The Political Inclusion and Consensus Building project seeks to strengthen Ghana’s democratic governance by promoting dialogue, cooperation, and inclusive decision-making among political parties and Parliament. Implemented by the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs (ACEPA) in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs FDFA, the project focuses on supporting political party leaders, youth, women, and parliamentary institutions to play constructive roles in reducing political tensions.
For new initiatives, let’s spotlight UNICEF and SWISS. Even though the formal launch for SWIIS happened this year, we started the project last year. We can provide brief narratives for the two projects.
Overall Objective
To strengthen accountable, inclusive, and data-driven local governance in Ghana by enhancing institutional capacity, improving local data systems, and strengthening transparent and equitable local revenue mobilisation.
Specific Objectives
1. Strengthen the capacity of Assembly Members and MMDA actors.
2. Improve the availability and use of disaggregated local data.
3. Enhance transparency and accountability in IGF mobilisation.
4. Promote inclusive participation and social accountability.
Target Groups
Assembly Members and MMDA officials; planning, budget and finance committees; civil society organisations; and citizens, with attention to women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised groups.
Key Activities
1. Capacity-building programmes for Assembly Members and committees on mandates, planning and budgeting cycles, and oversight functions.
2. Support for the development and use of local data systems for property valuation, business registration, and community needs assessment.
3. Introduction or strengthening of digital and low-human-interface revenue collection and tracking mechanisms.
4. Support to accountability and transparency initiatives, including citizen engagement, public reporting on local revenues, and social accountability tools.
Expected Results
Improved decision-making and oversight; increased use of data; more equitable and transparent IGF systems; and enhanced inclusive participation.
Alignment with Swiss Development Cooperation
The intervention aligns with FDFA/SDC’s commitment to democratic governance, decentralisation, accountability, and inclusive development. By strengthening institutions, promoting transparency, and supporting evidence-based decision-making at the local level, the programme contributes to resilient democratic systems and sustainable development outcomes.