The Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC) continues its mission to ensure transparency and accountability in managing Ghana’s petroleum revenues, engaging communities nationwide. This week, the spotlight turned to the North Dayi District, where PIAC held town hall meetings to discuss the district’s share of petroleum oil-funded projects and their impact on local development.
The meeting, which was well-attended by residents, traditional leaders, assembly members, and other key stakeholders, provided a platform for open dialogue on the use of petroleum oil revenues in the district. The sessions were led by Mr. Richard Elimaah, a member of PIAC, who guided and moderated discussions and responded to inquiries from the community.
During a project inspection tour, Mr Ellimah and his team assessed several petroleum-funded projects within the district. The infrastructural projects include the construction of an Art gallery in the North Dayi, Vakpo, and the construction of pavement in the Anfoega Market in North Dayi District among others.
The inspection tour was not just an opportunity to evaluate the progress and quality of these projects but also to ensure that the funds allocated were being utilized effectively and for the intended purposes.
In his remarks, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for North Dayi, Edmond Kudjo Attah, commended PIAC for its dedication to holding authorities accountable in the management of petroleum revenues.
He emphasized that all petroleum-funded projects are intended to benefit the public, and it is essential that these resources are used wisely and responsibly.
Mr Attah highlighted the importance of PIAC’s work in ensuring that these projects meet the needs of the people and contribute to the overall development of the district.
“PIAC’s role in promoting transparency and accountability in petroleum revenue management is invaluable. We, as a district, are committed to ensuring that these projects are completed to the highest standards and that they serve the needs of our people,” Mr Attah stated.
He urged the residents to actively engage with the PIAC team during their visit, stressing that PIAC is an independent institution dedicated to serving the interests of all Ghanaians.
The DCE also called on chiefs, Assembly members, and other community leaders to disseminate the information shared during the meetings to their respective communities. He emphasized that informed citizens are better equipped to hold their leaders accountable, which is crucial for the sustainable development of the district.
Some residents of North Dayi expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage directly with PIAC and voiced their concerns and suggestions regarding the ongoing projects. The discussions underscored the need for continuous dialogue between government institutions, independent bodies like PIAC, and the communities they serve.
As PIAC continues its nationwide tour, the feedback and insights gathered from districts like North Dayi will play a critical role in shaping future policies and ensuring that oil revenues are managed in a way that benefits all Ghanaians.
The committee’s work in promoting transparency, accountability, and public participation in petroleum revenue management remains a cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic governance.
SOURCE: MYJOYONLINE