Ousmane Diagana, the Vice President for Africa West and Central at the World Bank, is set to visit Ghana from January 6 to January 11, 2025. This significant visit comes at a pivotal time as Ghana prepares for the swearing-in ceremony of H.E. President-Elect John Dramani Mahama.
Diagana’s visit reflects the World Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting Ghana’s development objectives and enhancing collaboration between the two entities.
During his stay in Ghana, Diagana will participate in the inaugural ceremony marking the beginning of President Mahama’s new administration. This event signifies a critical moment in Ghana’s democratic journey and sets the stage for discussions on national priorities and development strategies. Following the swearing-in ceremony, Diagana is scheduled to meet with President Mahama to discuss the vision of his incoming government. This meeting will focus on identifying key areas where the World Bank Group can provide support to advance Ghana’s prosperity and sustainability goals.
In addition to engaging with government officials, Ousmane Diagana will also take the opportunity to visit significant historical and cultural sites in Accra. One of the key stops on his itinerary is the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum. This site honors the first President of Ghana and a pivotal figure in Africa’s independence movement. The renovation of the memorial park was made possible through the support of the World Bank, demonstrating the institution’s dedication to preserving Ghana’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Diagana’s visit is not limited to Accra. He will travel to Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti Region, to pay a courtesy call on His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the King of the Ashanti people. This visit underscores the importance of traditional leadership in Ghana and the role it plays in the nation’s development. During his time in Kumasi, Diagana will engage in discussions regarding the Kumasi Urban Mobility Accessibility Project (KUMAP), which is currently under preparation. This project aims to improve urban mobility and accessibility in Kumasi, addressing critical challenges related to transportation and infrastructure in the rapidly growing city.
While at the KUMAP site, Diagana will gain firsthand insight into the project’s objectives and anticipated impact on the local community. The World Bank is committed to enhancing urban resilience and promoting sustainable urban development, making KUMAP a vital component of its efforts in Ghana. Through such projects, the World Bank aims to improve the quality of life for Ghanaians and foster economic growth in urban areas.
The World Bank has had a longstanding presence in Ghana since 1957, providing financial and technical assistance to support the country’s development agenda. Over the years, the institution has worked collaboratively with the Ghanaian government and various stakeholders to address pressing developmental challenges and foster economic growth. Currently, the World Bank’s active portfolio in Ghana is valued at approximately US$4.84 billion, encompassing 25 active projects across various sectors.
The portfolio is strategically diversified, with investments distributed across key sectors critical to Ghana’s development. Notably, 15% of the investments are focused on finance and competitiveness, aimed at enhancing the country’s economic environment and fostering private sector growth. Health, Nutrition, and Population initiatives account for 12% of the portfolio, underscoring the World Bank’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and promoting the well-being of Ghanaians.
Another 12% of the investments are directed toward urban resilience and land, reflecting the importance of sustainable urban development in the face of rapid urbanization and climate change. Additionally, 9% of the portfolio is allocated to social protection and jobs, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing livelihoods and supporting vulnerable populations in Ghana.
Ousmane Diagana’s visit is a timely opportunity to strengthen partnerships between the World Bank and the Ghanaian government, particularly as the country embarks on a new chapter under President Mahama’s leadership. The discussions during this visit will likely focus on identifying key priorities for collaboration, aligning the World Bank’s resources with Ghana’s development goals, and exploring innovative solutions to address pressing challenges.
As the world grapples with complex issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and public health crises, the role of international organizations like the World Bank becomes increasingly vital. Diagana’s engagement with Ghanaian leaders and stakeholders will help pave the way for constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts aimed at building a prosperous and sustainable future for the country.
The anticipated outcomes of this visit could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s development trajectory, potentially leading to increased investment in critical sectors and enhanced support for initiatives that address the needs of the population. By fostering a strong partnership with the World Bank, Ghana can leverage international expertise and resources to navigate the challenges ahead and unlock new opportunities for growth.
In conclusion, Ousmane Diagana’s visit to Ghana marks an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the World Bank and the Ghanaian government. It presents an opportunity for meaningful discussions, strategic planning, and renewed commitments to achieving sustainable development goals. As the nation prepares to welcome President Mahama and his administration, the partnership with the World Bank will be essential in driving progress and ensuring that Ghana continues on a path of inclusive growth and development.
