Executive leadership programme concludes with shared vision for Ghana’s future

The government of Ghana, along with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held an Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) in Ada from April 23 to 26, 2025. This event followed Ghana's recent democratic transition and the formation of a new Cabinet. The theme was “Re-imagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana.” The programme aimed to renew public leadership and promote responsive governance.

The ELP gathered senior government officials, including Ministers and deputy ministers. It also included advisors, special guests, and representatives from the private sector and the African Development Bank. The programme featured interactive sessions designed to enhance strategic leadership and encourage collaboration among ministries. Leaders learned to navigate today's complex governance landscape.

President John Dramani Mahama emphasized that Ghana is at a crossroads. He stated that success depends on how leaders touch lives and leave a legacy. He called for collaboration among stakeholders, including development partners like UNDP.

The ELP provided Ministers with a safe space to discuss real-world scenarios and global trends. It focused on leadership principles rooted in empathy and collaborative governance.

The programme consisted of four modules: Leading in a New World of Accelerated Change, Leading Systems in a VUCA World, Leading Self and Others, and Leading to Deliver Results. These modules challenged leaders to rethink their governance approaches.

Sessions were facilitated by renowned leaders, former heads of state, policy experts, and public administration thought leaders. Each session included dialogue, case studies, and strategic foresight. Participants aligned their leadership styles with Ghana’s national priorities.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan highlighted the need for focused leadership in education during his opening remarks. He stressed investing not just in technology but also in people.

Special sessions included a meeting between women political leaders in Ghana and UNDP’s Regional Director for Africa, Ahunna Eziakonwa. This meeting celebrated Ghana's progress in empowering women politically while discussing future improvements.

Ghana faces socio-economic challenges like youth unemployment and climate vulnerability but benefits from democratic continuity. This positions it as a model of governance amid regional instability.

Ahunna Eziakonwa expressed hope that the programme would provide fresh perspectives for sustainable development. She reaffirmed UNDP's commitment to supporting this journey.

She urged participants to seize the opportunity to reimagine leadership for Ghana's future together.

UNDP will continue collaborating with the Government of Ghana to ensure that the programme informs strategic governance priorities for long-term transformation.

This initiative is part of the new Regional Leadership Programme for Africa. It marks a significant step toward transforming institutions and promoting values-driven governance.

As Ghana enters this new era of leadership, the ELP has reinforced commitments to accountable governance. UNDP and the Government will work together to sustain momentum toward inclusive development for all.