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Ghana's cocoa industry stands as a pillar of the nation's economy, not only for its significant contribution to GDP and export earnings but also for the livelihoods it supports within rural communities. However, the sustainability of this vital sector is under threat from various environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil degradation, and climate change. Recognizing these challenges, Ghana has embarked on a transformative journey towards sustainable agriculture practices that promise to secure the future of cocoa production while safeguarding the environment. One of the most notable initiatives is the collaboration between the Ghanaian government, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Forestry Commission, and the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), with support from the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO). This partnership has launched the Green Commodities Programme (GCP), which aims to combat deforestation and forest degradation, improve...

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become a pivotal aspect of modern business practices, reflecting a company's commitment to sustainable and ethical operations. In Ghana, a number of companies have distinguished themselves through exemplary ESG practices, earning recognition for their efforts to integrate sustainability into their core business strategies. One such company is Deloitte Ghana, which has been honored with the title of Africa ESG Company of the Year 2024. This prestigious award was presented at the Worlds Safety Day 2024 and the Africa Resilient ESG and Sustainability Awards. Deloitte Ghana's approach to ESG has been holistic and forward-thinking, encompassing a range of initiatives from promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace to implementing sustainable business practices and making an impact that benefits both people and the planet. Another notable example is the work being done at Newmont’s Ahafo Mine, where the Net P...

In the realm of democratic governance, the power of speech is undeniable. Political appointees, as representatives of the people, wield this power to inform, persuade, and guide the public. However, the true value of a political speech lies not in its rhetoric but in the evidence that underpins its claims. A speech devoid of verifiable data, clear strategies, and tangible outcomes is not only unproductive but also undermines the very principles of transparency and accountability that form the bedrock of democracy. The litmus test for any political speech is its ability to address and quantify the impact of policies on poverty reduction.  Merely claiming the creation of "decent jobs" or going to create "decent jobs" is insufficient; such claims require substantiation with evidence that illustrates how these jobs have or about to contribute to poverty alleviation . Without this, the speech is nothing more than empty promises. Similarly, addressing the frequency of...

In recent years, the concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) has gained significant traction globally, and Ghana is no exception. The integration of ESG factors into corporate strategies, risk management, and reporting is becoming increasingly important for businesses operating within the country. This article provides an overview of the regulatory environment in Ghana concerning ESG and its impact on business operations. The Emergence of ESG in Ghana Ghana's commitment to sustainable development has led to the adoption of various ESG-related regulations. These regulations aim to ensure that companies operate responsibly, taking into account environmental protection, social equity, and effective governance. The main ESG disclosure regulations in Ghana include the Securities and Exchange Commission Regulations, 2003 (L.I. 1728), the Environmental Assessment Regulations, 1999 (L.I. 1652), and the Securities and Exchange Commission Corporate Governance Code for List...

In Ghana, political manifestos are the blueprints that outline the vision, policies, and plans of political parties. However, the effectiveness and accountability of these manifestos are often questioned. This article explores the need for a paradigm shift in how political manifestos are crafted, monitored, and evaluated, focusing on key areas such as Health, Education, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Jobs, Social Protection, and Good Governance. Why Must We Wait Four Years to Evaluate a Government? Every four years, Ghanaians head to the polls to decide their future leaders. This period often feels like a long wait, especially when there are pressing issues that require immediate attention. Why must we wait for an entire electoral cycle before evaluating the performance of a government? Continuous and periodic evaluation would ensure that the government remains accountable and responsive to the needs of the people throughout its tenure. The Absence of SMART Objectives in Manifesto ...

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become a pivotal aspect of investment strategies globally, and Ghana is no exception. The integration of ESG factors into investment decisions reflects a growing awareness among investors that sustainable business practices are crucial for long-term profitability and risk management. This article delves into the current trends in ESG investing in Ghana and examines how investors are playing a critical role in promoting sustainable practices among companies. The Rise of ESG Investing in Ghana Ghana's financial institutions have been aligning with global ESG development trends, recognizing the importance of sustainability in driving innovation, market resilience, and a sustainable economy. The Ghana Sustainable Banking Principles (GSBPs), launched in 2019, marked a significant step towards integrating ESG considerations into the financial sector. These principles guide banks in managing environmental and social risks and i...

  In the vibrant and dynamic landscape of Ghana, success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. The avenues to achieving recognition and opening doors to opportunities are as diverse as the people themselves. This article delves into the multifaceted paths Ghanaians can take to carve their niches in society. The Power of Education A degree in Ghana is more than just a certificate; it's a key that unlocks numerous doors. It represents years of hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge. With a strong educational background, individuals are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the professional world, making them attractive candidates in the competitive job market. The Legacy of a Family Name In many societies, a family name carries weight, and Ghana is no exception. A reputable family name can be a catalyst for opportunities, providing an edge in various social and professional circles. It's a testament to the legacy and reputation built over generations, often...

  In the face of the escalating climate crisis, Ghanaian companies are stepping up to the challenge by implementing innovative adaptation strategies. These strategies are not only mitigating the impacts of climate change but are also setting a precedent for sustainable business practices in the region. Ghana's geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. The country's economy, heavily reliant on agriculture, is at risk due to changing weather patterns, erratic rainfall, and increasing temperatures. Recognizing these threats, Ghanaian businesses are actively seeking solutions to adapt and thrive. One of the key strategies employed by these companies is the integration of climate-smart agricultural practices. By adopting drought-resistant crops, utilizing efficient irrigation systems, and implementing soil conservation techniques, businesses are enhancing their resilience to climate variability. This approach not only secures ...

  In the realm of corporate governance, the concept of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria has become a pivotal point of focus for businesses worldwide. In Ghana, the 'Social' component of ESG is garnering significant attention as companies strive to enhance their community engagement and social responsibility. This article examines how businesses in Ghana are actively engaging with local communities and addressing social issues, thereby contributing to the broader vision of sustainable development. The Power of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Ghana has evolved from mere philanthropy to a strategic business practice that integrates social welfare into the corporate ethos. Companies are increasingly recognizing that their growth is intertwined with the well-being of the communities they serve. A report by The Business & Financial Times highlights the transformative power of CSR in empowering communities and ...

  Ghana is at the forefront of a renewable energy revolution, making significant strides towards environmental sustainability and aligning with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. The nation's commitment to renewable energy is evident in its ambitious policies and initiatives that aim to transform the energy landscape. The Ghana Energy Transition and Investment Plan, launched during the UN General Assembly in September 2023, marks a significant milestone in the country's journey towards a sustainable future. This comprehensive plan outlines a pathway to achieve net-zero energy-related carbon emissions by 2060, a decade ahead of its previous target. It is a bold statement of intent, reflecting Ghana's increased ambition in the fight against climate change and its dedication to economic development. Investment opportunities abound, with the plan representing a USD 550 billion opportunity for international investors. The successful implementation of this pla...

  Humans have long pondered the meaning of happiness and contentment, often viewing them as the ultimate goals in life. However, from a biological standpoint, it appears that humans, like all creatures, are designed primarily for survival and reproduction. This perspective suggests that a state of contentment could potentially be detrimental to our vigilance against threats, thereby hindering our survival instincts. The natural world is a testament to this survival instinct. The lion, for example, does not rise each day with the goal of happiness but rather to be the fastest, to ensure it catches its prey, the gazelles. Similarly, the antelope awakens with the intention of outrunning the fastest lion, its survival hinging on its speed and alertness. This relentless cycle of predator and prey highlights the intrinsic drive to survive that is embedded in all living creatures. The journey of a river to the ocean is never a straight path; it twists and turns, overcoming obstacles, ...

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become a cornerstone of modern financial practices worldwide. In Ghana, the financial sector is increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating ESG principles to foster sustainable growth and resilience. This article explores how Ghana's financial institutions are adapting to ESG criteria and what the future holds for ESG in the financial sector. The Journey Towards ESG Integration Ghana's journey towards ESG integration began in earnest with the establishment of the Ghana Sustainable Banking Principles (GSBPs) in 2019. These principles were developed to guide financial institutions in incorporating sustainability into their operations, ensuring that environmental and social risks are managed effectively. The Bank of Ghana (BoG), in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), has been instrumental in promoting these principles, providing training and resources to banks to facilitate their i...

As this year’s batch of the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), administered by the West Africa Examination Certificate (WAEC) in Ghana , draws to a close , private schools are hopeful that the marking and placement processes will be conducted fairly, earning the admiration of both public and private BECE institutions . In recent years, private BECE schools have raised concerns about perceived discrimination in the assessment and placement of their candidates into senior secondary schools . The core of these allegations revolves around the computerized system used for selecting BECE candidates, which some believe is manipulated by human intervention . Allegations of Unfair Placement Private school stakeholders argue that the current system unfairly disadvantages their students. They claim that when a candidate from a private school selects six different schools for placement, a slight drop in their first-choice preference often results in the system assigning them t...

In recent years, Ghana has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability and transparency in business practices. This transformation is largely driven by the increasing adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting. ESG reporting is a framework that helps companies disclose their impact on the environment, society, and their governance practices, providing stakeholders with a comprehensive view of their operations. Recent Developments in ESG Reporting The Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) has been at the forefront of promoting ESG reporting among listed companies. The GSE has implemented a phased approach to ESG reporting, aligning with global sustainability standards to enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses. This initiative is part of a broader effort to integrate sustainability into the core operations of companies, ensuring long-term resilience and growth. Additionally, the financial sector in Ghana has embraced ESG certification programs. Thes...

In recent years, the corporate world has seen a significant shift towards sustainability and responsible business practices, with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors becoming a critical aspect of corporate governance. This is particularly evident in Ghana, where ESG factors are increasingly influencing corporate governance structures and strategies. Understanding ESG and Corporate Governance ESG represents a set of criteria that investors and stakeholders use to evaluate a company's ethical impact and sustainability practices. The 'E' stands for environmental stewardship, the 'S' for social responsibility, and the 'G' for governance practices. Corporate governance, on the other hand, refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes by which a company is directed and controlled. ESG's Influence on Corporate Governance in Ghana In Ghana, there is a growing recognition of the importance of ESG factors in shaping corporate gove...

In Ghana, the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) is a critical juncture in a student's educational journey, serving as both a certification mechanism and a gateway to higher education. However, a growing concern among parents and educators in the private school sector is the fairness of the continuous assessment component , which accounts for 30% of a student's final grade. The West African Examination Council (WAEC) mandates that the BECE's results are derived from both continuous assessment—encompassing class exercises and marked homework—and an external examination. While the latter constitutes the majority of the assessment with a 70% weight, the continuous assessment's 30% is significant enough to influence a student's future academic path. Parents of students in private Junior High schools have voiced apprehensions regarding the lack of a level playing field in the continuous assessment process. They argue that while private schools maintain rigo...

  The mining industry in Ghana has long been a cornerstone of the nation's economy, contributing significantly to GDP and providing employment opportunities. However, the sector is not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) concerns. As the world increasingly prioritizes sustainability, the mining industry in Ghana is under scrutiny to align with these global standards. Environmental Stewardship in Ghana's Mining Environmental considerations are paramount in the mining sector. In Ghana, companies are adopting stricter regulations to manage water, land, waste, and tailings. The Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) has been at the forefront, spearheading initiatives that promote responsible resource extraction. These efforts are crucial in mitigating the adverse environmental impacts traditionally associated with mining. Social Responsibilities and Community Engagement Social aspects of ESG encompass community engag...

In recent years, Ghana has made significant strides in integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its development agenda. This integration marks a pivotal shift towards sustainable development, aligning with global sustainability standards and ensuring long-term resilience for the nation's economy. The financial sector in Ghana has been at the forefront of this movement, with three institutions launching a certification program to align with global sustainability standards [1]. Moreover, Ecobank Ghana recently organized an ESG workshop for its clients in the manufacturing sector, highlighting the growing awareness and implementation of ESG practices within the industry [2]. The rise of ESG investing in Africa, and particularly in Ghana, presents both opportunities and challenges. As a country rich in natural resources, Ghana faces the task of balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. The introduction of the ...

  The Under-Studied Causes of Flooding in Accra: Beyond Desilting Introduction Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital, faces a recurring menace: floods. While desilting drains remains a common response, it’s time to delve deeper into the root causes. In this extended analysis, we explore the often-overlooked factors and their far-reaching consequences. The Desilting Fallacy Desilting—clearing debris and sediment from drains—has its limitations. Let’s examine the broader impact: Community Displacement and Human Suffering Issue : Flooding displaces communities, disrupting lives and livelihoods. Families lose their homes, schools, and businesses. Consequence : Displaced citizens face significant challenges in rebuilding, dealing with emotional trauma, and overcoming economic setbacks. Infrastructure Damage: Roads, Bridges, and More Issue : Floodwaters erode old and newly constructed roads, weaken bridges, and damage public facilities. Consequence : ...