The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) of Ghana has formalized a collaborative partnership with KPMG, a globally renowned accounting and professional services firm, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic alliance signifies a concerted effort to bridge the gap between the public and private sectors in Ghana, with the overarching goal of accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The partnership aims to leverage KPMG’s extensive experience and expertise to enhance the NDPC’s capabilities in planning, implementing, and monitoring SDG-related initiatives. By combining the strengths of both entities, the collaboration seeks to create a synergistic approach to national development, fostering a more efficient and impactful pursuit of the SDGs in Ghana. The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s development journey, emphasizing the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving national goals.
The collaboration between the NDPC and KPMG will encompass a broad range of activities crucial for national development. Key areas of focus include resource mobilization, where the partnership will explore innovative strategies to secure the necessary funding for SDG implementation. Local economic development will also be a priority, with joint efforts aimed at stimulating growth and creating opportunities within local communities. Capacity building is another critical component of the agreement, with KPMG providing training and development programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of NDPC staff. This comprehensive approach reflects the commitment of both partners to addressing the multifaceted challenges of sustainable development and empowering local institutions to effectively contribute to national progress.
Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman of the NDPC, expressed optimism about the transformative potential of the partnership. He highlighted the significance of bringing private sector expertise to bear on national development planning, emphasizing the need for evidence-based decision-making. The collaboration with KPMG will provide the NDPC with access to valuable insights and analytical capabilities, strengthening its ability to formulate effective policies and strategies for achieving the SDGs. Dr. Thompson specifically mentioned the provision of training for NDPC staff in analyzing financial reports of companies listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange. This training will equip staff with the necessary skills to evaluate the performance of both state-owned and private enterprises, enabling them to provide data-driven recommendations to the President on key economic sectors. This enhanced capacity for financial analysis will empower the NDPC to make more informed decisions and contribute to a more robust and data-driven approach to national development planning.
Mr. Kwame Sarpong Barnieh, Head of Advisory at KPMG, echoed Dr. Thompson’s enthusiasm for the partnership, reaffirming KPMG’s commitment to supporting sustainable development in Ghana. He noted that the MoU aligns perfectly with KPMG’s core values and its mission to contribute to national progress through its expertise and resources. Mr. Barnieh commended the NDPC for initiating the collaboration and expressed confidence that the partnership would significantly amplify KPMG’s role in Ghana’s development landscape. He highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration and emphasized the private sector’s responsibility to contribute to national development goals. The partnership with NDPC provides a valuable platform for KPMG to contribute its expertise and make a tangible impact on Ghana’s sustainable development journey.
The MoU between the NDPC and KPMG represents a significant step forward in leveraging private sector knowledge and expertise to advance Ghana’s development agenda. The collaboration is expected to yield several key benefits for the country. First, it will strengthen the NDPC’s capacity for evidence-based planning and decision-making, leading to more effective policies and strategies for achieving the SDGs. Second, the partnership will facilitate the mobilization of resources, both financial and technical, to support SDG implementation. Third, the collaboration will promote local economic development by stimulating growth and creating opportunities within local communities. Finally, the partnership will foster knowledge transfer and capacity building within the NDPC, equipping staff with the skills and expertise necessary to contribute effectively to national development.
In conclusion, the partnership between the NDPC and KPMG marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s pursuit of sustainable development. By combining the strengths of the public and private sectors, this collaboration aims to create a more synergistic and impactful approach to achieving the SDGs. The agreement underscores the importance of collaborative partnerships in tackling complex development challenges and leveraging diverse expertise to drive national progress. The collaboration is poised to significantly enhance the NDPC’s capacity for planning, implementation, and monitoring of SDG-related initiatives, ultimately contributing to a more prosperous and sustainable future for Ghana. The MoU serves as a testament to the commitment of both organizations to working together towards a shared vision of a thriving and equitable Ghana.
