On Thursday, 4th July 2024, the Denkyembour District Assembly organized a one-day training workshop for all Assembly Members within the district. The workshop aimed to equip newly elected members with comprehensive knowledge of the Assembly system, the Local Government System, Model Standing Orders, and the Functions of the Assembly. This initiative was necessitated by the recent election of new Assembly Members and the subsequent inauguration of the 4th Assembly of the Denkyembour District Assembly.

The workshop saw full attendance from all newly elected Assembly Members. Key officials from the Denkyembour District Assembly, including the District Coordinating Director and various Heads of Departments were also present.

The workshop commenced with opening remarks by the District Coordinating Director, who highlighted the importance of the training for the effective functioning of the Assembly. He emphasized that understanding the Assembly system and local government structures is crucial for making informed decisions that benefit the district.

The workshop was divided into two main sessions, each focusing on different aspects of the Assembly and local governance. The resource person for the training, Mr Samuel Oppong Ampoma who doubles as the District Budget Analyst began with the structure and functions of the Assembly, the roles of various committees, and the legislative framework governing the Assembly’s operations. He continued with the overview of the local government system in Ghana, the decentralization process, and the relationship between the central government and local assemblies. He concluded the training with an enhanced knowledge of the local government system, enabling members to better navigate their roles and responsibilities.

Members gained a clear understanding of the Assembly’s organizational structure and their roles within it. Also, they were well-informed about the procedural rules and ethical standards expected of them and also understood their functional duties and the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving the district’s development goals.

Each session included interactive discussions, where members had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in practical exercises. These interactions facilitated a deeper understanding of the topics covered and allowed members to clarify any doubts.

The second session of the training was led by the District RTI Officer; Mr Solomon Ofosu. He took the house through the Right-To-Information Act. He highlighted on the importance of the Act, Right to Access, and Responsibilities of Public Institutions in respect to Access, Application to Access Information, Exempt Information, Processing and Decision on Application, Referral/Transfer of Application, Refusal of Application and Application for Review.

The workshop concluded with closing remarks from the District Information Officer; Mr Elvis Offei-Bekoe, who expressed gratitude to the facilitators and participants on behalf of management of the assembly for their active involvement. He reiterated the significance of the training in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the Assembly’s operations.