At the first-ever Ghana CEO-Presidential Gala Dinner, business leaders urged the government to establish a unified, long-term national development framework to drive sustainable economic growth. These leaders, led by Ernest De-Graft Egyir, CEO of the Chief Executives Network, stressed the need for policy continuity beyond political cycles. A cohesive framework, they argued, would create a stable business environment, attract investment, and address socio-economic challenges.
In his keynote speech, “Reigniting the Business Economy and Social Contract for Growth: A Business Manifesto for Political Accountability and Sustainable Development,” Mr. De-Graft Egyir outlined five key strategies for achieving this vision. He proposed the creation of a Permanent Business Advisory Council to maintain consistent dialogue between the government and private sector, ensuring that policies reflect economic realities. He emphasized that bureaucratic inefficiencies continue to hinder investment and proposed a regulatory overhaul to improve the business environment for domestic and international investors alike.
One of the key points discussed was governance accountability, ensuring that leaders are held responsible for fulfilling campaign promises and maintaining continuity in development programs. Mr. De-Graft Egyir also highlighted the potential of Ghana’s digital economy as a major driver of growth, urging investment in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and workforce development.
Furthermore, Mr. De-Graft Egyir advocated for evidence-based policymaking driven by comprehensive data collection. He suggested that data-driven decisions would enable Ghana to adapt more effectively to global economic changes and seize emerging opportunities, ensuring the country remains competitive in the evolving global economy.
The business leaders called for the framework to prioritize sustainability and resilience, ensuring that economic planning is both inclusive and environmentally conscious. This long-term vision would help Ghana align with global development trends and strengthen its position as a competitive player in Africa’s economy.
The gala was a platform for collaboration between the public and private sectors, with business executives, government officials, and industry stakeholders uniting around a shared vision of long-term economic progress. This gathering reinforced the commitment of Ghana’s business community to work towards a stable, resilient, and prosperous future. Through strategic collaboration and a focus on long-term growth, the call for a unified national development framework represents a significant step toward achieving economic transformation that benefits future generations.
The overall sentiment at the event was clear: Ghana needs a sustainable, long-term economic framework that transcends political change, fosters investor confidence, and addresses the key challenges facing the nation’s economic future
