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Ghana is intensifying efforts to incorporate migration and diaspora remittances into its national development strategy as part of a broader plan to stimulate job creation and long-term economic growth.
With remittance inflows estimated at $7.8 billion in 2025—nearly seven per cent of GDP—officials say diaspora contributions are becoming increasingly vital to the economy. However, much of these funds are currently used for household consumption, with limited investment in productive sectors.
According to Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), a new toolkit has been developed in collaboration with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa to better integrate diaspora resources into national and local development plans.
Speaking through Richard Tweneboah Kodua, Director of Research and Innovation at the NDPC, she explained that the initiative aims to systematically incorporate migration trends and remittance flows into Ghana’s development frameworks, presenting an opportunity to drive sustainable growth and employment.
Dr Amoah highlighted that approximately 1.7 million Ghanaians living in over 50 countries contribute significantly through remittances, supporting areas such as education, healthcare, and local economic activities.
The initiative was discussed during a capacity-building workshop attended by representatives from key institutions, including the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment, Ghana Statistical Service, Bank of Ghana, and various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies. Participants were trained on integrating migration and diaspora contributions into development planning.
Amadou Diop, an Economic Affairs Officer at UNECA, noted that since 2024 the Commission has been working with six African countries, including Ghana, Comoros, and Tunisia, to identify best practices for leveraging remittances to reduce poverty and promote economic development. He emphasised that strong institutional commitment will be crucial to ensuring diaspora funds are effectively channelled into impactful development initiatives.
Source: citinews
