Africa must adopt best practices to enhance development

Mampong (Ash), Oct. 14, GNA - Dr. Francis Appiah, Executive Secretary of the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) has urged African States to adopt policies and best practices that would lead to political stability and high economic performance. Additionally, there should be an aggressive push towards both sub-regional and continental integration. This, he said, would undoubtedly ensure that Governments in Africa behave in a more acceptable manner. Mr. Appiah was addressing a validation workshop organised by the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) for the Asante-Mampong Municipal APRM Oversight Committee.

APRM is an African self-monitoring system under which countries voluntarily accept to undertake an internal audit of its political, economic, corporate and socio-economic governance system, to foster good governance and development. The workshop was aimed among other issues at validating a survey conducted by the oversight Committee over a wide range of issues involving democracy, good governance, socio-economic development and corporate governance. Christian and Muslim groups, traditional leaders, political parties and public workers participated. APRM, Dr. Appiah said, was fostering national dialogue, participation and empowering the citizens in national development. Besides, it is promoting transparency, openness, accountability and democracy.

"Through APRM's implementation, countries are able to identify capacity gaps, weaknesses and deficiencies and find solutions to them." Mr. Daniel Ohyeamang, Municipal Chief Executive, in a speech read on his behalf, pledged government's support for the APRM and acknowledged the tremendous contribution it is making towards the promotion of good governance in the country. He urged the Oversight Committee to discharge its duties objectively and dispassionately.

Mr. Kingsley Otchere, Chairperson of the Mampong Oversight Committee, called for the improvement of water supply and quality health care as well as access to education in the area. He also pleaded for government's support for micro and small-scale enterprises, provision of quality and affordable housing, good roads, and improvement in Information Communication Technology. 14 Oct. 09