Stories and facts
This administrative region emerged as a result of the government's decentralization program, aimed at fostering effective local governance and expediting the development of various regions. The creation of the Birim North District marked a pivotal moment in the nation's commitment to decentralization, enabling local communities to take charge of their own progress. With its capital situated in New Abirem, the district has embarked on a journey of growth and transformation, encompassing both challenges and triumphs.
Originally stemming from the former Birim District Council, the Birim North District was carved out to facilitate a more streamlined approach to governance and development. This strategic division sought to empower local authorities and communities to engage more intimately in decision-making processes that directly impact their lives. However, this initial configuration underwent a subsequent alteration in 2008, when the Akyemansa District emerged from within the Birim North District. This separation resulted in a noteworthy reduction in the district's estimated land area, shrinking from an expansive 1270 square kilometers to a more compact 550 square kilometers.
Geographically, the Birim North District shares its borders with several neighboring districts, each playing a unique role in the broader regional tapestry. The Akyemansa District lies to the west, while the Kwaebibirem Municipal is situated to the southwest. To the northeast, the district is contiguous with the Kwahu West district, and to the north, it interfaces with the Asante Akyem South Municipal district. These geographical relationships foster a dynamic interplay of ideas, resources, and collaboration in the pursuit of collective progress.
As of the 2021 population and housing census, the Birim North District is home to a diverse population of 82,669 individuals. Within this demographic landscape, gender parity prevails, with 41,343 males and 41,326 females contributing to the district's social fabric. This community represents the heartbeat of the region, a rich tapestry of cultures, aspirations, and dreams that collectively shape the trajectory of the Birim North District.
The Birim North District Assembly derives its mandate and authority from various legislative sources, including Section 245 of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana, Section 103 of Act 936, and Legislative Instrument No. 1418 of 1988. These legal foundations bestow upon the Assembly a range of crucial functions that serve as the cornerstones of its governance and developmental responsibilities.
At its core, the Assembly operates in three interconnected spheres: deliberative, legislative, and executive. These functions synergistically advance the district's progress and welfare, ensuring a holistic approach to governance. The key functions of the Assembly encompass:
The Assembly is tasked with orchestrating the district's overall development. This includes the formulation and submission of comprehensive development plans and budgets to pertinent central government agencies and ministries via the Regional Coordinating Council. By meticulously crafting these roadmaps, the Assembly sets the stage for systematic and sustainable growth.
To actualize its development plans, the Assembly devises and executes strategies for the effective mobilization of resources. This intricate process involves tapping into various channels of funding, both internal and external, to fuel the district's advancement.
The Assembly plays a pivotal role in fostering productive activities and social progress within the district. By creating an environment conducive to innovation and development, it strives to remove impediments that hinder growth and initiative.
One of the Assembly's key responsibilities is the enhancement, management, and development of human settlements and the local environment. This encompasses initiatives that promote sustainability, aesthetics, and livability, ultimately creating a harmonious coexistence between nature and community.
In collaboration with national and local security agencies, the Assembly bears the responsibility for maintaining security and public safety within the district. This holistic approach to safety underscores the commitment to fostering an environment where residents can thrive without compromise.
The Birim North District stands as a testament to Ghana's commitment to decentralized governance and inclusive development. From its inception as a product of the government's decentralization program to its multifaceted functions and responsibilities, the district exemplifies the power of local communities in shaping their destinies. As the Birim North District continues to evolve, its journey serves as an inspiration and a model for other regions embarking on the path of effective decentralized governance and holistic development.
