President John Dramani Mahama has inaugurated a 37-member National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), emphasizing the need for a unified national development strategy that endures beyond election cycles and partisan interests. The newly constituted Commission, led by Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, succeeds the previous 49-member body.
Established under Articles 86 and 87 of the 1992 Constitution, and backed by Acts 479 and 480 of 1994, the NDPC is mandated to prepare long-term national development plans, monitor government performance, and advise the President and Parliament through evidence-based research and policy analysis.
President Mahama tasked the Commissioners with crafting a bold and transformative development blueprint to shape the nation’s future and overcome historical limitations. He stressed that national development must be inclusive, participatory, and grounded in a long-term vision.
He reiterated the constitutional obligation to present a Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies within two years of assuming office—a task historically developed in partnership with the NDPC. The next programme, he said, would align with the collective aspirations of Ghanaians and serve as the foundation for a new Medium-Term National Development Policy Framework.
Referencing Ghana’s continued dependence on primary commodities, Mahama invoked Kwame Nkrumah’s legacy and called for a visionary strategy to diversify the economy and eliminate structural constraints. He acknowledged the existence of multiple long-term frameworks—including the 40-Year National Development Plan, Ghana Beyond Aid Charter, Ghana at 100 Framework, and Vision 2057—and directed the Commission to integrate these into one cohesive national roadmap.
He emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and collaboration with Parliament to ensure broad national consensus and adaptability to future challenges. Commending the expertise and dedication of the Commission, the President expressed confidence in their ability to deliver.
Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, returning as NDPC Chairman, thanked the President for the opportunity and pledged the Commission’s full commitment to fulfilling its mandate.
