Speaker Bagbin Launches Collaborative Capacity Development Initiative with World Bank and UK FCDO

The Parliament of Ghana marked a major milestone in strengthening its legislative capacity with the official launch of a US$1.6 million capacity-building project by Speaker Rt. Hon. Alban Kingsford Sumana Bagbin.

This program, established through a collaborative partnership with the World Bank and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), aims to enhance the skills of Members of Parliament and their staff, particularly in economic and financial governance.

During the launch ceremony, the Speaker expressed his appreciation to both organizations, emphasizing that this joint effort would bolster Ghana’s democracy and empower Parliament to more effectively fulfill its constitutional duties.

Titled “Building the Capacity of Parliamentarians for Economic and Financial Governance,” the project was introduced by representatives from the World Bank and FCDO, who stressed its role in modernizing legislative functions. Speaker Bagbin highlighted how the initiative would strengthen existing partnerships between Ghana, the UK, and the international development community. He noted that a better-equipped Parliament would not only increase legislative effectiveness but also restore public trust in democratic governance and improve economic oversight.

Clerk to Parliament, Mr. Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, welcomed the project, outlining its potential to deepen collaboration between Parliament and development partners. He explained that by providing Parliament with enhanced tools and expertise, the institution would be better positioned to perform its legislative and oversight roles to the benefit of Ghana and its citizens.

Officials from the UK, including H.E. Keith McMahon of the FCDO and Ms. Michelle Keane of the World Bank, highlighted the critical importance of ongoing capacity development within parliamentary processes. They emphasized that improving MPs’ knowledge of legislative procedures and financial management would promote greater accountability and transparency. Such improvements, they noted, would help combat corruption and ensure prudent management of public resources in line with Ghana’s sustainable development goals.

Leaders from both sides of Parliament, Hon. Mahama Ayariga and Hon. Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin, praised the initiative as timely and impactful. They urged committee heads to take ownership of the project and commit to its successful implementation. United in purpose, they expressed confidence that this capacity-building effort would enhance parliamentary efficiency and make a significant contribution to Ghana’s overall development agenda.