Overview of the MTDP Public Hearing
The Ketu North Municipal Assembly conducted a public hearing on its Draft Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) for 2026–2029 in Dzodze, signaling a serious commitment to transparent, participatory governance. Local residents, civil society groups, and stakeholders gathered to review the plan, share feedback, and ask questions about how resources will be allocated to drive inclusive growth over the next four years.
Purpose and Process
The MTDP is a key instrument for translating development visions into actionable projects. By convening a public hearing, the Ketu North Assembly aims to ensure that the plan reflects the needs and priorities of community members. The process typically involves presenting the draft MTDP, outlining project proposals, budgets, and timelines, followed by a section for public submissions and questions.
Principles of Inclusive Development
Officials emphasized inclusivity as a guiding principle. The draft MTDP reportedly focuses on improving infrastructure, social services, and local economy while promoting accountability and citizen participation. The hearing provided residents with an avenue to express concerns about flooding, access roads, waste management, education, healthcare, and job creation, ensuring no group is left behind in the district’s development trajectory.
Key Focus Areas in the Draft MTDP
While specifics vary, typical MTDP components in the region include:
- Road networks and rural access improvements to connect communities with markets and services.
- Water and sanitation enhancements to address public health and environmental sustainability.
- Educational and healthcare facility upgrades to boost human capital development.
- Sustainable economic activities, including agriculture value chains and small-scale enterprise support.
- Job creation initiatives, youth empowerment, and capacity-building programs.
Audience feedback during the hearing highlighted the need for effective maintenance of existing infrastructure, transparency in procurement, and clear timelines for project delivery. The assembly encouraged residents to submit written comments to ensure their suggestions are formally considered in finalizing the MTDP.
Budgetary and Accountability Considerations
Transparency around funding sources, cost estimates, and oversight mechanisms was a major theme. Stakeholders asked how the district intends to finance major projects, whether through local revenue mobilization, grants, or partnerships with development partners. They also pressed for robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress and prevent delays or cost overruns.
Role of Community Participation
Community participation is central to the MTDP process. The Dzodze gathering underscored the value of grassroots input in identifying priorities and ensuring projects deliver tangible benefits to residents. Local leaders encouraged ongoing engagement through public forums, district assembly sessions, and timely dissemination of information so residents remain informed about progress and changes.
Next Steps
Following the public hearing, the Ketu North Municipal Assembly will refine the MTDP draft, integrating stakeholder feedback. The updated plan will then undergo formal approval processes within the assembly and relevant governmental channels. If approved, the MTDP 2026–2029 will guide budget allocations, project implementation, and performance reporting in the coming years.
Impact on Residents
For residents, the MTDP represents a concrete blueprint for development with a focus on accessibility, accountability, and sustainable growth. When effectively implemented, the plan can translate into improved roads, better water supply, upgraded schools and clinics, and broader economic opportunities—contributing to a more resilient and prosperous Ketu North.
As the district moves toward finalizing and implementing the MTDP, officials reiterate their commitment to citizen-centered governance. Citizens are invited to continue engaging with the process, ensuring that development remains aligned with local needs and shared aspirations.
