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The Ghana Audit Service has inaugurated a new district office in Tepa, the capital of the Ahafo Ano North Municipality, to improve transparency, accountability, and financial oversight at the local level.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Wednesday, November 28, 2024, at the newly constructed office premises in Tepa Beposo, brought together several dignitaries, including the Auditor-General, Mr. Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu; officials from the Ahafo Ano North Municipal Assembly; traditional leaders; and representatives from various public institutions.
Decentralizing Audit Services
In his keynote address, Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu highlighted the strategic significance of the new district office in decentralizing audit operations. He stated that the Tepa office would strengthen the Ghana Audit Service’s capacity to monitor financial activities in the municipality and surrounding districts effectively.
“This office is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and transparently at all levels. By bringing our services closer to the institutions we audit, we can detect irregularities early, provide timely recommendations, and support good governance,” he said.
The establishment of the Tepa office is part of a nationwide effort to decentralize the Audit Service’s operations, which began in 2016. This initiative was made possible through a €13 million loan facility approved by Ghana’s Cabinet and funded by KfW, the German Development Bank. The project aimed to construct 25 regional and district offices across the country.
Support from International Partnerships
The initiative received further support in 2020 during the Ghana/Germany Intergovernmental negotiations, where Germany pledged an additional €11.5 million. This additional funding facilitated the construction of six more regional and district offices, including the Tepa branch and the recently completed Volta Regional Office.
Commending the German government, Mr. Akuamoah Asiedu expressed gratitude for the continued partnership, describing it as essential to improving financial governance in Ghana.
A Milestone for Financial Governance
Mr. Akuamoah Asiedu also emphasized the importance of the new office in enhancing the efficiency of the Audit Service. He noted that the modern facility would provide auditors with a conducive working environment, enabling them to fulfill their constitutional mandate of promoting transparency, accountability, and probity in public financial management.
“The completion of these office complexes strengthens the Ghana Audit Service’s capacity to investigate financial mismanagement, ensure efficient use of public resources, and build public confidence in governance systems,” he stated.
Community Support and Commitment
The Paramount Chief of Tepa, Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem I, praised the establishment of the district office, describing it as a significant milestone for the community. He urged public institutions to comply with auditing regulations and uphold integrity in the management of public resources.
“This initiative is a significant milestone for our community. The Audit Service will ensure that public officials and institutions uphold the highest standards of integrity, which is vital for our progress,” he remarked.
Nana Adusei Atwenewa Ampem I also called on the staff of the new office to prioritize the facility’s maintenance to ensure its longevity. Additionally, he appealed to all Ghanaians to embrace peace and transparency during the upcoming 2024 general elections.
“This facility is an investment in the people of Tepa and neighboring districts. I encourage the staff to prioritize its maintenance and use it to uphold the highest standards of accountability. As we approach the 2024 elections, let us also remember the importance of peace and transparency,” he added.
Promoting Accountability and Development
Strategically located, the Tepa office will serve the Ahafo Ano North Municipality and neighboring districts. It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to enhance oversight in key sectors such as education, health, and local governance.
The Tepa branch is part of the Ghana Audit Service’s commitment to building a transparent and accountable public sector. Established under Article 187 of the 1992 Constitution, the Audit Service is tasked with auditing and reporting on the public accounts of Ghana. Over the years, it has intensified efforts to decentralize operations and improve financial governance.
The inauguration of the Tepa office underscores the Ghana Audit Service’s dedication to reducing financial malpractices, ensuring the efficient use of public funds, and fostering sustainable development.
Conclusion
As Ghana continues to prioritize good governance, the opening of the Tepa district office marks a significant step towards strengthening financial oversight and promoting accountability at the local level. The facility is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly and contribute meaningfully to national development.
