Accra: Madam Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, the Minister of State-designate for Public Sector Reforms, has committed to enhancing the efficiency, modernity, and robustness of the public sector by building on existing structures. During her public vetting, she underscored the significance of clear communication in tackling challenges such as bureaucratic hurdles within the sector.
According to Ghana News Agency, Ms. Akanvariba identified limited resources, bureaucracy, political interference, and resistance to change as key challenges. She emphasized that effective communication and innovative strategies could address these issues. She also highlighted the need to strengthen the institutional framework, manage limited resources, and leverage technology to combat corruption.
"When given the opportunity, I will go by government policy, and my own initiative. I will engage state and non-state actors and various sectors of the public sector services," Ms. Akanvariba stated. She plans to focus on strengthening institutional frameworks and utilizing technology to reduce corrupt practices.
As both the Minister-designate and Member of Parliament for the Tempane Constituency, Ms. Akanvariba described the public sector as a broad entity, extending beyond local government. She expressed her support for digitalization and pledged to collaborate with other sector ministers and agencies to enhance existing digital platforms.
"I am here to strengthen what has started already..it is my responsibility to continue from where you started and make the public sector efficient, modern and robust," she noted. On budget allocation, she expressed confidence that the Finance Ministry would provide adequate resources to support her functions.
Ms. Akanvariba also emphasized the importance of performance appraisals, motivation, and productivity in the public sector. She advocated for the implementation of key performance indicators, a conducive working environment, and capacity building, stating, "I want to see motivation and productivity, and you can't get productivity without motivation; the two must go together.So once we are interested in productivity, we should be able to reward people who are working well.".