The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has assured Parliament that steps are being taken to re-table the University of Local Governance and Development (ULGD) Bill to facilitate the establishment of a university in Akomadan, Offinso North Constituency.
Responding to a question in Parliament on Tuesday, March 12, 2025, from Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, Member of Parliament for Offinso North, the Minister acknowledged the delay in passing the Bill.
The legislation was initially submitted to the House last year but was not approved by the 8th Parliament.
“Mr. Speaker, the Bill for the establishment of the University of Local Governance and Development was submitted to this House last year. Unfortunately, the 8th Parliament was unable to pass it,” Ibrahim stated.
He explained that the new government, having recently formed its Cabinet, is prioritizing the re-submission of the Bill.
“I wish to indicate that the Ministry will take steps to resubmit the Joint Request for Executive Approval by H.E. the President of the Republic of Ghana and subsequently re-lay the Bill for Parliamentary Approval as soon as practicable,” he added.
The proposed university, to be located in Akomadan, is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing academic and professional excellence in local governance and development.
Dr. Fred Kyei Asamoah, who raised the question, expressed optimism about the project’s potential to transform the region.
Meanwhile, addressing another concern regarding the stalled construction of the Mamponteng market in the Kwabre East Constituency, Ahmed Ibrahim stated that the Ministry will collaborate with the Ministries of Finance, Works and Housing, and Water Resources, along with the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council and the Kwabre East Municipal Assembly, to explore available funding options to ensure the project’s completion.
The Ministry of Works and Housing, through the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, awarded a contract in 2012 to High Brain Limited for the construction of the Mamponteng Jubilee Market Project at a cost of GH¢3,475,685.47.
Work on the market commenced on August 1, 2012, under the supervision of ABP Consult Limited, Kumasi.
However, the project stalled by December 31, 2012, and by August 31, 2013, the contractors had suspended operations and abandoned the site.
No construction activity has taken place for the past thirteen years, leading to the deterioration of the uncompleted structure. The current completion rate of the project stands at 55%.