Gov’t triples monthly allowances for paramount chiefs and queen mothers — Local Gov’t Minister

Government Triples Allowances for Paramount Chiefs and Queen Mothers to GH¢3,000

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has announced a substantial increase in monthly allowances for paramount chiefs and queen mothers across Ghana, marking a major policy shift aimed at strengthening traditional leadership support.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, April 20, the Minister disclosed that the allowance has been increased from GH¢1,000 to GH¢3,000 in 2025—representing a 300 percent increment.

According to him, the previous allowance had remained unchanged for the past eight years under the former administration, leaving many traditional leaders with limited financial support despite their expanding roles in governance, mediation, and local development.

“The ministry, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, increased the allowance of paramount chiefs from GH¢1,000 to GH¢3,000. For the last eight years, our chiefs were stagnated in the allowance they were receiving. It was GH¢1,000, and in 2025, the president increased it by 300 percent, and the same increment applies to paramount queen mothers,” he stated.

Recognising the Role of Traditional Authorities

Ahmed Ibrahim emphasized that the increase is part of broader government efforts to formally recognise and strengthen the contribution of traditional authorities in national development.

Paramount chiefs and queen mothers play critical roles in:

• Conflict resolution and community mediation
• Cultural preservation and social cohesion
• Land administration and local governance support
• Advocacy for development projects in rural and urban communities

The Minister noted that enhancing their financial support is essential to enabling them to carry out these responsibilities more effectively.

Policy and Governance Implications

The increment is also seen as a strategic move to deepen collaboration between the state and traditional institutions, which remain influential in Ghana’s governance structure, particularly at the grassroots level.

Analysts suggest the decision could improve morale among traditional leaders while reinforcing their role as key stakeholders in implementing government policies and development initiatives.

However, some observers are likely to raise questions about long-term sustainability, funding sources, and whether similar adjustments will be extended to other categories of traditional leaders.

Looking Ahead

The Ministry is expected to provide further details on the implementation framework, including payment structures and any additional support mechanisms for traditional councils.

The announcement has already generated significant public interest, with many viewing it as a long-overdue adjustment that aligns compensation with the evolving responsibilities of traditional leadership in modern governance.