CoST Sekondi-Takoradi is a local chapter of CoST International working at the subnational level to implement transparency and accountability reforms within the infrastructure sector using CoST’s core features of Disclosure, Assurance, Multi-stakeholder working and Social Accountability
The Twin-City of Sekondi-Takoradi applied for CoST membership in 2018, and in doing so demonstrated the synergy between CoST and Open Government Partnership (OGP) commitments. Enhancing transparency and accountability in the delivery of public infrastructure is one of the core pillars of STMA’s Second OGP Local Action Plan, including publishing project information, developing citizen monitoring mechanisms, and adopting the CoST Infrastructure Data Standard (CoST IDS)
On 13 March 2019 STMA’s CoST membership was announced as part of Open Government Week, during which advocates around the world showcase their commitment to open and transparent government.
Both government and non-government actors attended the event including 15 local and national media outlets. A number of high-level speakers were in attendance, including Hon. Anthony Kobina Kurentsir and the OGP Multi-Stakeholder Forum Co-Chair, Victoria Araba Dennis.
CoST Sekondi-Takoradi chapter is currently working with 8 Procuring Entities (local governments) in the Western Region of Ghana.
Some of key milestones include;
The Infrastructure Analytical Dashboard (IAD) is a business intelligence tool that provides a comprehensive overview of disclosed infrastructure data. The tool analyses multiple infrastructure datasets drawn from projects publicized on CoST Sekondi-Takoradi’s Disclosure Portal by 8 local government authorities (procuring entities) currently working with the organization. The IAD generates statistical and interactive infographic use cases that provide insights on value-for-money considerations, tender management, and contract administration; and quantitatively categorizes projects according to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Access to easily understandable infrastructure data can greatly benefit individuals, organizations, and governments in making informed decisions and optimizing resource allocation. However, the bulk and complexity of datasets can be overwhelming, especially for users who are not familiar with data analysis or lack technical expertise to analyse complex data. This may lead to misinterpretation; leading to flawed conclusions, or biased decision-making.
Therefore, presenting complex datasets through visualizations enable multiple stakeholders (government, the private sector, civil society, media, and citizens) to interact and efficiently visualize complex information to identify and understand potentially significant trends associated with the delivery of publicly-funded infrastructure projects. Visual representations provide unique insight by aiding decision-makers and other stakeholders to grasp hitherto complex datasets or information items to inform infrastructure reform.
With the added ability to filter data according to multiple variables and interactive visualizations, the IAD enables users to filter data, drill down into details, and explore different aspects of the presented information.
With a broad objective of triggering accountability mechanisms and driving reform by using compelling infographics to ensure data usage, the development of the IAD went through 3 phases.
Here's how different stakeholders can utilize an analytical dashboard for social accountability and reform: