The Head of Local Government Service Dr. Callistus Mahama joined the Eastern Regional Planning Officers Association at their annual retreat at MODAK Hotel in Kwahu – Pepease on Thursday 26th January, 2017 as the Special Guest of Honour. The conference is organized yearly to review performance and plan for the ensuing year. The Head of Service (HoS) was accompanied by the Director of Policy Planning, Budgeting, Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr. Gregory Addah, the Head of Public Affairs, Mr. Joseph Ankamah and Ms. Kate Ohenewaa Adu, a Public Affairs Officer.
Present at the meeting were Mr. Korzie Sambo, the Chief Director of Eastern Regional Coordinating Council, Mr. J. D. Awuah, the Regional Economic Planning Officer and Mr Agyei, the Coordinating Director at Kwahu East District Assembly.
The 2016 Review Conference also introduced officers to planning techniques that will enable them effectively perform their roles and responsibilities as the country prepares for the next 4-year District Medium Term Development Plans (2018 – 2021). The theme of the conference was “Improving Service Delivery – The Role of District Development Planning Officers”.
Dr. Mahama’s address highlighted, among other things, the importance of skills development for optimum performance, prioritization of Local Economic Development issues in their plans and programmes and facilitation of citizen’s participation in decision making. He touched on the need for officers to avoid meddling in controversial issues (political and chieftaincy) and the need for officers to enhance their career through academic development and professional affiliation. He said professional development is as equally important as the work done by officers.
Participants were offered opportunity during the open forum to seek clarification and explanation on issues. Some issues discussed included ensuring efficient planning, study leave challenges, delay in commensurate salary payment of promoted officers and the challenge of project implementation at the MMDA level by central government agencies without recourse to the Assemblies.
In his closing remarks, the Head of Service said the role of the Planning Officer will be appreciated when perceived to have discharged duties with equity and fairness. He urged them to be hard working and consult peers and senior colleagues when necessary.