Ishmael Yamson Appointed National Economic Dialogue Committee Chair

President John Mahama has announced the formation of a seven-member committee to spearhead the National Economic Dialogue (NED), appointing Dr. Ishmael Yamson as its chair.

This initiative aims to tackle Ghana’s pressing economic challenges, propose necessary reforms, and guide fiscal consolidation efforts.

The committee has been tasked with developing a comprehensive agenda and recommendations within a four-week timeframe.

This move fulfills President Mahama’s commitment to convening the NED as part of his 120-day Social Contract with the Ghanaian people.

In addition to Dr. Yamson, the committee includes members such as Dr. K.Y. Amoako, Professor John Gatsi, Mohammed Samara, Nelly Mireku, Anthony Sarpong, and Ernest De-Graft Egyir.

The NED is envisioned as a platform for dialogue and consultation on Ghana’s critical development issues. It will facilitate discussions on policy trade-offs and strive to build consensus around the reforms necessary for transforming Ghana into a high-growth, inclusive, and resilient economy.

A statement from the Office of the Presidency outlined the objectives of the National Economic Dialogue: to communicate the true state of Ghana’s economy to stakeholders and citizens, develop a homegrown fiscal consolidation programme to guide national budgeting, and highlight key structural reforms and policy priorities essential for resetting the economy.

The NED Planning Committee will focus on several key tasks over the next month, including:

1. Agenda Setting: Crafting a comprehensive agenda that aligns with the objectives of the NED.

2. Speaker and Panellist Coordination: Identifying and inviting experts in economics, energy, and agriculture to participate as speakers and panelists.

3. Logistics Management: Managing venue selection, transportation, and other logistical needs.

4. Session Facilitation: Organizing and facilitating panel discussions, workshops, and breakout sessions while identifying moderators and rapporteurs.

5. Documentation and Reporting: Recording proceedings and preparing a detailed report that includes policy recommendations.