Ghana's Development: A collective responsibility

As Ghana celebrates its independence every year, the hope for development remains high.

However, 68 years on, progress has been slow, and the country seems stagnant.

The root cause of this stagnation is leadership failure.

Effective leadership is crucial for development, yet Ghana has been led by individuals whose primary experience is in politics, often lacking real-world experience.

The country's problems are multifaceted: corruption, ineptocracy, dependence on natural resources, lack of industrialisation, poverty, and inequality.

To move forward, Ghana needs good governance, economic diversification, infrastructure development, human capital development, and private sector growth.

Key areas for development

1. Education: Revamp the school curriculum to focus on entrepreneurship, financial management, and practical skills.

Encourage private sector participation in education to reduce government expenditure.

2. National Service: Deploy personnel to productive sectors like agriculture and provide them with employable skills.

3. Agriculture: Promote mechanization and organic farming and provide access to land and machinery for youth.

4. Sanitation: Implement strict sanitation laws and encourage waste recycling.

5. Social Services: Establish care homes for mental health support and promote family values.

6. Security: Enhance community security through CCTV and lighting systems.

7. Decentralisation: Empower local governments to promote effective administration.

8. Productivity: Implement payment by results to boost productivity.

9. Digitalisation: Automate tax collection and digitalize VAT invoices.

10. Private Sector Empowerment: Create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Attitudinal change

Indiscipline and dishonesty are major obstacles to Ghana's development.

The education system and family values must prioritise instilling discipline and honesty.

Sanctions should be imposed on those who flout the law.

If these measures fail, Ghana should consider a Build-Operate-and-Transfer arrangement with foreigners to develop the country.