By Felix Cofie
A bold new chapter in Ghana’s governance journey was charted this week as the Government of Ghana, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), concluded a high-level Executive Leadership Programme (ELP) in Ada. Held under the theme “Re-imagining Leadership in a ‘Reset’ Ghana”, the event brought together senior officials, experts, and stakeholders to redefine public leadership in the wake of the country’s recent democratic transition and the formation of a new Cabinet.
The four-day programme served as a launchpad for renewed national vision, fostering strategic dialogue among Ministers, Deputy Ministers, senior advisors, and partners from the private sector and international organizations, including the African Development Bank. The goal: to build a collaborative, future-ready leadership capable of navigating the complexities of modern governance.
“Ghana stands at a crossroads, faced with diverse challenges. We must lead differently, think differently, and act differently, as the true measure of our success is the lives we touch and the legacy we leave behind,” said H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.
He further emphasized the need for a unified development agenda that transcends political lines. “Where we feel our development partners, especially UNDP, can come in, is bringing together various stakeholders—including the private sector and governments from across the aisle—to agree on one development agenda that we all buy into and agree to move forward no matter who is in power.”
The programme was structured around four key thematic modules: Leading in a New World of Accelerated Change, Leading Systems in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) World, Leading Self and Others, and Leading to Deliver Results. Each session was co-facilitated by African and global leaders, former heads of state, and public sector experts who challenged participants to reimagine not only what they govern, but how they govern.
H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, former President of Nigeria, in his keynote remarks, called for a renewed focus on education and innovation. “For Ghana and Africa to truly advance, we need focused, consistent leadership and a reimagined approach to our educational systems. We must not only invest in technology but also in the people who will create it. Education is the foundation for meaningful change.”
The programme also featured targeted engagements, such as a special session between women in political leadership and UNDP Africa Regional Director Ahunna Eziakonwa, which celebrated Ghana’s progress in gender inclusion while exploring new pathways for sustained empowerment.
As Ghana continues to grapple with pressing challenges—from youth unemployment and inequality to climate threats and economic shocks—the programme underscored the importance of resilient institutions and inclusive leadership. Ghana’s democratic stability and strong governance structures were highlighted as key assets in an increasingly volatile region.
“Our collective aspiration is that this collaborative programme will serve as a catalyst: equipping you with fresh perspectives, renewed energy, and actionable strategies to steer Ghana toward inclusive and sustainable development,” said Ahunna Eziakonwa, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Africa. “Let us seize this opportunity to reimagine leadership, not just for today, but for the Ghana we are building together.”
As part of the newly established Regional Leadership Programme for Africa, this inaugural edition for Ghana marks a significant milestone in the country’s governance journey. It sets the stage for deeper transformation across ministries, institutions, and public service delivery.
In closing, the Executive Leadership Programme reaffirmed a national commitment to bold, values-driven, and accountable leadership. Both the Government of Ghana and UNDP pledged continued collaboration to ensure the programme’s insights shape future governance reforms and contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s inclusive development agenda.
