The hearing, held on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, provided a platform for departments, units and other relevant stakeholders from the two assemblies to present their proposed programmes, activities and resource requirements in line with their respective development priorities.

The exercise formed part of the assemblies' budget preparation process, which is aimed at ensuring that planned activities and projects are properly identified, prioritised and adequately captured in the annual budget. During the engagement, representatives of the various departments and units presented their proposed programmes and outlined the resources required to implement their planned activities. The presentations provided an opportunity for stakeholders to examine development needs and consider the allocation of available resources towards addressing them.

The joint hearing also offered the two assemblies an opportunity to strengthen coordination among their departments and improve the planning process to support effective service delivery. Budget hearings are an important component of local governance, as they provide an avenue for departments, units and stakeholders to contribute to decisions on development priorities and the utilisation of public resources.

The process is expected to help the assemblies prepare realistic and responsive budgets that reflect the needs of their respective communities while supporting the implementation of planned development interventions.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to effective planning, prudent resource allocation and improved service delivery through a participatory budgeting process.

The engagement forms part of efforts by the two local government authorities to promote transparency, accountability and inclusive development in the Upper West Region.