuous commitment to the development of sports and cultural activities in the district. He emphasized the importance of sports in promoting unity, discipline, and healthy living among students and the youth. He noted that the upcoming inter-circuit sporting events present an opportunity for the district to nurture young talents and enhance its performance at higher levels of competition. He therefore encouraged members to actively contribute ideas on how the Assembly could effectively support the event.

The minutes of the previous meeting were read to members for their review. After careful deliberations and minor corrections, the minutes were adopted as a true and accurate record of the previous meeting. Matters arising from the previous minutes were also discussed, and members were updated on the progress made on earlier decisions.

The main agenda focused on preparations towards the upcoming inter-circuit sporting events within the district. Members discussed the importance of the event in identifying and developing sporting talents at the basic school level. The committee considered ways the Assembly could support the successful organization of the event, particularly through the provision of funds and sporting equipment. It was noted that many schools lack adequate sporting equipment, which affects effective training and participation. Members therefore proposed that the Assembly support the event by providing essential items such as footballs, jerseys, bibs, whistles, and other basic sporting materials. The committee also recommended that the Assembly consider allocating funds to assist in the organization of the event, including logistics and other related expenses.

In his closing remarks, Honorable Asante Kennedy thanked members for their active participation and valuable contributions. He assured members that the recommendations of the subcommittee would be forwarded to the appropriate authorities of the Assembly for consideration and necessary action. He encouraged members to remain committed to promoting sports and cultural development in the district. The meeting was then brought to a close.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY HOLDS FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATON SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING

On Tuesday 17th February 2026, the Finance and Administration Sub-Committee of the Denkyembour District Assembly convened a meeting subsequent to the earlier Budget Committee sitting to deliberate on key financial and administrative matters affecting the Assembly.

The meeting was chaired by Hon. Vincent Akorli, Chairman of the Sub-Committee, who delivered the opening remarks. In his address, he welcomed members and emphasized the critical role of the Sub-Committee in ensuring sound financial management, administrative efficiency, and strict adherence to established public financial management regulations. He urged members to approach discussions with diligence and objectivity in the interest of the district’s development.

The District Budget Analyst, Mr. Samuel Oppong Ampoma, presented a comprehensive report on the Assembly’s budget performance and projections. The subcommittee reviewed the implementation status of the 2025 Composite Budget and assessed revenue and expenditure performance. He presented a detailed report indicating a moderate improvement in Internally Generated Funds (IGF), largely attributed to intensified property rate collection and business operating permit enforcement. The assembly was able to realize a revenue of GHC 2,141,363.12 out of a budget of GC 2,070,000.00 which represents 103%. The assembly also received DACF of GHC 9,685,058.39 out of budgeted amount of GHC 19,947,830.00

In terms of expenditure, priority spending in 2025 focused on health, water, education, sanitation, and road maintenance within the district. While some infrastructure projects progressed steadily, others experienced setbacks due to procurement delays and late disbursement of funds. The Committee commended departments that met or exceeded their performance targets and encouraged improved efficiency and compliance among all spending units.

Members of the Sub-Committee engaged in extensive discussions on strategies to enhance revenue mobilization and administrative efficiency. Key recommendations included the digitization of revenue collection systems to minimize leakages, broadening the revenue database to capture emerging businesses especially within mining communities and intensifying supervision of revenue collectors. The Sub-Committee also underscored the importance of collaboration with traditional authorities and stakeholders to improve compliance in property rate payments.

The meeting further discussed priority focus areas for the 2026 fiscal year, aligning them with the Assembly’s Medium-Term Development Plan. These include infrastructure development in mining-affected communities, improvement in sanitation services, expansion of educational facilities, youth employment and skills training initiatives, and support for agriculture and alternative livelihood programs. Members reiterated the need to balance community expectations with the district’s fiscal capacity.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Vincent Akorli commended the District Budget Analyst for the detailed presentation and thanked members for their constructive contributions. He emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management in achieving the Assembly’s development objectives. He encouraged continuous monitoring and periodic reviews to ensure that decisions taken translate into measurable improvements in service delivery within the Denkyembour District. The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by members to support effective financial governance and sustainable development.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY IN COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL YOUTH AUTHORITY DISTRIBUTES ITEMS TO ARTISANS.

The Denkyembour District Assembly, in collaboration with the National Youth Authority (NYA), on Thursday, 12th February 2026, organized a distribution exercise under the National Apprenticeship Program at the District Assembly premises. The initiative formed part of the government's broader strategy to empower the youth through skills development and entrepreneurship, particularly within the informal sector.

The program brought together beneficiaries drawn from various artisanal trades across the district, including dressmaking, hairdressing and styling, masonry, tiling, and carpentry. Selected apprentices received essential working tools and equipment relevant to their respective trades to facilitate practical training and improve the quality of their work. The items distributed included sewing machines and accessories for dressmakers, hair dryers and styling kits for hairdressers, as well as masonry, tiling, and carpentry tools for construction-related trainees.

In addition to the provision of equipment, the National Apprenticeship Program also covers the payment of training fees to master craftspersons. These costs, which are typically borne by apprentices and their families, were absorbed under the program to reduce the financial burden on beneficiaries and promote equal access to vocational skills training. This intervention is expected to encourage more young people to enroll in artisanal training and complete their apprenticeship successfully.

Addressing participants at the event, the District Chief Executive for Denkyembour District, Honorable Umar Ahmed Tutu, and representatives of the National Youth Authority emphasized the importance of skills acquisition in tackling youth unemployment and promoting self-reliance. They encouraged beneficiaries to take their training seriously, make good use of the tools provided, and strive for excellence in their chosen professions. The officials further assured the artisans of the Assembly’s continued support in creating an enabling environment for youth development and enterprise growth within the district.

The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Government, the National Youth Authority, and the District Assembly for the timely support. They noted that the equipment and financial assistance would significantly ease their training process and enhance their productivity.

The distribution exercise was successfully conducted, with all identified beneficiaries receiving their allocated items. The initiative is expected to contribute meaningfully to skills development, job creation, and economic empowerment in the Denkyembour District.

EDUCATIONS AND ASPIRATIONS HUB ORGANIZES THREE-DAY ROBOTICS AND DIGITAL SKILLS TRAINING (RODIST) IN DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT

The Education and Aspirations Hub, in collaboration with Firefly IO, successfully organized a three-day Robotics and Digital Skills Training (RODIST) Initiative at the Denkyembour District Assembly Hall from 12th to 14th February 2026. The initiative was designed to equip young people within the Denkyembour District with practical digital and technological skills, promote innovation, and prepare participants for opportunities within the rapidly evolving digital economy. The programme was officially opened by the District Chief Executive, who reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and digital transformation.

The training brought together a diverse group of young participants from across the district, including students and technology enthusiasts who demonstrated keen interest and enthusiasm throughout the sessions. Facilitators from Firefly IO led the technical sessions with support from the Education and Aspirations Hub team, adopting an interactive and hands-on approach to ensure effective learning and participation.

During the training, participants were introduced to foundational concepts in robotics, including the components of a robot, sensors, actuators, and basic programming logic. They worked in teams to assemble simple robotic systems and understand how different parts interact to produce automated functions. The practical sessions enabled learners to translate theory into real-world application, strengthening their understanding of automation and technological problem-solving.

In addition to robotics, participants received practical training in electrical systems and circuitry. They were introduced to essential electrical components such as resistors, LEDs, switches, and power sources, and were guided through the process of building simple circuits using breadboards. The sessions also covered basic principles of voltage and current, safety precautions, and troubleshooting techniques. This component of the training enhanced participants’ appreciation of the foundational role of electronics in robotics and digital systems.

The programme further included sessions on 3D designing and digital modelling, where participants were introduced to the fundamentals of computer-aided design (CAD) and digital prototyping. They learned basic design principles and created simple 3D models, gaining insight into how digital design tools are applied in engineering, manufacturing, and product development. The training also incorporated basic coding principles, computational thinking, teamwork, and digital creativity, encouraging participants to think critically about how technology can be used to solve local challenges within the Denkyembour District.

Overall, the three-day RODIST Initiative achieved its objectives by providing participants with foundational knowledge and practical exposure to robotics, electronics, 3D design, and other digital skills. Participants demonstrated improved confidence in handling technological tools and expressed strong interest in pursuing further studies and careers in STEM-related fields.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY HOLDS SOCIAL SERVICES SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING

The Social Services Sub-Committee of the Denkyembour District Assembly met on Thursday, 12th February 2026, at the District Assembly Conference Hall. The meeting was attended by the Chairperson and Honourable Members of the Sub-Committee, as well as Heads of Department and other key stakeholders within the social services sector.

In her opening remarks, the Chairperson, Honorable Mary Luka welcomed members and underscored the importance of coordinated social service delivery in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups within the district. She urged members to actively participate in discussions and contribute meaningfully towards strengthening social protection systems in the district.

The main agenda item for the meeting was a briefing on the Integrated Social Services (ISS) Programme, which the Denkyembour District has recently been rolled onto for the first time. The District Social Welfare Officer took members through the objectives, structure, and operational framework of the ISS Programme. The Committee was informed that the ISS Programme is a government-led initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in collaboration with the Office of the Head of Local Government Service to enhance inter-sectorial coordination in the delivery of social services.

The Programme seeks to strengthen collaboration among departments such as Social Welfare and Community Development, Health, Education, and the Security Services to ensure that vulnerable children and families receive comprehensive and timely support.

Members were briefed on the roles of the Sub-Committee under the ISS framework, particularly in supporting policy direction, monitoring implementation at the district level, and promoting effective referrals and case management. The Committee welcomed the initiative and pledged its support to ensure its successful implementation within the district.

The District Director of Health also briefed the Committee on the Well-Label Data Set Programme. He explained that the programme is aimed at improving data quality, accuracy, and reporting within the health sector to support evidence-based planning and decision-making. The initiative is expected to enhance monitoring of health indicators, improve service delivery outcomes, and strengthen collaboration between the Health Directorate and other social sector departments. Members commended the Health Directorate for the initiative and encouraged continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure data reliability and effective utilization of the information generated.

The Committee subsequently considered the proposed meeting schedule for the 2026 calendar year. After deliberations and minor adjustments, the schedule was unanimously approved. Members agreed to adhere strictly to the approved timetable to ensure timely discussions and oversight of social sector programs in the district.

In conclusion, the meeting reaffirmed the subcommittee's commitment to strengthening social services delivery in the Denkyembour District. Members expressed appreciation for the briefings provided and resolved to work collaboratively with all relevant departments to ensure the effective implementation of the ISS Programme and other social sector initiatives.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY HOLDS FIRST BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR 2026

The Denkyembour District Assembly held a Budget Committee meeting on Tuesday, 9th February 2026, at the District Assembly Hall in Akwatia. The meeting was convened in line with the Assembly’s statutory mandate to coordinate planning and budgeting processes to ensure effective local governance and service delivery. It was chaired by the District Coordinating Director and attended by Heads of Departments and representatives of decentralized units.

The Committee reviewed the implementation status of the 2025 Composite Budget and assessed revenue and expenditure performance. The District Budget Analyst presented a detailed report indicating a moderate improvement in Internally Generated Funds (IGF), largely attributed to intensified property rate collection and business operating permit enforcement. The assembly was able to realize a revenue of GHC 2,141,363.12 out of a budget of GHC 2,070,000.00, which represents 103%. The assembly also received DACF of GHC 9,685,058.39 out of budgeted amount of GHC 19,947,830.00

In terms of expenditure, priority spending in 2025 focused on health, water, education, sanitation, and road maintenance within the district. While some infrastructure projects progressed steadily, others experienced setbacks due to procurement delays and late disbursement of funds. The Committee commended departments that met or exceeded their performance targets and encouraged improved efficiency and compliance among all spending units.

Discussions on the 2026 fiscal year projections centered on strengthening revenue mobilization strategies. Members emphasized expanding the district’s revenue database to capture new businesses, particularly those operating within mining communities, and strengthening supervision of revenue collectors. Engagement with traditional authorities and key stakeholders was identified as critical to improving property rate compliance across the district. The Committee further deliberated on priority development areas for 2026, aligning them with the Medium-Term Development Plan. Key focus areas include expansion of educational infrastructure in growing settlements, sanitation improvement initiatives, youth employment and skills development programs, and support for agriculture and alternative livelihood interventions to mitigate the socio-economic impact of mining activities.

Despite the positive outlook, the Committee acknowledged challenges such as inconsistent fund releases, inadequate logistics for revenue mobilization, rising operational costs due to inflationary pressures, and high community expectations amid limited fiscal space. Members stressed the need for prudent financial management, strict adherence to the Public Financial Management regulations, and improved inter-departmental coordination to maximize available resources.

At the close of the meeting, the Committee resolved to finalize revised departmental budget ceilings within one week, establish a task force to strengthen IGF mobilizations, and institute quarterly budget performance reviews to enhance accountability. The meeting reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to transparency, fiscal discipline, and sustainable development within the Denkyembour District.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY INAUGURATES THE DISTRICT AIDS COMMITTEE

On Thursday, 29th January 2026, the Denkyembour District Assembly inaugurated the District AIDS Committee (DAC) as part of efforts to strengthen the district’s response to HIV and AIDS. The programme was held at the Assembly premises and brought together members drawn from key decentralized departments, health services, faith-based organizations, traditional authorities, civil society groups, and representatives of persons living with HIV.

The inauguration ceremony was performed by the District Coordinating Director, who officially inducted members into office and charged them to work collaboratively to support the national vision of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of a multi-sectorial approach to HIV and AIDS interventions and encouraged members to actively participate in planning, advocacy, monitoring, and resource mobilization activities within the district.

The first presentation was delivered by the Department of Social Welfare and Community Development, which also serves as the HIV Focal Department at the district level. The presentation highlighted the legal basis for the establishment of the District AIDS Committee, with reference to the Ghana AIDS Commission Act, 2016 (Act 938). Members were taken through the goals and vision of the national HIV and AIDS policy, particularly the 95-95-95 fast-track targets aimed at achieving epidemic control. The composition and roles of the District AIDS Committee were explained, including coordination of HIV and AIDS activities, integration of HIV issues into the District Medium-Term Development Plan, advocacy and sensitization, monitoring and reporting, stakeholder engagement, and resource mobilization. The role of the District Response Management Team (DRMT) as a technical sub-committee responsible for monitoring programme implementation and providing strategic information was also outlined.

The department further presented the district’s HIV and AIDS work plan for 2026, outlining key intervention areas such as coordination and management, strategic information, advocacy, mitigation, and administration. Some achievements chalked up in previous years were shared, alongside challenges including stigmatization and inadequate funding for HIV and AIDS activities.

The second presentation was delivered by the District Health Directorate and focused on HIV-related health activities within the district. The presentation provided an overview of HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services, including activities related to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) and Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT). Members were briefed on ongoing public health interventions, data reporting, and the importance of collaboration between the Health Directorate and other stakeholders to improve service delivery.

The Health Directorate emphasized the need for sustained community sensitization, early testing, adherence to treatment, and reduction of stigma and discrimination against persons living with HIV. The presentation also highlighted the critical role of the District AIDS Committee in supporting health-led interventions through advocacy, coordination, and mobilization of resources.

The meeting successfully inaugurated the District AIDS Committee and adequately oriented members on their roles and responsibilities. Participants expressed appreciation for the informative presentations and reaffirmed their commitment to working together to strengthen HIV and AIDS interventions in the Denkyembour District. The meeting ended with a call on members to support the implementation of the 2026 HIV and AIDS work plan and to actively champion stigma reduction and community engagement across the district.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY’S CHILD PROTECTION COMMITTEE MEETS ON THE INTEGRATED SOCIAL SERVICES (ISS) PROGRAMME

The Child Protection Committee (CPC) of the Denkyembour District held its maiden meeting following its successful inauguration on Wednesday, 28th January 2026, at the District Assembly premises. The meeting brought together members of the Committee drawn from key decentralized departments, security agencies, traditional authorities, civil society organizations and other relevant stakeholders.

The meeting was convened to officially orient members on their roles and responsibilities and to deliberate on key child protection issues within the district. A major item on the agenda was a presentation and discussion on the Integrated Social Services (ISS) Programme, which the Denkyembour District has been enrolled onto for the first time.

Madam Janet Lah, the District Social Welfare Officer, led participants through an in-depth presentation on the ISS Programme. She explained that the ISS is a coordinated approach aimed at improving service delivery to vulnerable children and families through effective collaboration among departments such as Social Welfare, Community Development, Health, Education, the Ghana Police Service and other stakeholders. She indicated that the programme seeks to eliminate duplication of efforts, improve referral systems and ensure that vulnerable persons receive holistic and timely support.

Madam Lah further outlined the expectations of Committee members under the ISS framework. She emphasized the need for active participation, information sharing, confidentiality, timely reporting of child protection cases, and commitment to intersectoral collaboration. Members were encouraged to see themselves as frontline actors in identifying, referring and managing child protection cases within their respective institutions and communities.

Participants were also taken through the roles of the Child Protection Committee under the ISS arrangement, including case identification, referral, monitoring and follow-up, as well as community sensitization on child protection issues. Members were urged to support the Social Welfare Department to ensure the successful implementation of the programme in the district.

The meeting concluded with contributions and discussions from members, who expressed appreciation for the introduction of the ISS Programme and pledged their commitment to supporting its implementation. The Committee agreed to work collectively to strengthen child protection systems and improve the welfare of children and vulnerable families in the Denkyembour District.

DCE FOR DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT HANDS OVER CLASSROOM BLOCK PROJECT AT ST. ROSES SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL IN AKWATIA

On 22nd January 2026, the District Chief Executive for Denkyembour District, Honorable Umar Ahmed Tutu, and the Member of Parliament for Akwatia Constituency, Honorable Bernard Bediako Baidoo together with a team from the assembly visited St. Roses Senior High School, Akwatia, for the handing over of an abandoned classroom block project to a new contractor. The exercise formed part of efforts by the District Assembly and stakeholders to revive stalled educational infrastructure projects within the district.

The classroom block, which was initially awarded as a six (6) unit classroom block, had stalled for some time. Upon review, the project was re-awarded as a fifteen (15) unit classroom block to adequately address the growing infrastructure needs of the school. The expanded scope of the project is expected to significantly improve teaching and learning conditions at St. Roses Senior High School.

The administration of St. Roses SHS, together with the District Chief Executive (DCE) and the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, met with the contractor and project consultants at the school premises. A formal handing-over ceremony was then held to officially transfer the site to the contractor for commencement of works.

During the meeting, the contractor was briefed on the expectations of the school and stakeholders and was officially given nine (9) months to complete the project. The contractor assured the gathering of their readiness to mobilize to the site and execute the project according to specifications and within the stipulated timeframe.

The project is being funded by the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund). Stakeholders emphasized the need for strict adherence to project specifications, quality standards, and timelines to ensure value for money and timely delivery of the facility.

The ceremony ended with a call on all parties, including the school administration, consultants, and the District Assembly, to work collaboratively to ensure the successful completion of the project for the benefit of students and staff of St. Roses Senior High School.

DENKYEMBOUR DISTRICT ASSEMBLY INAUGURATES 29 BLUE WATER GUARDS IN THE DISTRICT

The Denkyembour District Assembly, in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, on 22nd January 2026, held an inaugural ceremony for twenty-nine (29) newly posted Blue Water Guards assigned to the district. The ceremony formed part of government’s broader efforts to protect water bodies and combat illegal mining activities (galamsey) within the district. The event brought together key stakeholders, traditional authorities, security agencies, departmental heads, and members of the public.

In his keynote address, the District Chief Executive (DCE), Honorable Umar Ahmed Tutu welcomed the Blue Water Guards to the district and congratulated them on their successful selection and deployment. He emphasized the importance of their role in safeguarding the district’s rivers and water sources, which are critical to the livelihoods and health of the people. The DCE assured the guards of the Assembly’s full support and urged them to discharge their duties with discipline, integrity, and respect for the law while working closely with the District Assembly and other state institutions.

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akwatia Constituency, Honorable Bernard Bediako Baidoo underscored the devastating impact of illegal mining on water bodies, farmlands, and public health within the constituency. He described the posting of the Blue Water Guards as a timely intervention and encouraged them to see their assignment as a national duty. The MP further called on communities to cooperate with the guards and pledged his continued advocacy for resources and policies that will strengthen environmental protection efforts in the district.

The Akwatia District Police Commander, in his address, assured the Blue Water Guards of the readiness of the Ghana Police Service to support their operations. He advised the guards to operate within the confines of the law and to prioritize intelligence gathering and reporting rather than confrontation. The Police Commander emphasized teamwork, professionalism, and effective collaboration between the guards and security agencies to ensure peace and safety while tackling illegal mining activities.

A representative from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources provided an overview of the Blue Water Guards initiative, highlighting its objectives, mandate, and expected outcomes. He reiterated that the guards are not a replacement for security agencies but are trained to monitor, protect, and report threats to water bodies. He encouraged the guards to uphold the values of accountability and patriotism, noting that their work is crucial to restoring Ghana’s polluted rivers and securing water resources for future generations.

The ceremony climaxed with a formal introduction of the Blue Water Guards to the district and a call on all stakeholders, including traditional leaders and community members, to support the initiative. The event marked an important milestone in Denkyembour District’s commitment to environmental protection and the fight against illegal mining.