In a bold move to deepen national dialogue on Ghana’s long-term development direction, the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) has announced plans to embark on nationwide consultations aimed at shaping sustainable development strategies in an increasingly dynamic global environment.
The consultations, which will be led by the Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, are scheduled to take place from 18th February to 27th March 2026, and will engage key stakeholders across all regions of the country.
According to the Commission, the initiative comes at a time when rapid shifts in the world economy are creating both new opportunities and emerging challenges for developing nations such as Ghana. The NDPC believes that broad-based engagement is essential to ensure that Ghana’s development path remains resilient, inclusive, and responsive to global realities.
Responding to a Rapidly Changing Global Economy
In its press release issued on February 11, the NDPC noted that Ghana is currently witnessing significant improvements in major macroeconomic indicators. These include notable reductions in inflation and interest rates, as well as the historic appreciation of the Ghana cedi against the United States dollar.
The Commission attributed much of this stability to Ghana’s ongoing programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which began in 2023. It further cited favourable commodity price trends—particularly in gold—as well as fiscal reforms spearheaded by the Ministry of Finance, which have helped reduce waste in public spending.
However, the NDPC cautioned that with the IMF programme expected to conclude in 2026, the country must urgently begin planning for a new phase of development that is less dependent on external support and more grounded in domestic productivity and diversification.
A Shift Toward Resilient and Employment-Intensive Growth
The Commission stressed that the post-IMF period presents an important turning point for Ghana’s economic future. As such, the nationwide consultations will focus on developing strategies to transition from macroeconomic stability toward a more diversified, resilient, and employment-intensive economy.
Central to the discussions will be the Ghana Infrastructure Plan (GIP), launched by the President in October 2025. The NDPC described the infrastructure plan as a key pillar in Ghana’s development framework and a major component of the upcoming consultations.
The Commission believes that infrastructure investment, if properly aligned with local economic development priorities, can accelerate national growth while creating jobs and enhancing competitiveness.
Engaging Traditional Authorities and Regional Institutions
The NDPC’s regional consultations will involve all 16 Regional Coordinating Councils, alongside traditional authorities, including the various houses of chiefs.
The Commission explained that these engagements are grounded in its broader strategy of promoting local economic development as the foundation of a successful national development agenda.
By involving local leadership structures, the NDPC aims to ensure that regional perspectives, priorities, and development challenges are fully reflected in national planning processes.
Parliamentary and Political Party Consultations Ahead
Following the regional sessions, the Commission will also hold engagements with leaders of Parliament, parliamentary caucuses representing the regions, and political parties across the country.
The NDPC stated that these discussions will cover critical governance and policy-related themes, including:
The introduction of a policy and legislative almanac to guide political party manifesto preparation
Results-based management approaches for political and party leadership
An overview of the post-war global economy and its implications for Ghana and other developing countries
The inclusion of political parties in the consultations signals the Commission’s commitment to building a development consensus that transcends partisan lines and fosters continuity in national development planning.
Experienced Team to Support the National Tour
Dr. Thompson will be accompanied by Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, the Director-General of the Commission, who brings extensive experience working with district assemblies, regional administrations, and senior policy analysts.
The NDPC noted that the consultation team will also be joined at each stop by the current representative of the respective region on the Commission, ensuring strong regional participation and coordination.
Building a Shared Vision for Ghana’s Future
The NDPC’s nationwide consultations represent a significant step in Ghana’s efforts to chart a clear, forward-looking development agenda at a time of global uncertainty and domestic transition.
As Ghana prepares for the end of its IMF-supported programme, the Commission believes that inclusive planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic national dialogue will be crucial in building a prosperous and sustainable future.
The Commission has therefore called on regional authorities, political actors, civil society, and the general public to actively participate in the consultations to help shape the next chapter of Ghana’s development journey.
