The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), in collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), undertook a working visit to the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolis and the Wassa East District ahead of the SDG Localisation Workshop scheduled to take place in Takoradi from 27 to 30 January 2026.

The visit commenced with a courtesy call on the Mayor of the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, Hon. Frederick F. Faidoo Esq. during which discussions focused on strengthening the local implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. The engagement highlighted the critical role of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in translating national and global development commitments into tangible results at the community level.

Chairman of NDPC, Dr Nii Moi Thompson, underscored the importance of integrating infrastructure planning, human settlements, and local economic development to ensure efficient service delivery and curb unplanned urban growth. He emphasised that national initiatives, including the Ghana Infrastructure Plan and the Medium-Term National Development Policy Framwork aligned to the SDGs, must be effectively operationalised at the local level to achieve meaningful impact.

The UN DESA delegation, led by Mr Jürgen Gafke, reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies in advancing sustainable development. He noted that key development priorities such as water, sanitation, health, education, and employment are ultimately delivered within local communities, making strong local governance systems essential for achieving the SDGs.

As part of the visit, the delegation toured the Sofokrom Landfill Site and the Ghana Water Treatment Centre at Daboase to gain first hand insights into operational realities, infrastructure conditions, and service delivery challenges. Observations from these site visits will directly inform the technical sessions of the upcoming workshop, ensuring that discussions are grounded in practical experience and responsive to local development needs.