Ghana's Cabinet has approved the National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Action Plan 2026-2036. President John Dramani Mahama announced this significant decision on Thursday, June 25, 2026. This plan will now go to Parliament for further action.
The approval marks a critical step in the government's ongoing efforts to ensure greater transparency and accountability. President Mahama also stated that the Cabinet directed the Attorney-General to draft a new State Assets Protection Bill. This bill will establish clear rules for how state assets, such as land, buildings, and factories, can be sold or transferred. It aims to prevent any future government from disposing of public properties without proper guidelines.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader economic and political strategy to strengthen democratic institutions and attract investment. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service consistently shows that public confidence in governance improves with perceived reductions in corruption. Past anti-corruption efforts, like the 2015 National Anti-Corruption Action Plan, have contributed to modest gains in transparency indices, but ongoing vigilance remains crucial. A robust framework for asset protection can safeguard public resources, which are essential for national development projects outlined in various government budgets.
President Mahama made these announcements at the Ghana Civil Society Forum (GCSF) 2026, held at the University of Ghana. He emphasized that accountability and the fight against corruption are vital for democratic consolidation. He stated, "Civil society has helped shape public discourse, informed policy choices, strengthened accountability mechanisms, and amplified the voices of communities that might otherwise have gone unheard."
The approval of this action plan signals a renewed focus on good governance, a key factor for international partners and investors. The proposed State Assets Protection Bill, once drafted and passed, will provide a legal shield to prevent the arbitrary sale of valuable state holdings. Market participants and rating agencies will closely watch the implementation of these measures. These actions could potentially improve Ghana's corruption perception index and positively influence economic stability and foreign direct investment flow over the next decade.
Dr. Esther Ofei-Aboagye, a Development Consultant, highlighted the importance of inclusion and participation for sustained democracy. Alhaji Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu, Executive Director of STAR-Ghana Foundation, noted that collaboration between government, civil society, and citizens accelerates democratic dividends. These views underscore the collaborative nature of effective governance reforms.
The long-term nature of the 2026-2036 plan suggests a sustained commitment to ethical practices. This plan aligns with previous efforts, including the 2015 National Anti-Corruption Action Plan launched during President Mahama’s prior term. The government views civil society as a strategic partner in nation-building, welcoming scrutiny and dialogue. Such partnerships are essential for ensuring that governance remains responsive to the needs of the people. This move aims to build trust in public institutions and foster active citizenship.