CILGD calls for stronger local governance to support sustainable communities
The Chartered Institute of Local Governance and Development (CILGD) has called for greater investment in local government professionals as Ghana works to build sustainable and well-planned communities.
The Institute said growing urban populations are putting increasing pressure on local authorities to address housing, sanitation, waste management, transport, infrastructure and access to basic public services.
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According to CILGD, addressing these challenges requires more than infrastructure investment; it also requires strong institutions, competent professionals and effective leadership at the local level.
In a statement issued to mark World Habitat Day 2026 on Monday, October 5, 2026, the Institute said local governments must be equipped to turn national and global development commitments into practical improvements in people’s lives.
“Addressing the challenges facing our cities requires more than infrastructure investment. It requires capable institutions, competent professionals, effective leadership and the active participation of citizens,” CILGD said.
The Institute said particular attention must be given to the professional development and capacity building of local government practitioners involved in planning, development management and the delivery of services.
“We must invest in the professional development of local government practitioners, particularly those responsible for planning, development management and service delivery at the local level,” the statement affirmed.
CILGD also called on Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), government institutions, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, academia, the private sector and development partners to strengthen cooperation.
“Building sustainable communities requires all stakeholders to work together to create places that are inclusive, safe, resilient, well-planned and environmentally sustainable,” the Institute said.
The Institute linked stronger local governance to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 11, which seeks to promote inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities.
CILGD said the ability of local authorities to implement national and global development commitments would be critical to improving living conditions across communities.
“Sustainable communities begin with effective local institutions. As we invest in housing and infrastructure, we must equally invest in the people, systems and leadership responsible for governing our cities and communities,” it noted.
The Institute said it would continue to promote dialogue and professional engagement on local governance and sustainable development as part of Urban October 2026, with activities leading up to World Cities Day on October 31, 2026.
It urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to building communities where development is inclusive, local institutions are accountable and citizens can live and thrive in a safe and sustainable environment.
CILGD said professionalising local governance and strengthening institutional capacity remained important to achieving sustainable development in Ghana and beyond.
ANAS/MA
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