The Government of Ghana is advocating for the creation of a national legal framework to guide and scale philanthropic efforts, emphasizing the growing role of private giving in national development.
Speaking at the 2025 Ghana Philanthropy Conference, organized by the STAR-Ghana Foundation, Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, stressed that coordinated philanthropy aligned with national priorities could mobilize substantial domestic resources.
She highlighted the transformative impact of businessman and philanthropist Alhaji Seidu Agongo, whose contributions span health, education, and social welfare.
His initiatives include equipping the Child Emergency Unit at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, funding scholarships for needy students, supporting widows during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing relief to Akosombo Dam spillage victims, and contributing to national efforts like the Mahama Cares Fund.
“Alhaji Seidu Agongo recently equipped the Child Emergency Block at Korle Bu and pays school fees for hundreds of students. Ghanaians have been immensely helpful, and we can mobilize even more if philanthropy is properly structured,” Nana Oye said.
Beyond immediate support, Alhaji Agongo established Fanaka University, promoting entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation with a focus on African-led solutions. The university integrates technology into its curriculum to prepare students for evolving job markets.
Despite such efforts, Nana Oye expressed concern that philanthropy in Ghana remains fragmented, with priorities often driven by individual organizations rather than national development goals. She warned that this leads to suboptimal resource use.
“It is time for Ghana to build a fit-for-purpose ecosystem that supports and scales philanthropic contributions nationwide,” she said. “We need a legal framework for resource mobilization and philanthropy. The government is ready to initiate the process, set up a team, and draft the necessary legislation.”
She pledged to personally support the drafting of the bill in collaboration with the Attorney-General and key stakeholders, ensuring that resources from local and international philanthropists are fully harnessed.
The 2025 Ghana Philanthropy Conference continues discussions on policy and regulatory measures required to scale philanthropy, culminating in a communiqué expected to serve as a blueprint for national action.
Source: Myxyzonline.com
