Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, a renowned Ghanaian economist and former Finance Minister, has made a compelling case for the reintegration of traditional Chiefs into Ghana’s governance system. In his thought-provoking write-up, “Empowering Our Chiefs,” he argues that the marginalization of Chiefs has contributed significantly to the social and economic decline of rural areas ¹.
Historically, Chiefs played a vital role in local governance, security, and land management, serving as mediators and custodians of law and order. However, the 1992 Constitution diminished their influence, restricting their duties to customary affairs. Dr. Duffuor contends that this shift has weakened the chieftaincy institution, leading to social disintegration and leaving communities vulnerable to lawlessness, rural exodus, and moral decay.
To address these challenges, Dr. Duffuor proposes a renewed partnership between Chiefs and the government. He advocates for allocating 20% of local revenue to traditional authorities to fund development projects, believing that empowering Chiefs will lead to stronger rural economies, improved education, and better infrastructure. By providing Chiefs with the necessary resources and authority, Dr. Duffuor is confident that they can effectively combat pressing issues like illegal mining, youth unemployment, and rural poverty.
Furthermore, Dr. Duffuor calls for policy and legislative reforms to restore the authority of Chiefs in governance. He suggests an integration plan that enables Chiefs to participate actively in policy implementation and collaborate with faith leaders, local governments, and development agencies. Dr. Duffuor also emphasizes the importance of cultural preservation, warning that sidelining traditional institutions undermines Ghana’s national identity.
Ultimately, Dr. Duffuor’s vision is to create a restructured governance model where Chiefs are empowered and held accountable. By restoring their influence, he believes Ghana can bridge governance gaps, reduce Accra’s over-concentration, and revitalize rural communities. As he aptly puts it, “Empowering our Chiefs is not just about nostalgia; it is about creating a stronger, more balanced nation.”
Source: Richard Nana Appiah Kubi/Ahotoronline.com
