On May 20, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama inaugurated the eighth National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), comprising 37 members and chaired by Dr. Nii Moi Thompson. This newly constituted Commission replaces the previous 49-member body and is tasked with formulating a long-term national development plan that transcends political cycles and guides Ghana’s progress for generations.
Established under Articles 86 and 87 of the 1992 Constitution, and governed by the National Development Planning Commission Act, 1994 (Act 479) and the National Development Planning (System) Act, 1994 (Act 480), the NDPC is mandated to advise the President on development planning policy and strategy.
Its responsibilities include preparing national development plans, monitoring and evaluating government programs, and providing informed advice to the President and Parliament through rigorous research and policy analysis.
In his address, President Mahama emphasized the need for a stable and predictable development framework that meets the expectations of Ghanaians. He highlighted the importance of broad consultation and active engagement with citizens across all sectors of society to ensure the development plan reflects a broad national consensus and is subject to regular review in response to evolving domestic and global challenges.
The President also announced that his administration has begun preparations for a new Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies, which he is constitutionally required to present to Parliament within two years of assuming office.
This program will outline the government’s policy priorities and serve as the foundation for the Medium-Term National Development Policy Framework, guiding the operations of Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies over the next four years.
President Mahama urged the NDPC to consolidate various existing long-term development frameworks, including the Ghana Beyond Aid Charter, the Ghana at 100 Long-Term Development Framework, and the Vision 2057 Perspective Framework, into a coherent, inclusive, and forward-looking national development plan. He stressed the importance of collaboration and consultation with Parliament and the people’s representatives to ensure the final plan reflects the collective aspirations of the Ghanaian people.
Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude to the President for entrusting the Commission with this significant responsibility. On behalf of all the Commissioners, he pledged their commitment to fulfill their duties and obligations to the best of their ability, aiming to deliver a development plan that charts a bold and transformative path for the nation.
