The Accra Metropolitan Assembly inaugurated its Smart Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Cities Implementation Committee (AMSSCIC) to advance sustainable development through data-driven planning, inclusive governance, and localised implementation of the SDGs.
The initiative is a strategic component of the Ghana Smart SDG Cities Programme, coordinated by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), and supported by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the government of Norway.
Smart SDG Cities Programme
Aligned with the New Urban Agenda, the smart SDG cities programme (publicised on social media as #MyCityMySDG campaign) — seeks to harness the potential of cities to drive sustainable development.
The programme strengthens local governments’ capacity to:
- Use digital tools and spatial data to improve service delivery and urban planning.
- Engage communities in decision-making, especially youth.
- Advance local initiatives through better preparation and financing.
It addresses critical challenges such as informal settlements and housing deficits, with a strong focus on SDG 11: sustainable cities and communities. Cities demonstrating progress are recognised through SDG Cities Certification.
“We aim to align data-driven development with local innovation. This programme places people, especially the youth, at the heart of planning while strengthening our climate resilience,” — Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, Mayor of Accra
About the committee
Chaired by the Mayor of Accra, the 28-member committee brings together local government leaders, officials, and academics from fields including public affairs, information systems, finance, economic planning, community development, and local coordination.
The committee serves as a platform for collaboration, bringing together local government leaders, officials, and academics to coordinate efforts, share expertise, and track Accra’s progress toward the SDGs.
Next steps
Alongside Accra, other Ghanaian cities — including Tamale and Ketu North — have launched their own smart SDG cities implementation committees, signalling nationwide momentum toward people-centred, climate-resilient, and sustainable urban growth.
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