Gifty Nyarko, the Head of Physical Planning at the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly in Ghana, has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to urban governance and climate-resilient development. The Business Executive Group, an international organization dedicated to promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, bestowed upon her the prestigious African Ambassador for Inclusive Urban Governance and Climate-Resilient Development award. This distinguished honor, presented at a ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, acknowledges Nyarko’s innovative approach to planning, which prioritizes community engagement, climate consciousness, and sustainable practices. The award not only celebrates her individual achievements but also highlights the growing importance of incorporating these critical elements into urban development strategies across Africa. The event, attended by dignitaries from across the continent, served as a platform to recognize individuals making significant strides in sustainable development and to emphasize the critical role of such efforts in shaping the future of African cities.
The selection of Nyarko for this award underscores the Business Executive Group’s commitment to recognizing individuals who embody the principles of sustainable and inclusive development. She was chosen from a highly competitive pool of candidates across Africa, signifying the profound impact of her work. Nyarko’s approach to planning is characterized by a unique blend of local knowledge, community engagement, and climate-conscious strategies. She understands the importance of involving local communities in the planning process, ensuring that development initiatives are tailored to their specific needs and priorities. Furthermore, her focus on climate resilience ensures that development plans are designed to withstand and adapt to the challenges of a changing climate, promoting long-term sustainability and enhancing the well-being of communities.
Nyarko’s reputation as both an “international” and “grassroots” planner speaks to her ability to bridge the gap between global best practices and local needs. Public surveys highlight her commitment to transparency, accountability, and community engagement, while consistently adhering to international standards in her professional work. This dual focus ensures that her planning initiatives not only meet global benchmarks but also resonate with the communities they serve, fostering a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for sustainable development. Her dedication to incorporating climate resilience into her work further solidifies her commitment to creating thriving and sustainable urban environments for present and future generations.
Nyarko’s work in the Sunyani West Municipality exemplifies her commitment to inclusive and climate-resilient development. She led the Spatial Planning Committee in developing climate-resilient spatial plans that prioritize grassroots participation, ensuring that local communities have a voice in shaping their future. Furthermore, her self-initiated programs, such as “Widows in Sanitation,” “Women in Greenery,” and “Youth in Climate Action,” demonstrate her proactive approach to engaging diverse segments of the population in creating more inclusive and sustainable urban environments. These initiatives not only empower marginalized groups but also harness the collective knowledge and resources of the community to address pressing environmental challenges.
Beyond her work within the Sunyani West Municipality, Nyarko is also a strong advocate for leveraging economic diplomacy to drive sustainable development across Africa. In her keynote address on “The Imperative of Economic Diplomacy in African Development in the 21st Century,” she urged African leaders to utilize diplomacy not only for political engagement but also as a strategic tool for attracting sustainable investment and building inclusive, climate-smart cities. Her call for people-centered cities, where climate justice and social inclusion are intertwined, reflects a holistic vision for urban development that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and social equity.
Nyarko’s recognition by the Business Executive Group serves as an inspiration for planners and policymakers across Africa and beyond. Her work exemplifies the transformative potential of incorporating community engagement, climate resilience, and inclusive practices into urban development strategies. By prioritizing these key elements, Nyarko is not only shaping a more sustainable future for the communities she serves but also contributing to a broader movement towards creating more equitable and resilient cities across the globe. Her commitment to collaboration and her vision for people-centered urban development offer a compelling model for building thriving and sustainable urban environments for generations to come. Her acknowledgment of various supporting institutions further highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainable development goals.
