Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has revealed that the government is in the process of establishing the Chieftaincy Development Fund. This initiative aims to provide sustainable financing for chiefs and traditional rulers, empowering them to fulfill their leadership roles within their communities. The Fund will enable traditional leaders to initiate development projects independently, fostering capacity building and training programs for chiefs and queen mothers.
Speaking at the ‘Ahohoo Durbar’ at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Mr. Asamoah Boateng emphasized the importance of strengthening the chieftaincy institution as a cornerstone of local development. The durbar, held as part of the activities marking the 25th anniversary of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s reign, brought together chiefs from various tribes in the Ashanti region to pay homage to the king.
Representatives from diverse tribes, including Ewes, Fantis, Gas, Moshies, Gonjas, Walas, Nzemas, Dagombas, Frafras, and Kusases, attended the gathering. Additionally, tribal leaders and their subjects from neighboring countries such as the Igbos, Yorubas, and the Songhais were present.
Mr. Asamoah Boateng also mentioned that the Ministry is reviewing the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759) and Legislative Instruments 798 to update them according to current circumstances and restore some authority to traditional leaders.
Commending the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his contributions to education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation through the Otumfuo Charity Foundation, Mr. Asamoah Boateng highlighted the positive impact of visionary traditional leaders on national development.
Ogyeahohoo Yaw Gyebi, President of the National House of Chiefs, praised the Asantehene’s socio-economic and political contributions, particularly his efforts in the “Heal KATH Project” aimed at improving healthcare provision. He urged Ghanaians to maintain unity and peace during the upcoming general elections and called on traditional and community leaders to educate the youth to resist exploitation by political groups and uphold the integrity of elections.
