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DUBAI, UAE, Jul 29, 2023, ZEXPRWIRE, In a transformative announcement, Sastanaqqam, a pioneering company that blends decentralization, digitization, and entertainment in a Web 3.0 ecosystem, declared a new strategic alliance with Unicsoft, a highly respected technology consulting company. This exciting collaboration signals a leap forward in enhancing and developing innovative solutions within the blockchain sector.

Sastanaqqams varied services include a robust DeFi platform, state-of-the-art art platforms, an engaging entertainment segment, and an education platform focused on enhancing financial literacy. Their services, supported by the Blue Token, epitomize the tenets of Web 3.0 by offering users decentralized and digitized services across several domains.

Unicsoft, with its extensive experience and expertise in areas such as AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Blockchain, and Cloud Consulting, is ideally positioned to contribute significantly to Sastanaqqams ambitious projects. The collaboration is set to infuse Sastanaqqams platforms with advanced technology, creating a more seamless, secure, and sophisticated user experience.

The partnership will harness Unicsofts capabilities in AI and Machine Learning to enhance user interaction and engagement within the Sastanaqqam ecosystem. Personalized recommendations for artists and collectors on the art platforms, predictive gaming strategies in the entertainment segment, and smart financial advice in the DeFi platforms are just a few of the potential improvements.

Furthermore, Unicsofts acumen in blockchain technology is expected to fortify the security and efficiency of transactions within the Sastanaqqam platforms. This will result in a more robust, reliable, and user-friendly platform for all stakeholders, enhancing trust and engagement

Moreover, Unicsofts data science skills can contribute to a more informed development strategy for Sastanaqqam. By analysing user data and trends, Unicsoft can provide insights that can help shape platform development, create more engaging content, and improve user experiences.

Sastanaqqams collaboration with Unicsoft exemplifies a shared vision for the future of the Web 3.0 landscape. The combination of Unicsofts technological prowess and Sastanaqqams innovative ecosystem is set to revolutionize the way users interact with and experience decentralized finance, digital art, and entertainment.

As we look towards the future of this collaboration, we anticipate a revolution in the Web 3.0 landscape. This partnership is a significant stride towards realizing the full potential of decentralization, digitization, and entertainment. The dawn of a new era in technology is upon us, and this collaboration stands as a crucial milestone in that journey.

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ZEX PR WIRE[emailprotected]

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The Fusion of Technology and Decentralization: Sastanaqqam ... - Digital Journal

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Cyberattacks can exacerbate existing security issues and expose new gaps at the edge, presenting a series of challenges for IT and security staff. Infrastructure must withstand the vulnerabilities that come with the massive proliferation of devices generating, capturing and consuming data outside the traditional data center. The need for a holistic cyber resiliency strategy has never been greater not only for protecting data at the edge, but for consolidating protection from all endpoints of a business to centralized data centers and public clouds.

But before we get into the benefits of a holistic framework for cyber resiliency, it may help to get a better understanding of whythe edgeis often susceptible to cyberattacks, and how adhering to some tried-and-true security best practices can help tighten up edge defenses.

Human error can be the difference between an unsuccessful attack and one that causes application downtime, data loss or financial loss. More than half of new enterprise IT infrastructure will be at the edge by 2023, according toIDC.

With so much data coming and going from the endpoints of an organization, the role humans play in ensuring its safety is magnified.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is thatedge environmentsare typically not staffed with IT administrators, so there is lack of oversight to both the systems deployed at the edge as well as the people who use them.

While capitalizing on data created at the edge is critical for growth in todays digital economy, how can we overcome the challenge of securing an expanding attack surface with cyber threats becoming more sophisticated and invasive than ever?

It may feel like there are no simple answers, but organizations may start by addressing three fundamental key elements for security and data protection: Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability (CIA).

In addition to adopting CIA principles, organizations should consider applying a multi-layered approach for protecting and securing infrastructure and data at the edge. This typically falls into three categories: the physical layer, the operational layer and the application layer.

At the edge, servers and other IT infrastructure are likely to be housed beside an assembly line, in the stockroom of a retail store, or even in the base of a streetlight. This makes data on the edge much more vulnerable, calling for hardened solutions to help ensure the physical security of edge application infrastructure.

Best practices to consider for physical security at the edge include:

Edge environments tend to lag in specific security software and necessary updates, including data protection. The vast number of devices being deployed and lack of visibility into the devices makes it difficult to secure endpoints vs. a centralized data center.

Best practices to consider for securingIT infrastructureat the edge include:

Once you get to the application layer, data protection looks a lot like traditional data center security. However, the high amount of data transfer combined with the large number of endpoints inherent in edge computing opens points of attack as data travels between the edge, the core data center and to the cloud and back.

Best practices to consider for application security at the edge include:

While CIA and taking a layered approach to edge protection can greatly mitigate risk, successful cyberattacks are inevitable. Organizations need assurance that they can quickly recover data and systems after a cyberattack. Recovery is a critical step in resuming normal business operations.

By vaulting data on the edge to a regional data center or to the cloud through an automated, air-gapped solution, organizations can ensure its immutability for data trust. Once in the vault, it can be analyzed for proactive detection of any cyber risk for protected data. Avoiding data loss and minimizing costly downtime with analytics and remediation tools in the vault can help ensure data integrity and accelerate recovery.

Organizations can address edge data protection and cybersecurity challenges head-on by deploying and managing holistic modern data protection solutions on-premises, at the edge and in the cloud or by leveraging Backup as-a-Service (BaaS) solutions. Through BaaS, businesses large and small can leverage the flexibility and economies of scale of cloud-based backup and long-term retention to protect critical data at the edge which can be especially important in remote work scenarios.

As part of a larger zero trust or other security strategy, organizations should consider a holistic approach that includes cyber security standards, guidelines, people, business processes and technology solutions and services to achieve cyber resilience.

The threat of cyberattacks and the importance of maintaining the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data require an innovative resiliency strategy to protect vital data and systems whether at the edge, core or across multi-cloud.

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Protecting Edge Data in the Era of Decentralization - Bisinfotech

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Web3 wallets have become a crucial tool inthe new era of the Internet, where decentralization, blockchain, andcryptocurrencies are at the forefront of innovation. A Web3 wallet, also knownas a crypto wallet, is a digital wallet that enables users to store, send, andreceive cryptocurrencies, interact with smart contracts, transact NFTs, andaccess dApps on different blockchains.

As the use cases of Web3 walletscontinue to expand, the question of whether centralization can play a role inmanaging these wallets arises. I will explore the concept of Web3 walletsmanaged by Centralized Exchange (CEX) and discuss whether it aligns with theprinciples of Web3.

CEXs (centralized cryptocurrency exchanges)act as intermediaries for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies in acentralized manner. They offer a user-friendly platform where users can conductvarious cryptocurrency transactions. However, users must trust the exchange tomanage their funds securely, as the exchange controls the wallets.

Web3 wallets provided by CEXs claim tointegrate with decentralized ecosystems and allow interactions with dApps andblockchains. Despite this claim, the underlying nature of these wallets remainscentralized, as the exchange retains control over users' private keys andfunds.

Keep Reading

The centralization aspect of CEXs extendsto their Web3 wallets in various ways:

For users seeking decentralization and fullcontrol over their funds, self-hosted software wallets or hardware wallets maybe more suitable.

While Web3 wallets and centralization cancoexist to some extent, the level of centralization varies depending onspecific implementation and design choices by wallet providers. Understanding thisrelationship can shed light on how these elements interact.

Reputation scores verify wallet reliability based on on-chain activity.

@OrangeProtocol assesses user activity across wallets to build Web3 scores: Reputation, activity, and creditworthiness.

Join us in exploring the evolution of identity rating.

Let me share some examples:

OKX, a well-known player in the Web3technology space and the second-largest cryptocurrency exchange in terms of tradingvolume, recently unveiled a significant upgrade to its OKX Wallet. This upgradeintroduces groundbreaking features that position it as the first Web3 wallet tointegrate advanced multi-party computation (MPC) technology.

Integrating MPC technology into the OKXWallet eliminates the need for traditional key and seed phrase storage methods.Instead, the user's private key is divided into three parts, significantlyenhancing security and reducing the risks associated with a single point offailure. Leveraging MPC ensures that users retain complete control over theirwallet assets while enjoying the highest level of security.

OKX Wallet operatesas a fully decentralized and non-custodial solution, empowering users with fullownership and control over their funds. Unlike centralized exchanges, OKX doesnot hold users' assets, creating a secure environment that allows individualsto have custody of their cryptocurrencies.

The wallet offers multi-blockchain support and automatically recognizes and connects to supported networks, providing aconvenient solution for users engaged in decentralized finance (DeFi),non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and decentralized applications (DApps).

The upgraded OKX Wallet introduces aninnovative asset recovery feature called "independent EmergencyEscape," revolutionizing the recovery process. In critical situations,users can regain access to their assets through using two out of three accesscredentials: a device, a cloud backup, or an OKX account login. This uniquefeature enhances user security and autonomy, allowing individuals to regaincontrol of their assets without relying on OKX's involvement.

In addition to its robust securityfeatures, the OKX Wallet provides completecontrol and ownership of funds, facilitating faster withdrawals withoutwithdrawal approval. The wallet allows seamless management of multiple chains,eliminating the need for manual network switching.

Users can import multipleseed phrases and derive addresses within the wallet. Easy connectivity isensured through the OKX Wallet web extension and dedicated iOS and Androidmobile apps. Integration with the OKX DEX, an integrated decentralized exchangeaggregator, enables multi-chain and cross-chain transactions.

Thanks OKX wallet for the integration support, Trait Sniper is not only in NFT domain, now also spreading to SocialFi domain.To be continued... https://t.co/Kwuuwteyt4

CaseStudy 2: Bitverse

Introducing Bitverse, an innovative MPC +AA Wallet leading the way in building the "Credit Creates Wealth"Web3 ecosystem. Bitverse combines artificial intelligence, Oracle creditprotocols, and advanced cryptographic techniques to create a secure,decentralized, and user-friendly environment for controlling and managingassets.

It aims to promote user engagement and loyalty with engaging featureslike lucky packets, event guessing, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and airdroptools. We will explore the key advantages and how it is shaping the landscapeof Web3.

One of the primary advantages is itsimplementation of the Bitverse Credit Protocol (BCP) and Credit Oracle. BCP isa decentralized credit protocol that leverages AI and Oracle technology. Itestablishes a hybrid credit system (OCC + RWC) that operates on both theblockchain and off-chain.

Extending credit capabilities to both realms ensuresthat credit is accessible and convenient for all industry members and users.This innovative approach addresses common pain points in the industry, such aslow fund utilization and limited benefits for high-credit users.

Toachieve robust security, it employs MPC. It also prioritizes convenience for itsusers and incorporates a secret key partition management system withcryptography principles, zero-knowledge proofs, trusted execution environments(TEE), and robust authentication mechanisms.

In its development, it is actively workingon an Account Abstraction (AA) wallet that supports non-main chain currencies.This AA wallet enables users to pay gas fees using alternative tokens. For compatibility, it supports single-signed wallets usingtraditional mnemonic phrases. This compatibility ensures a seamless transitionfor users already familiar with existing Web3 wallet practices while expandingthe user base.

With its unique features and user-centricapproach, it is shaping the future of decentralized finance and revolutionizinghow users control and manage their assets in the digital world. It's worthnoting that Bitverse is integrated into the Bybit exchange, furtherexpanding its reach and capabilities.

' #Dexalot willl continues deliver the look & feel of centralized exchanges further fulfilling objective, they replicate user experience of centralized exchanges (CEX) without compromising on decentralization & transparency.

1/2#Avalanche$AVAX

The examples provided above serve toillustrate two distinct aspects. The first example showcases how a CEX can develop its own Web3 solution, while the second demonstratesthe integration of a third-party solution. Both integrations have their meritsand represent a positive step towards enabling users to experience thefunctionality of Web3.

In contrast, Web3 is founded on theprinciple of decentralization, ensuring that no single entity maintains controlover the network. Decentralization enhances security, transparency, andresilience against attacks by eliminating a central point of failure.

So, can CEXs manage Web3 wallets?Technically, the answer is yes, but it contradicts the principles of Web3. Whenusers entrust their assets to a CEX-managed Web3 wallet, they place their faithin the CEX, which undermines the concept of decentralization.

CEXs have a historyof security breaches, and if it is hacked or goes bankrupt, users maypermanently lose their funds. Moreover, they may impose restrictions on users'funds, such as freezing or seizing them, which contradicts the financialsovereignty that Web3 aims to achieve.

Another concern with CEX-managed Web3wallets is the risk of censorship. They may comply with government regulationsand limit users' access to specific decentralized applications (dApps) orblockchains, eroding the idea of an open and permissionless internet envisionedby Web3 further.

However, it is essential to note that notall CEXs are identical. Some have taken steps towards decentralization byadopting non-custodial features, enabling users to retain control over theirprivate keys and assets while benefiting from the user-friendly interface of acentralized exchange.

Many also offer cross-chain interoperability, allowingusers to access multiple blockchains from a single platform, which can beconvenient for those who trade various cryptocurrencies. Nevertheless, despitethese efforts, CEX-managed Web3 wallets still diverge from the core principlesof Web3.

Web3 wallets managed by CEXs may offer auser-friendly interface for cryptocurrency trading and accessing differentblockchains, but they deviate from the fundamental principles of Web3.Decentralization is a pivotal aspect of Web3, distinguishing it fromtraditional Internet and financial systems.

While Web3 wallets and centralization cancoexist, users should be cognizant of the degree of centralization involved andmake informed decisions based on their priorities. For users seekingdecentralization, the ideal scenario entails utilizing wallets prioritizingclient-side control, locally stored private keys, and open-source code allowingindependent verification.

The usual "Anndy Lian" quote toend the article: "Whether championed by a centralized or decentralizedentity, this is the journey of Web3. We must respect this entire process."

Web3 wallets have become a crucial tool inthe new era of the Internet, where decentralization, blockchain, andcryptocurrencies are at the forefront of innovation. A Web3 wallet, also knownas a crypto wallet, is a digital wallet that enables users to store, send, andreceive cryptocurrencies, interact with smart contracts, transact NFTs, andaccess dApps on different blockchains.

As the use cases of Web3 walletscontinue to expand, the question of whether centralization can play a role inmanaging these wallets arises. I will explore the concept of Web3 walletsmanaged by Centralized Exchange (CEX) and discuss whether it aligns with theprinciples of Web3.

CEXs (centralized cryptocurrency exchanges)act as intermediaries for buying, selling, and trading cryptocurrencies in acentralized manner. They offer a user-friendly platform where users can conductvarious cryptocurrency transactions. However, users must trust the exchange tomanage their funds securely, as the exchange controls the wallets.

Web3 wallets provided by CEXs claim tointegrate with decentralized ecosystems and allow interactions with dApps andblockchains. Despite this claim, the underlying nature of these wallets remainscentralized, as the exchange retains control over users' private keys andfunds.

Keep Reading

The centralization aspect of CEXs extendsto their Web3 wallets in various ways:

For users seeking decentralization and fullcontrol over their funds, self-hosted software wallets or hardware wallets maybe more suitable.

While Web3 wallets and centralization cancoexist to some extent, the level of centralization varies depending onspecific implementation and design choices by wallet providers. Understanding thisrelationship can shed light on how these elements interact.

Reputation scores verify wallet reliability based on on-chain activity.

@OrangeProtocol assesses user activity across wallets to build Web3 scores: Reputation, activity, and creditworthiness.

Join us in exploring the evolution of identity rating.

Let me share some examples:

OKX, a well-known player in the Web3technology space and the second-largest cryptocurrency exchange in terms of tradingvolume, recently unveiled a significant upgrade to its OKX Wallet. This upgradeintroduces groundbreaking features that position it as the first Web3 wallet tointegrate advanced multi-party computation (MPC) technology.

Integrating MPC technology into the OKXWallet eliminates the need for traditional key and seed phrase storage methods.Instead, the user's private key is divided into three parts, significantlyenhancing security and reducing the risks associated with a single point offailure. Leveraging MPC ensures that users retain complete control over theirwallet assets while enjoying the highest level of security.

OKX Wallet operatesas a fully decentralized and non-custodial solution, empowering users with fullownership and control over their funds. Unlike centralized exchanges, OKX doesnot hold users' assets, creating a secure environment that allows individualsto have custody of their cryptocurrencies.

The wallet offers multi-blockchain support and automatically recognizes and connects to supported networks, providing aconvenient solution for users engaged in decentralized finance (DeFi),non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and decentralized applications (DApps).

The upgraded OKX Wallet introduces aninnovative asset recovery feature called "independent EmergencyEscape," revolutionizing the recovery process. In critical situations,users can regain access to their assets through using two out of three accesscredentials: a device, a cloud backup, or an OKX account login. This uniquefeature enhances user security and autonomy, allowing individuals to regaincontrol of their assets without relying on OKX's involvement.

In addition to its robust securityfeatures, the OKX Wallet provides completecontrol and ownership of funds, facilitating faster withdrawals withoutwithdrawal approval. The wallet allows seamless management of multiple chains,eliminating the need for manual network switching.

Users can import multipleseed phrases and derive addresses within the wallet. Easy connectivity isensured through the OKX Wallet web extension and dedicated iOS and Androidmobile apps. Integration with the OKX DEX, an integrated decentralized exchangeaggregator, enables multi-chain and cross-chain transactions.

Thanks OKX wallet for the integration support, Trait Sniper is not only in NFT domain, now also spreading to SocialFi domain.To be continued... https://t.co/Kwuuwteyt4

CaseStudy 2: Bitverse

Introducing Bitverse, an innovative MPC +AA Wallet leading the way in building the "Credit Creates Wealth"Web3 ecosystem. Bitverse combines artificial intelligence, Oracle creditprotocols, and advanced cryptographic techniques to create a secure,decentralized, and user-friendly environment for controlling and managingassets.

It aims to promote user engagement and loyalty with engaging featureslike lucky packets, event guessing, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and airdroptools. We will explore the key advantages and how it is shaping the landscapeof Web3.

One of the primary advantages is itsimplementation of the Bitverse Credit Protocol (BCP) and Credit Oracle. BCP isa decentralized credit protocol that leverages AI and Oracle technology. Itestablishes a hybrid credit system (OCC + RWC) that operates on both theblockchain and off-chain.

Extending credit capabilities to both realms ensuresthat credit is accessible and convenient for all industry members and users.This innovative approach addresses common pain points in the industry, such aslow fund utilization and limited benefits for high-credit users.

Toachieve robust security, it employs MPC. It also prioritizes convenience for itsusers and incorporates a secret key partition management system withcryptography principles, zero-knowledge proofs, trusted execution environments(TEE), and robust authentication mechanisms.

In its development, it is actively workingon an Account Abstraction (AA) wallet that supports non-main chain currencies.This AA wallet enables users to pay gas fees using alternative tokens. For compatibility, it supports single-signed wallets usingtraditional mnemonic phrases. This compatibility ensures a seamless transitionfor users already familiar with existing Web3 wallet practices while expandingthe user base.

With its unique features and user-centricapproach, it is shaping the future of decentralized finance and revolutionizinghow users control and manage their assets in the digital world. It's worthnoting that Bitverse is integrated into the Bybit exchange, furtherexpanding its reach and capabilities.

' #Dexalot willl continues deliver the look & feel of centralized exchanges further fulfilling objective, they replicate user experience of centralized exchanges (CEX) without compromising on decentralization & transparency.

1/2#Avalanche$AVAX

The examples provided above serve toillustrate two distinct aspects. The first example showcases how a CEX can develop its own Web3 solution, while the second demonstratesthe integration of a third-party solution. Both integrations have their meritsand represent a positive step towards enabling users to experience thefunctionality of Web3.

In contrast, Web3 is founded on theprinciple of decentralization, ensuring that no single entity maintains controlover the network. Decentralization enhances security, transparency, andresilience against attacks by eliminating a central point of failure.

So, can CEXs manage Web3 wallets?Technically, the answer is yes, but it contradicts the principles of Web3. Whenusers entrust their assets to a CEX-managed Web3 wallet, they place their faithin the CEX, which undermines the concept of decentralization.

CEXs have a historyof security breaches, and if it is hacked or goes bankrupt, users maypermanently lose their funds. Moreover, they may impose restrictions on users'funds, such as freezing or seizing them, which contradicts the financialsovereignty that Web3 aims to achieve.

Another concern with CEX-managed Web3wallets is the risk of censorship. They may comply with government regulationsand limit users' access to specific decentralized applications (dApps) orblockchains, eroding the idea of an open and permissionless internet envisionedby Web3 further.

However, it is essential to note that notall CEXs are identical. Some have taken steps towards decentralization byadopting non-custodial features, enabling users to retain control over theirprivate keys and assets while benefiting from the user-friendly interface of acentralized exchange.

Many also offer cross-chain interoperability, allowingusers to access multiple blockchains from a single platform, which can beconvenient for those who trade various cryptocurrencies. Nevertheless, despitethese efforts, CEX-managed Web3 wallets still diverge from the core principlesof Web3.

Web3 wallets managed by CEXs may offer auser-friendly interface for cryptocurrency trading and accessing differentblockchains, but they deviate from the fundamental principles of Web3.Decentralization is a pivotal aspect of Web3, distinguishing it fromtraditional Internet and financial systems.

While Web3 wallets and centralization cancoexist, users should be cognizant of the degree of centralization involved andmake informed decisions based on their priorities. For users seekingdecentralization, the ideal scenario entails utilizing wallets prioritizingclient-side control, locally stored private keys, and open-source code allowingindependent verification.

The usual "Anndy Lian" quote toend the article: "Whether championed by a centralized or decentralizedentity, this is the journey of Web3. We must respect this entire process."

Link:

Web3 Wallets and Centralization: Can They Coexist? - Finance Magnates

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By Issifu Seidu Kudus Gbeadese

On Your Birthday Sir,I wish to start this episode by first wishing you, Dr. Callistus Mahama, a special birthday. It is indeed a blessing to be alive, active and still contributing to the positive growth of humanity, Ghana and the world at large. Your reward is not just in heaven but on the lips of many whose lives your benevolence has had a touch on.

Ghana, a small country where tongues are always begging to wag, as usual had a free fall to gossip on an alleged witchcraft followed by lynching and torturing of a 90-year old Akua Denteh in small community call KAFABA, in July 2020. This torturing exercise was well conducted by a self-classd fetish priest and her accomplices. Thankfully, the criminal prosecution has ended with some convictions.

Indeed, when the conversation waged, as usual of the media and the agenda setters of this country, all the people of KAFABA and by extension the people of Kpembe Traditional area and Gonjaland as a whole were branded witches and murderers at the same time. Most commentators never took the pain to know where KAFABA was and who her illustrious sons and daughters were. Well, if you didnt know, one of the illustrious sons of KAFABA is Dr Callistus Mahamaa man who is neither a witch nor a murderer. Indeed, a man who has distinguished himself in both academia and in public service. A simple, result-oriented, principled and hard working man whose character is unquestionable and with an unblemished reputation.

I had to take some time off the usual gossip centres just to personally know the person whose path has crossed with mine. Before I could get to know the real Dr. Callistus Mahama, I stopped wondering why the likes of Abdul Hayi Moomin and his class of gossips kept their ranks closed with him.

Quite a private man, with a PhD in Land Law and an Mphil in Land Economy, both from the Cambridge University, England, and BSc Land Economy from the prestigious KNUST, Dr. Callistus Mahama has had his footprints in many an institution in Ghana. Tracing these footprints in human resource development, Dr Callistus has paid his dues for about half a decade (2004 2007) as a lecturer in the Department of Land Economy in his alma mater, KNUST. During the same period, he doubled as a Junior Partner at the Valuation and Estate Service Ltd, Kumasi, Ghana. And almost the same period (2004 2005), Dr was also a Junior Partner with Padfield and Woodman Associates, a UK firm based in Kumasi.

Dr. Callistus appointment in March 2013 to head the Local Government Service was preceded with hard work and dedication in the area of local governance for yet another half decade. Three years of service as a Deputy Director at the Tamale Campus of the Local Government Institute and about another three years in the same position at the Accra Campus of same institution until 2013, was no mean a period and valuable contribution to Local Government sector. So, his appointment in 2013 to head the Local Government Service was spot on just as it was meritorious.

Established in 2003 by Act 656, the Local Government Service had its fair share of transformation and reformation under the 4-year leadership of Dr. Callistus Mahama. No wonder he was lauded by Head of Co-operation at the EU delegation to Ghana, Mr Ignacio Burrull for the lead and effective role he played as the Chairman of the Decentralization Sector Working Group in the decentralization drive of Ghana.

As Head of the Local Government Service, Dr. Callistus did not just see a position or an office to occupy, but an institution to transform into an effective and efficient development machinery. As the Executive Secretary to the Inter-ministerial Co-ordinating Committee, he spearheaded the bi-partisan process of reviewing the First National Decentralization Policy Framework and Action Plan, and eventually led the development of the Second framework anchored on five thematic areas. These included: political and legal reforms (political decentralization), administrative decentralization, fiscal decentralization, decentralized planning and popular participation.

Indeed, many a Ghanaian did not know that it was out of this second framework the country realized very important legislations and strategic reforms for effective governance and decentralization to reflect what the framers of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana envisaged.

In fact, under each of the five thematic areas, there were corresponding legislations and reforms to effectuate the efficient decentralization machinery for effective and seamless service delivery.

The following legislations and reforms were realized under the first theme, political decentralization: Local Governance Act, 2016 (Act 936); National Sports Authority and Youth Authority Act, 2016 (Act 934); Local Government (Sub-metro and District Councils) Establishment Composition and Functions Instruments, 2016; Land Use and Spatial Planning Act and National Development (systems) Regulations.

Under the second theme, thus Fiscal Decentralization, the following reforms were realized: the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) was developed for the effective implementation of the Regional Integrated Budgeting System (RIBS), and a sector wide approach to decentralization. Also, under the third theme, Administrative Decentralization, the Inter-service and Sectoral Collaboration and Co-operation Systems (ISCC) was developed to among others serve as an integrated service delivery system between the Local Government Service, MDAs, SoEs and NGOs.

The forth theme, Decentralized Planning realized the following legislations: Land use and Spatial Planning Act, 2016 (Act 925); Public Procurement (Amendment) Act, 2016 (Act 914); and National Development Planning Instrument. Finally, under the firth theme, Popular Participation, a national framework for popular participation and a Practitioners Manual was developed to improve engagement, accountability and service delivery.

The above reforms and corresponding legislations were the products of the Second National Decentralization Policy Framework and Action Plan, which was developed under the supervision of Dr Callistus Mahama as the Executive Secretary to the Inter-ministerial Co-ordinating Committee (IMCC) on Decentralization. Flipping through his farewell message to the Local Government Service (LGS) and its staff in March 2017, I was not surprised when Dr Callistus proudly intimated that he took very tough decisions as head of the LGS as a display of his good will and the collective interest for the service and Ghana at large and not for his personal interest.

So, next time you hear the name Kafaba, please do not tag the name to witchcraft or lynching, but to academic excellence and selfless service to mother Ghana. Next time when you hear that East Gonja has indeed contributed to academia, let your search spread wide beyond the likes of Dr. Clifford and others to also catch Dr. Callistus. And when next you are looking for those who have contributed immensely to national development from Gonjaland, please let your search engine not jump over Dr. Callistus Mahama.

Today, we are all witnesses to the effective and smooth administration at the Office of H.E John Dramani Mahama. Maybe, just maybe, some were somehow ambivalent of the appointment of Dr Callistus to play the administrative role (aide) in this office. I will forever be proud to read and learn from you.

Once more, a Happy Birthday to Dr. Callistus Mahama, Aide To H.E John Dramani Mahama.

Disclaimer:"The views expressed on this site are those of the contributors or columnists, and do not necessarily reflect ModernGhanas position. ModernGhana will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements in the contributions or columns here."

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A flip through the contribution of Dr. Callistus Mahama to decentralization in Ghana on his birthday - Modern Ghana

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