Mismanagement is costing gov't - Deputy Minister

Sunyani, Aug 8, GNA- Mr Yaw Adjei-Duffuor, Deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, on Friday said mismanagement and misapplication of resources in some organizations cost the government billions of cedis.

''Due to complete disregard for financial regulations and basic procurement procedures, monies which could have been used to provide basic services as health care, water and sound education are being wasted'', he said.

The Deputy Regional Minister was speaking at a day workshop on capacity building for NADMO staff in the region. It was organized by Action Aid Ghana to equip them with new skills and knowledge.

He said a new financial bill is being debated to replace the old financial administration regulation to help prevent loss of funds. Mr Adjei-Duffuor said the government is doing its best to ensure transparency and accountability in the public service.

Mr Adjei-Duffuor said Ghana abounds in skills and talents capable of transforming her into one of the most prosperous nations in Africa, adding "what we lack is the ability to harness them for the nation's development."

The Deputy Regional Minister commended NADMO for its bold attempt to generate employment under the poverty reduction programme of the government.

Nana Atta Afena, Regional Coordinator of NADMO, said the region had established 311 Disaster Volunteer Groups (DVG) and has submitted project proposals for financial assistance to the groups under the HIPC and Poverty Alleviation Funds.

Five districts in the region have also been selected to enjoy Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) package for Ghanaian returnees from La Cote D'Ivoire, Liberia and other sister African countries. The Regional Coordinator appealed to District Assemblies to assist NADMO by making available the five percent share of the Assemblies Common Fund earmarked for disasters.