Africa News from a Ghanaian Lens

Africa news covered from a Ghanaian lens: regional politics, economies, and the events shaping the continent. Curated from leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Human Rights Watch Reports Grave Abuses Against Civilians by Malian Army and Islamic Militants
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Human Rights Watch Reports Grave Abuses Against Civilians by Malian Army and Islamic Militants

A recent report by Human Rights Watch has uncovered a disturbing escalation of grave abuses against civilians in Mali, committed by both the national armed forces and insurgent groups. The findings highlight a grim reality where non-combatants are increasingly caught in the crossfire of renewed fighting. According to the international watchdog, the violence has reached a critical point, with both the Malian army and Islamic militants, specifically the Al-Qaeda-linked Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), implicated in widespread human rights violations that continue to destabilize the Sahel region. The report provides harrowing details of operations led by the Malian armed forces that resulted in the deaths of at least 38 civilians. Most alarmingly, 23 of the victims were identified as children, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the military's current strategy during its counter-insurgency operations. These incidents occurred amidst a broader backdrop of intensified military campaigns aimed at reclaiming territory from insurgent groups, yet the heavy toll on civilian life suggests a persistent failure to distinguish between combatants and innocent residents. The documentation of these killings points to a troubling culture of impunity within the security forces, which remains a primary concern for international human rights observers. Simultaneously, JNIM fighters have been accused of perpetrating severe atrocities as part of their campaign against the state. The report highlights a coordinated assault on the capital, Bamako, and its surrounding areas, marking a significant escalation in the militants' reach and their ability to strike major urban centers. These attacks are often characterized by indiscriminate violence intended to destabilize the central government and exert control over local populations. The interplay between state-led operations and militant retaliation has created a volatile environment where the safety of Malian citizens is frequently sacrificed for tactical military gains. The ongoing conflict has triggered a massive humanitarian crisis, forcing thousands of Malians to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries. Witnesses have described a landscape of fear, marked by accounts of extrajudicial killings and the constant threat of violence from all warring parties. Human Rights Watch emphasizes that the lack of accountability for these crimes continues to fuel a vicious cycle of violence. Without significant international pressure and domestic reform to ensure justice for victims, the humanitarian situation in Mali is expected to deteriorate further, leaving millions at risk in a region already plagued by chronic instability.

Switzerland Returns 18 Stolen Benin Bronzes to Nigeria as Global Repatriation Efforts Intensify
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Switzerland Returns 18 Stolen Benin Bronzes to Nigeria as Global Repatriation Efforts Intensify

Swiss authorities have officially returned 18 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing international movement to repatriate cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. The handover took place during a formal ceremony at the National Museum in Lagos, where Swiss officials transferred the items to Nigerian authorities. This restitution is part of a broader, accelerating trend across Europe and the West to return historical treasures that were seized from African nations under colonial rule, reflecting a growing global acknowledgment of the historical injustices surrounding these acquisitions.The collection returned by Switzerland includes a diverse range of artifacts, most notably a bronze bracelet and four Ikom monoliths. These items were originally part of the vast cultural wealth of the Kingdom of Benin, which was systematically looted by British forces during a punitive expedition in 1897. While the artifacts passed through various hands and eventually into Swiss collections, Swiss officials at the ceremony acknowledged the "painful history" associated with these pieces. Their return is seen as a step toward reconciliation and a recognition of Nigeria's rightful ownership of its cultural heritage.During the ceremony, Nigeria's Culture Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, emphasized the profound cultural and spiritual significance of the returned bronzes. She highlighted that these items are not merely artistic objects but essential fragments of Nigeria's national identity and history. The return of these specific items, particularly the Ikom monoliths, underscores the diversity of the artifacts being reclaimed and the commitment of the Nigerian government to secure the return of its heritage from various international jurisdictions.While the return of the bronzes is celebrated as a diplomatic and cultural victory, it also brings to the fore complex internal discussions within Nigeria regarding the final custody of the items. As more artifacts return from various countries, the Nigerian government faces ongoing challenges in determining the permanent placement and management of these treasures among national museums and traditional leadership institutions. Nevertheless, the Swiss restitution adds momentum to the continental push for the return of African heritage, setting a precedent for other nations to follow suit in addressing the legacy of colonial-era looting.

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MTN Group Achieves Historic Second-Place Global Ranking in 2026 Digital Rights Index

MTN Group, the leading telecommunications provider in Africa, has secured the second position globally in the 2026 Ranking Digital Rights (RDR) Index. This achievement marks a significant milestone in corporate accountability, as MTN becomes the first telecommunications company from an emerging market to break into the top three of this prestigious international ranking. The leap from sixth place in previous evaluations to second place underscores the company's aggressive efforts to align its operations with international human rights standards and transparent governance. The Ranking Digital Rights Index is a critical benchmark that evaluates the world’s most powerful technology and telecommunications companies on their policies and practices regarding fundamental human rights. In the 2026 assessment, MTN Group attained a score of 42 out of 100. This improved performance is largely attributed to the company’s enhanced transparency and the implementation of more robust governance measures. Specifically, the Index recognized MTN’s advancements in disclosing how it handles user data and its efforts to protect the digital rights of its millions of subscribers across diverse regulatory landscapes. Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, highlighted the significance of this recognition, stating that it reflects the company’s deep-seated commitment to protecting digital rights and ensuring ethical connectivity. Morafo emphasized that while the company celebrates this achievement, it remains focused on refining its approach to safeguard user privacy and promote digital inclusion. The group has focused on balancing the expansion of connectivity in Africa with the necessity of maintaining high ethical standards in data management and governance. As digital connectivity becomes increasingly central to economic and social life across the continent, MTN’s ranking signals a shift toward greater accountability for African-based multinationals. The company’s focus on governance disclosures and user protection provides a blueprint for other emerging market firms navigating complex regulatory environments. Looking forward, MTN aims to continue addressing emerging risks in the digital space, ensuring that its growth does not come at the expense of the fundamental rights of its users.

Narcotics Control Commission and Police Escalate Anti-Drug Efforts in Ghana's Ashanti Region
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Narcotics Control Commission and Police Escalate Anti-Drug Efforts in Ghana's Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Regional Command of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) and the Ghana Police Service have launched a multi-pronged offensive against drug trafficking and peddling across the Ashanti Region. This intensified effort combines community education with strategic enforcement, as authorities seek to dismantle the logistical networks used by drug cartels. NACOC has specifically targeted commercial tricycle and motorbike riders—key components of the local transport system—following intelligence reports that these operators are increasingly being exploited by traffickers to move illicit substances. Regional Commander Samuel Yeboah highlighted that intelligence indicates riders are frequently used for transport, necessitating a shift toward proactive community engagement. During a sensitization program, Commander Yeboah issued a stern warning to motorists, highlighting the severe legal repercussions of involvement in drug transport. Convicted offenders face mandatory prison sentences ranging from 10 to 25 years. This initiative has been welcomed by local transport leaders, including Abu Sadick, Chairman of the Adedeta Tricycle Association, who emphasized that the program is vital for changing the attitudes of riders. Riders are now being urged to practice due diligence by verifying the contents of any packages they are hired to transport and reporting suspicious activities to the authorities to avoid falling victim to criminal exploitation. Complementing these preventive measures, the Mankranso District Police successfully conducted a targeted operation in Kunsu Township on June 26, 2026. This raid resulted in the arrest of four suspects: Issaka Musah (22), Amankwah Emmanuel (25), Kwame Boateng (32), and Appiah Prince (23). During the operation, police recovered a cache of illegal items, including a pistol, suspected cocaine, cannabis, and Tramadol, along with GH"5,647.40 in cash. The suspects are currently in custody and are assisting with ongoing investigations as they prepare to face formal charges in court, representing a significant blow to local peddling syndicates. Despite these successes, NACOC officials have pointed to significant resource constraints that continue to hamper their operations. Commander Yeboah appealed for increased government and private sector support, noting the urgent need for more office space and specialized equipment to effectively combat the evolving tactics of drug traffickers. The Commission maintains that a collaborative approach, involving both vigilant public participation and well-resourced law enforcement agencies, is essential to eradicating the drug menace and maintaining public safety in the region.

GCAA Probes KLM Following Reports of Passenger Mistreatment on Amsterdam-Accra Flight
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GCAA Probes KLM Following Reports of Passenger Mistreatment on Amsterdam-Accra Flight

The Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has officially launched an investigation into KLM Royal Dutch Airlines following allegations of passenger mistreatment on a recent flight from Amsterdam to Accra. The regulatory probe focuses on Flight KL059, which was scheduled to land at Kotoka International Airport on June 27, 2026. This move by the aviation regulator highlights growing concerns over the quality of service and the protection of traveler rights within the Ghanaian airspace. The investigation was prompted by the widespread circulation of videos on social media, where frustrated travelers were seen voicing their grievances. These recordings captured scenes of stranded passengers expressing significant anger over their treatment upon arrival in Accra. The visual evidence and subsequent public outcry forced the GCAA to intervene to determine the circumstances that led to the distress of the travelers on the Amsterdam-Accra route. While the specific nature of the operational failures has not been fully detailed by the GCAA, the authority is expected to scrutinize the airline's protocols regarding passenger care and communication. The probe will likely examine whether KLM adhered to international aviation standards and local regulations governing the treatment of passengers during delays or service disruptions. The GCAA’s involvement serves as a formal response to the documented frustrations of those on board Flight KL059. As the investigation proceeds, the GCAA is expected to engage with both the affected passengers and KLM management to reconcile the accounts of the incident. This case underscores the regulatory body's commitment to ensuring that international carriers maintain high standards of service and accountability. The outcome of this probe could lead to regulatory sanctions or mandatory improvements in KLM's passenger handling procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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National Peace Council Establishes Local Peace Committee in Kongo to Curb Violent Extremism

The National Peace Council (NPC) has inaugurated a nine-member Local Peace Committee (LPC) in Kongo, located in the Tempane District, as part of a strategic move to fortify peacebuilding and prevent violent extremism in the region. This initiative forms a critical component of the "Governance, Rule of Law, and Peacebuilding for Sustainable Development Project," a collaborative effort between the NPC and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Supported by international funding from Denmark, Norway, and South Korea, the project aims to establish grassroots mechanisms that can address local tensions before they escalate into larger conflicts. The formation of the committee followed an intensive two-day training workshop led by NPC representatives, including Mr. Damien Asobayire. The training was designed to equip the committee members and community monitors with the professional skills needed for conflict resolution and mediation. A key focus of the curriculum was the identification of early warning signs, which allows the committee to facilitate timely interventions. Mr. Asobayire emphasized that the role of these local mediators is to facilitate dialogue and understanding rather than to impose external decisions on the community. To ensure the committee is representative of the community it serves, the NPC selected nine members from diverse groups, including youth and women leaders. This inclusive structure is particularly aimed at addressing local land-related tensions and farmland disputes, which have been identified as primary sources of friction in the Tempane District. By empowering local leaders with mediation techniques, the project seeks to foster social cohesion and ensure that disputes are settled through peaceful negotiation rather than confrontation. Following the workshop, the committee developed a formal action plan to guide their peace maintenance efforts and community advocacy. Participants expressed high levels of confidence in their newly acquired skills, pledging to serve as proactive agents of peace. As the committee begins its work, the NPC expects this decentralized approach to serve as a sustainable model for maintaining stability and promoting peaceful coexistence across the Upper East Region.

Ghana and African Neighbors Evacuate Thousands as South Africa Braces for June 30 Anti-Immigration Protests
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Ghana and African Neighbors Evacuate Thousands as South Africa Braces for June 30 Anti-Immigration Protests

Ghana's High Commission in South Africa has successfully relocated nearly 900 Ghanaian nationals to secure locations as African nations scramble to protect their citizens ahead of planned anti-immigration protests scheduled for June 30. Ambassador Benjamin Quashie, coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President, confirmed that these individuals have registered for voluntary repatriation following a surge in xenophobic tensions across the country. This latest move follows the successful return of 938 Ghanaians in a previous exercise, with the current group being housed in safe havens under police protection while waiting for travel arrangements to be finalized. The situation has triggered a wider regional crisis, with security forces reporting that over 25,000 foreign nationals have been repatriated in recent weeks. Uganda has announced the evacuation of 746 of its citizens, including the provision of emergency travel documents and special charter flights via Uganda Airlines at no cost to returnees, following the confirmed death of one Ugandan national in recent violence. Meanwhile, thousands of migrants from Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are reportedly queuing at consulates in Durban and Cape Town, desperate to leave before a citizen-led ultimatum for undocumented migrants to exit the country expires. In response to the escalating risks, Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a formal travel advisory, urging all citizens to avoid non-essential travel to South Africa. The advisory highlights the high risk of intimidation and violence against foreign African nationals during the nationwide demonstrations. Ghanaians already in South Africa are advised to remain vigilant, limit their movements, and maintain constant communication with the High Commission in Pretoria. While South African authorities have provided assurances of maintaining public order, the heavy deployment of police in protest hotspots underscores the severity of the security threat facing foreign nationals. The current unrest is rooted in deep-seated economic frustrations within South Africa, where the national unemployment rate remains near 30%. While President Cyril Ramaphosa has publicly warned against scapegoating immigrants for domestic issues, the violence has already claimed at least four lives and led to 195 arrests since March. As the June 30 deadline approaches, the diplomatic community remains focused on ensuring the safe passage of vulnerable migrants and preventing further escalations of violence in what has become a recurring challenge for regional stability and African unity.

Accra Paralyzed by Record Rainfall: Government Deploys Emergency Teams and Calls for National Flood Action Plan
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Accra Paralyzed by Record Rainfall: Government Deploys Emergency Teams and Calls for National Flood Action Plan

Parts of Southern Ghana, including the capital Accra, Tema, and Kasoa, have been plunged into a state of emergency following exceptionally heavy rainfall that has caused widespread flooding and gridlock. On June 29, recording stations noted approximately 140 millimeters of rainfall in a single day—a figure described by President John Dramani Mahama as one of the most severe in recent years. The torrential downpour has submerged major roadways and residential areas, prompting the Ministry of the Interior to deploy a joint emergency task force comprising the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana National Fire Service, and the Ghana Armed Forces to assist stranded citizens and monitor high-risk zones. In response to the crisis, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo directed all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to intensify rescue efforts and provide immediate relief to affected communities. The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has also taken strategic steps to ensure public safety, with Chief Executive Michael Kpakpo Allotey ordering VIP bus drivers to relocate from the Kwame Nkrumah Flyover area to the ATTC yard. This directive follows alarming reports of vehicles being swept away by floodwaters and is intended to prevent further loss of life while improving traffic flow at critical intersections. The recurring nature of these floods has sparked intense debate among political leaders and environmental experts regarding Ghana's disaster preparedness. While Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia expressed deep sympathy for the victims and urged the public to comply strictly with National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) directives, others have called for more radical structural changes. Environmental advocate Krobea Asante, CEO of Drink Safe Water Ghana Limited, labeled the recurring crisis a "national shame" and proposed the implementation of a comprehensive National Flood Action Plan. This sentiment was echoed by President Mahama, who attributed the worsening situation to a combination of climate change, inadequate drainage infrastructure, and rapid urban development. Beyond the political sphere, prominent Ghanaian voices have joined the call for collective action and personal responsibility. Award-winning musician Stonebwoy urged citizens to stop disposing of waste in drains, emphasizing that flood prevention is a shared duty, while rapper M.anifest lamented the predictable nature of the disaster. Meanwhile, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has highlighted logistical gaps, specifically calling for the procurement of fully equipped rescue boats to improve their response capacity. With further rainfall forecasted, authorities remain on high alert, advising residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground and report emergencies immediately.

The Very Rev. Prof. J. K. Asamoah-Gyadu, Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana
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Death Toll Rises to Nine and Infrastructure Falters as Torrential Rains Ravage Greater Accra

Severe flooding triggered by torrential rainfall has claimed at least nine lives across the Greater Accra Region, with nine other individuals reported missing in the Awutu Senya East Municipality. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed the rising death toll as rescue operations intensify in submerged communities. Among the identified victims is 25-year-old Michael Ofori Tachie, who was electrocuted during the deluge, and a man in his 60s whose body was discovered along the Alajo railway line. In the Awutu Senya East Municipality, a desperate search is underway for three people swept away while seeking safety, alongside a mother and her two children who remain unaccounted for after being caught in strong currents. The capital's infrastructure has been severely crippled, with major arteries including the N1 Highway, Mallam, Spintex, and Kaneshie becoming impassable. At Tse Addo, numerous vehicles were nearly entirely submerged by rapidly rising waters. To prevent further casualties and protect equipment, the Ghana Grid Company Limited (GRIDCo) and the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) were forced to temporarily shut down the Mallam and Achimota substations, leading to widespread power outages. Amidst the chaos, a peculiar scene unfolded along the Tema Motorway where residents engaged in a "shopping spree," retrieving provisions, gas cylinders, and electronic gadgets swept out of a warehouse by the floodwaters. Institutional responses have been swift but remain stretched. The Methodist Church of Ghana, led by Presiding Bishop The Most Rev. Prof. Johnson K. Asamoah-Gyadu, has opened its facilities to provide temporary shelter for those displaced by the rains. Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and the GNFS are conducting active rescues, particularly in low-lying areas like Alajo where residents have pleaded for help for stranded elderly family members. Academic activities have also been disrupted, with the University of Ghana and other tertiary institutions postponing examinations due to the hazardous conditions. The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) has warned that the crisis is far from over, predicting continued rainfall and thunderstorms throughout the week. Meteorologist Frederick Cudjoe attributed the intensity of the downpours to a storm system moving westward from the Togo-Benin coastline, which has already caused significant flooding in Lomé. As the region remains on high alert, the disaster has renewed urgent calls for improved drainage infrastructure and stricter enforcement of building regulations on waterways. Experts warn that without proactive climate adaptation measures and sustainable urban planning, the financial and human costs of these recurring weather events will continue to escalate.

Angelina Accuses Mother-in-Law Maame Akosua Appiah of Inappropriate Affair with Husband Phillip Attobrah
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Angelina Accuses Mother-in-Law Maame Akosua Appiah of Inappropriate Affair with Husband Phillip Attobrah

In a dramatic public confrontation that has captured social media attention, a Ghanaian woman named Angelina has appeared on live television to level grave allegations against her mother-in-law and husband. Angelina claims that her mother-in-law, Maame Akosua Appiah, has been involved in an inappropriate and illicit relationship with her own son, Phillip Yaw Attobrah, who is Angelina's husband. The shocking disclosure was made during a media appearance on June 28, 2026, where Angelina sought to bring public awareness to what she describes as a deep betrayal of familial and marital bonds. According to Angelina’s account, the roots of her suspicions trace back to the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. During the mandatory lockdown periods that restricted movement across Ghana, Phillip reportedly moved into his mother’s residence. It was during this period of cohabitation that Angelina says she began noticing irregularities in their behavior, leading her to believe that the relationship between the mother and son had crossed ethical and traditional boundaries. The duration of these alleged activities spans several years, culminating in Angelina’s decision to take the matter to a public forum after years of internal struggle. The incident highlights a growing trend in the use of media platforms to resolve or broadcast extreme domestic grievances within the community. While the allegations remain unverified by independent legal or traditional authorities, the public nature of the broadcast has sparked intense debate regarding family dynamics and the sanctity of marriage. As the video continues to circulate, many are looking to see if Maame Akosua Appiah or Phillip Yaw Attobrah will issue a formal response or if traditional family elders will intervene to mediate this highly sensitive and scandalous dispute.

BoG Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama Urges African Nations to Strengthen Domestic Debt Markets Following Ghana's Recovery
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BoG Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama Urges African Nations to Strengthen Domestic Debt Markets Following Ghana's Recovery

Dr. Johnson Asiama, the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, has called on African central banks to prioritize the development of resilient and diversified domestic debt markets as a cornerstone for economic stability. Speaking at the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Roundtable of Governors from African Central Banks on June 27, 2026, Dr. Asiama underscored that Ghana's recent journey through an economic crisis and its subsequent path to recovery serve as a critical blueprint for the continent. He argued that developing deep, liquid capital markets is no longer merely a policy preference but a strategic necessity to ensure financial stability and support long-term development goals. The Governor highlighted that as African nations increasingly pivot toward domestic borrowing to fund infrastructure and manage fiscal deficits, the vulnerabilities of shallow markets have become more pronounced. He emphasized that the lessons learned from Ghana’s economic recovery demonstrate how a robust domestic debt infrastructure can effectively mitigate risks associated with external shocks and volatile global capital flows. By fostering more sophisticated market environments, countries can better absorb economic pressures while providing a stable foundation for sustainable growth and investor confidence across the region. Looking ahead, Dr. Asiama advocated for comprehensive structural reforms across the African continent to enhance the transparency and efficiency of domestic capital markets. He noted that the shift toward self-reliance in debt management requires intentional collaboration among central banks to share best practices and harmonize regulatory frameworks. The Governor’s remarks reflect a growing consensus among African financial leaders that domestic resource mobilization and strong internal financial architectures are the most viable paths toward achieving long-term economic independence and resilience in an increasingly unpredictable global economic landscape.

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ActionAid Ghana Empowers Rural Women in Banda District with Soap-Making Vocational Training

ActionAid Ghana, in collaboration with its Italian partners, has launched a targeted economic empowerment initiative in the Banda District of the Bono Region to address rising poverty levels among rural women. Focusing on communities such as Wiewa, Bofie, and Biema, the program seeks to provide sustainable livelihoods for mothers who have historically faced limited employment opportunities. The initiative recently celebrated a milestone as seven women completed a comprehensive soap-making training program, equipping them with the practical skills necessary to transition into entrepreneurship. The project involved a total financial commitment of GH¢51,400, which covered the costs of professional instruction and the procurement of essential production equipment. Unlike many training schemes that end at graduation, this program ensured each participant received the tools required to launch their own business immediately. Local officials have praised the investment, noting that removing the financial barrier to entry is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of these small-scale soap-making ventures and the economic resilience of the participants. Beyond the immediate financial benefits for the seven beneficiaries, the program is expected to have a significant ripple effect on the wider community. By empowering women to generate their own income, the initiative aims to improve family welfare and increase household investment in children's education and health. This strategic intervention by ActionAid Ghana highlights the vital role of vocational training in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering gender-inclusive development in Ghana’s rural sectors, ultimately contributing to more stable and prosperous local economies.