Need for strategic national development - Professor Addo

Accra, June 24, GNA - Professor Kwame Addo, an Architect on Thursday said Ghana's developmental process depends on the political will of her leaders since they are the driving force of the economy. Prof. Addo made the observation at a press briefing in Accra during which he shared his vision with the media concerning the way forward for Ghana's development process.

He explained that his vision for the country was aimed at inspiring, and uplifting the general psyche through the use of creative and imaginative projects and programmes, while strengthening and communicating hope and confidence to the people. Prof. Addo pointed out that his dream would include areas like energy, infrastructural development, the oil industry, transportation, agriculture, tourism, housing and strategic planning that could help propel the country's economy through comprehensive planning and implementation. "My vision for Ghana is intended to act as a catalyst to re-interpret Ghana's development process from within her values to reflect and truly represent the aspirations of the populace by balancing informal and formal influences," he added. On water resources, Prof. Addo said the massive potential of water bodies for irrigation, productive lands and appropriate road networks, would facilitate urban and rural development. He said there must be a sustainable tourism strategy through culture, protection of forest reserves, and the eco-system as a force for the country's tourism to be developed.

Prof. Addo mentioned that the energy and environmental sectors were the main sources of the country's development. "These programmes can only come into effect where project management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation are put in place," he said, adding that the country development must be purposely planned starting with water resources and upgrading of new airports. He said there was the urgent need to focus on harmonising infrastructural development, social programmes and the societal mindset with inclusive economic growth for the benefit and welfare of the country over the medium term and beyond.