The 2024 manifesto of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) offers a strategic vision for Ghana’s foreign policy and international relations, designed to restore economic stability, enhance diplomatic ties, and strengthen the nation’s global standing. At its core, the NDC’s foreign policy goals are rooted in leveraging economic reforms to build stronger international partnerships, while promoting Ghana as a reliable and stable partner on the global stage.
One of the key pillars of the manifesto is the plan to stabilize Ghana’s economy. By addressing the country’s debt crisis arising from the NPP government’s ‘default’ in payments to investors while at the same time implementing fiscal reforms following the mismanagement of the Ghanaian economy by the Bawumia-Akufo Addo government, the NDC aims to create an environment that inspires confidence among international investors, foreign governments, and development partners. This is crucial for positioning Ghana as a viable partner in bilateral and multilateral engagements. Economic stability will likely attract more foreign direct investment (FDI), which is essential for the creation of new jobs, national growth and for increasing Ghana’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the NDC’s focus on bolstering trade relations aligns with its broader aim of promoting local industries. The manifesto outlines plans to renegotiate existing trade agreements, enabling Ghana to diversify its export markets and enhance its global trade leverage. By reducing dependence on traditional markets and fostering relations with emerging economies in Africa, Asia, and beyond, Ghana can broaden its international economic footprint. This strategy not only strengthens Ghana’s role in global commerce but also enhances its bargaining power in international trade negotiations.
The NDC also underscores the importance of enhancing Ghana’s diplomatic presence on the global stage, particularly within regional organizations like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The manifesto commits to deepening Ghana’s role in peacekeeping missions and conflict resolution efforts within West Africa. With regional security being a crucial concern, the NDC envisions Ghana playing a proactive role in fostering stability across the continent, which will strengthen its diplomatic relationships within Africa and with other global powers that have a vested interest in regional peace.
The manifesto highlights the importance of environmental diplomacy. The NDC plans to engage actively in global climate initiatives, positioning Ghana as a leader in sustainable development within Africa. This focus on environmental stewardship not only aligns with international climate goals but also enhances Ghana’s credibility in global environmental governance, fostering stronger relations with countries committed to combating climate change.
In addition to its focus on economic reforms and diplomatic strategy, the NDC’s 2024 manifesto places significant emphasis on engaging Ghana’s diaspora community and improving consular services. Recognizing the critical role that Ghanaians living abroad play in the nation’s development, the manifesto outlines several initiatives aimed at facilitating participation in both the economy and governance of Ghana by Ghanaians in the diaspora.
One of the key promises is to streamline and modernize passport acquisition processes, including the introduction of e-passports that comply with international standards. By decentralizing passport services and equipping service points across the country, the NDC plans to make it easier and faster for Ghanaians, both at home and abroad, to obtain or renew passports. This aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the efficiency of consular services and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for citizens.
A very important aspect of the NDC’s diaspora engagement strategy is the focus on ensuring that Ghanaians living abroad can actively participate in the country’s democratic process. The manifesto pledges to streamline dual citizenship procedures, allowing members of the diaspora to vote and contribute more fully to the nation’s political life. Beyond political engagement, the NDC also aims to create platforms that facilitate investment opportunities for the diaspora, enabling them to contribute their expertise and resources to local projects. This initiative is expected to bolster economic growth, increase employment and promote sustainable development through the transfer of knowledge, skills, and capital.
Furthermore, the NDC plans to negotiate e-visa agreements with other nations, which will simplify international travel and trade for Ghanaians. This move is aimed at enhancing global mobility for business and tourism, while also fostering stronger international trade relations.
These commitments reflect the NDC’s broader vision of integrating the diaspora more fully into national development, both as investors and as participants in the democratic process, ensuring contributions by Ghanaians abroad are recognized and valued in shaping Ghana’s future.
Overall, the NDC’s foreign policy framework as outlined in the 2024 manifesto is focused on improving Ghana’s global reputation through economic stability, trade diversification, and active diplomacy. By reinforcing international relations through these strategic moves, Ghana can expect to improve its standing in both regional and global affairs under the next NDC government of President John Mahama. The 2024 manifesto promises to deliver long-term benefits for the country’s economy, security, and international influence.
Author:
Prince Kassim Senaya Alubankudi
Policy Analyst at UPDI Africa
Website: www.UpdiAfrica.com
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