United Nations in Ghana

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Ghana:

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Publication

01 April 2025

UN Ghana Annual Results Report 2024

To address multifaceted development challenges, our efforts focused on areas such as transforming food systems, accelerating digital transformation, advancing educational reforms, strengthening peace and security frameworks, tackling climate change, and supporting urbanization and humanitarian preparedness.Our collective work not only aimed to address pressing issues but also to establish a solid foundation for long-term sustainable development, with a continued commitment to the principle of Leaving No One Behind.Additionally, strengthening partnerships and securing financing for the 2030 Agenda remained a focal point, as did efforts to improve UN coherence, effectiveness, and efficiency through the approach of "UN Working More and Better Together."

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09 June 2025

UNESCO Supports “Echoes of the Landfill” Exhibition at Ghana’s Museum of Science and Technology in commemoration of World Environment Day 2025

The exhibition is a collaborative effort by the Museum of Science and Technology (MST) and ArtfullyYours, Bee Arthur Creative Productions for World Environment Day 2025. The exhibition convened six Ghanaian eco-conscious artists—Obed Addo, Beatrice Bee Arthur, Essilfie Banton, Andrea Ghia, and Salim—who excavate the hidden politics within discarded plastic: narratives of colonial residues, neoliberal excess, and quiet acts of African resilience as well as spotlight the urgent issue of waste and its impact on both the environment and human well-being, using art, culture, and science as powerful tools for awareness and change.“Echoes of the Landfill” transformed the museum space into a compelling narrative on environmental degradation, consumer culture, and the hidden legacy of landfills. Through installations made from repurposed and recycled materials, alongside interactive exhibits and multimedia storytelling, visitors were invited to reflect on the journey of waste—from homes and markets to dumping grounds—and its broader implications on ecosystems, health, and heritage. One of the artists, Bee Arthur shared saying “the artists in this exhibition do not recycle—they resurrect trash. Through sculpture, installation, painting, poetry, and photography, they force plastic to confess: as a relic of extractivism, a marker of climate injustice, and paradoxically, a medium for African futurity” “This is NOT an exhibition about waste. It is an intervention in time. A demand to rewrite the lexicon of value: that a bag is not "single-use" but a generational artifact; that those who scavenge are archivists of the Anthropocene” Bee Arthur further echoes. The UNESCO Representative and Chairperson for the occasion, Mr. Edmond Moukala stated that; “Echoes of the Landfill” is a powerful exhibition at the intersection of art, science, and sustainability, compelling audiences to confront the often-overlooked consequences of waste and consumer habits. Using artworks made from discarded materials, gives voice to the silent stories of landfills—reminding us that waste does not vanish but accumulates, leaving lasting imprints on the environment, our health, and future generations. In Ghana, where landfills grow rapidly with plastics, e-waste, and pollutants, this exhibition highlights the urgent need for national reflection on environmental choices and their impacts on urban life and ecosystems. Through its evocative displays, “Echoes of the Landfill” challenges us to rethink the afterlife of our consumption and the legacy we are creating”. “Echoes of the Landfill” opens on the back of an exhibition “Nature Without Humans” by Nii Boi which UNESCO supported at this same museum in 2021 on World Environment Day - a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world inviting viewers to imagine ecosystems, landscapes, and environments untouched—or recovering—from human impact.The exhibition highlighted the critical role that environmental education, youth engagement, and indigenous knowledge systems play in fostering responsible environmental stewardship. UNESCO emphasized that the integration of culture and creativity into environmental discourse can inspire more inclusive and lasting solutions to global challenges like pollution and climate change.The event brought together students, artists, environmental scientists, policy-makers such as Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie the sector Minister, agencies such as the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board and the Creative Arts Agency as well as members of the public, creating a vibrant space for dialogue and learning. In line with the 2025 World Environment Day theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution” the exhibition encouraged visitors to consider how waste impacts land use, biodiversity, and community life, and to imagine alternatives rooted in sustainability, innovation, and collective action.UNESCO commends the Museum of Science and Technology and its partners for curating such a powerful experience that bridges science and culture to provoke critical thought and promote environmental consciousness. By supporting initiatives like “Echoes of the Landfill,” UNESCO continues to advocate for environmental responsibility that is grounded in cultural awareness, education, and participatory engagement—empowering communities to act for a healthier, more sustainable future.

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11 November 2025

Intelligently de-risking private sector finance for development objectives

Although micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of both rural and urban economies in Ghana, their owners face persistent barriers to financial inclusion. Despite representing the vast majority of the country’s businesses, employment, and GDP, many MSMEs — particularly those in rural areas and those owned by women — operate informally, have limited access to financial and literacy skills training, and often resort to expensive instant digital loans or informal borrowing since traditional financial services remain out of reach. As its use continues to expand, artificial intelligence (AI) offers new possibilities to help close the gap between MSMEs and formal financial services, enabling small business owners to expand their operations, enhance productivity, and thrive. In Ghana, the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is leading the Leveraging Digital Ecosystems for Increased MSMEs’ Productivity project — a Joint SDG Fund-financed programme implemented together with UNDP and UNCTAD. Among other objectives, UNCDF is exploring how AI can be leveraged to catalyze and de-risk investment in innovative, AI-driven solutions to bridge longstanding gaps in access, affordability, and trust. Download the full article (PDF)
Includes interviews, field insights from Kumasi and Takoradi, and examples of AI applications transforming Ghana’s financial landscape. Credits:Technical writing: Jennifer Spencer Co-author: Yaa Owusu-Amoah

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06 November 2025

UNODC and Cyber Security Authority are strengthening Ghana’s cyber future - from classrooms to global conventions

This is thanks to a dynamic partnership between the Cyber Security Authority of Ghana (CSA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). From empowering students to shaping international policy, UNODC is helping Ghana build a safer, more resilient digital future, locally and globally.National Cyber Security Challenge 2025On 24 October 2025, the spotlight was on Ghana’s youth as students from three senior high schools competed in the National Cybersecurity Challenge – Champions Edition at the University of Legon. Organized by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) with support from UNODC’s Global Programme on Cybercrime, the event celebrated innovation, teamwork, and digital ethics. After a series of intense rounds, St. Peter’s SHS emerged as the 2025 National Cybersecurity Champion. Addressing the students, UNODC’s Officer-in-Charge in Ghana, Mr. Christoph Capelle, emphasized that they are the ones who will design safer apps, protect critical data, and build inclusive online spaces.” He also highlighted that “Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue—it is about human rights, fighting disinformation, countering hate speech, and defending democracy.”The Challenge was part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, observed in October, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to nurturing digital talent and promoting responsible online behavior. Winners were named Cyber Ambassadors, tasked with leading peer-led campaigns in their schools and communities.New Global Milestone: UN Convention against Cybercrime Just days later, Ghana demonstrated its global leadership by signing the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime in Hanoi, Vietnam on 25–26 October 2025. The Convention is the first international treaty to combat cybercrime through cross-border cooperation, harmonized laws, and shared digital evidence.Representing Ghana, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, affirmed: “Cybercrime is a global challenge that requires global solutions. By joining this Convention, Ghana reinforces its commitment to protecting its citizens, businesses, and institutions.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres hailed the treaty as a “landmark achievement for the digital era,” while UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly praised Ghana’s commitment to a safer digital future. UNODC’s support to Ghana spans technical training, legislative reform, and multi-stakeholder coordination. Through its Global Programme on Cybercrime, UNODC has supported Ghana to strengthen digital forensics capacities, raise awareness, and align national frameworks with international standards.“Signing is just the beginning,” said Ms. Waly. “UNODC will continue to help countries implement the Convention, enhance digital resilience, and ensure no nation is left behind.”Together, these milestones reflect powerful evidence: Ghana is investing in its youth, strengthening its institutions, and shaping the global cybersecurity agenda, with UNODC as a trusted partner every step of the way.

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06 November 2025

Ghana Champions Gender-Responsive Peacekeeping as UNSCR1325 Marks 25 Years

With support from the Elsie Initiative Fund, Ghana celebrates progress in inclusive peace operations through commemorative events and renewed commitment to the Women, Peace and Security agenda.Almost 15 per cent of Ghanaian troops deployed to United Nations Peacekeeping operations are women. With support from the Elsie Initiative Fund (EIF), a global partnership funded by Canada and other governments to increase the meaningful participation of uniformed women in UN peace operations, Ghana is making significant progress in advancing gender-responsive peacekeeping, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.The resolution calls on all actors to increase women’s participation and to integrate gender perspectives across all peace and security efforts.This year, the world marks the 25th anniversary of the UNSCR1325 renewing the call to promote and advance the WPS agenda. In Ghana, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), together with partners, including the United Nations in Ghana and the Canada, are marking the anniversary with a series of commemorative events including a dialogue, a walk and an exhibition under the theme “1325@25: Embracing the Future of Women Peace and Security Agenda for a Gender responsive Ghana Armed Forces.” At the official opening ceremony held in Accra on Wednesday, 5 November, speakers highlighted the importance of gender-responsive peacekeeping, the need to sustain progress on the #WPS agenda, and to create inclusive spaces where all can contribute to lasting peace. Present were the Chief of Defence Staff of the (GAF) Lieutenant General William Agyapong, the Canadian High Commission in Ghana, H.E. Myriam Monstrat and the UN Resident Coordinator, H.E. Zia Choudhury. The Guest of Honour was the Deputy Chief of Staff, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, who called on all leave with renewed conviction that a GAF empowering its women is not just embracing the future but securing it. The opening was followed by a panel discussion on the role of women in peacekeeping operations, featuring women peacekeepers who led at various stages of their career.

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24 October 2025

Ghana Celebrates 80 Years of the United Nations with Flag-Raising Ceremony and Renewed Commitment to Global Solidarity

Ghana marked the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations with a solemn flag-raising ceremony at the Forecourt of the State House, reaffirming its enduring commitment to multilateralism, peace, and inclusive development. The event brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, youth representatives, and development partners in a powerful display of unity and shared purpose.A Legacy of Cooperation and Courage Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa reflected on the theme, “UN@80: Ghana and the UN – Shared Responsibility for a Better Tomorrow.” He described the UN as “a beacon of hope and international cooperation,” and praised its role in shaping Ghana’s development journey through partnerships with agencies such as UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, FAO, and UNESCO.Hon. Ablakwa also highlighted Ghana’s recent endorsement of the Declaration for the Protection of Humanitarian Personnel, reaffirming the country’s commitment to safeguarding those who risk their lives to serve others. He echoed President John Dramani Mahama’s call for reform at the UN General Assembly, urging for Africa’s permanent representation on the Security Council. “If we are truly to share responsibility for a better tomorrow,” he said, “then our international institutions must reflect today’s global realities.”The UN: A Living Promise UN Resident Coordinator H.E. Zia Choudhury offered a stirring reflection on the UN’s founding and its continued relevance. “The United Nations was created by the people, for the people — for you, for me, for all of us,” he said. He outlined the UN’s global impact, from assisting over 139 million displaced people to vaccinating nearly half the world’s children and deploying more than 60,000 peacekeepers.Choudhury praised Ghana’s leadership on the global stage and commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ad-hoc Planning Committee for organizing the commemorative events. “Ghana stands tall among nations, speaking boldly and with conviction, even in times of global uncertainty,” he noted.He also invoked the aspirations of everyday Ghanaians, from market women in Nima to schoolchildren in Bolgatanga, as a reminder that sustainable development must be people-centered and inclusive. “Together,” he said, “we can meet the aspirations of every citizen and build a world where peace and dignity are not privileges, but rights.”Youth Leadership and the Spirit of Kofi Annan Mr. Ampah Kuuku Agyensaim, representing Ghana’s youth, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the legacy of the UN and the power of young leadership. “Today, as we raise the blue flag of the United Nations, we are celebrating 80 years of hope, of shared humanity, and of the belief that nations can work together for peace, justice, and dignity for all,” he said.Standing in the footsteps of Kofi Annan, Ghana’s own former UN Secretary-General, Agyensaim invoked Annan’s words: “You are never too young to lead, and never too old to learn.” He praised young people across Ghana for redefining leadership through innovation, advocacy, and unity.“Even as we celebrate, we must reflect,” he added. “The UN was not created to be perfect, it was created to be perseverant. To remind humanity that even in uncertainty, dialogue must never cease, and hope must never die.”Flag-raisingBoth the UN and Ghana flags were hoisted to symbolize the strength of their partnership and a shared commitment to the principles of the UN Charter. An exhibition highlighting the longstanding partnership between Ghana and the United Nations was mounted as part of the commemorative activities.The gathering paused for one minute of silence to pay tribute to the memory of the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings. As Ghana joins the world in commemorating this milestone, the message was clear: the future must be built together, with courage, compassion, and collective resolve.

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Press Release

09 October 2025

Independent International Scientific Panel on AI - Open Call

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres has announced the Open Call for Nominations for the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI https://www.un.org/independent-international-scientific-panel-ai/en, which will be open until 31 Oct 2025. This will be the world’s first truly inclusive scientific panel on AI, a significant step in moving from principles to practice, translating the aspirations of the Global Digital Compact into operational mechanisms.

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Press Release

19 September 2025

African Countries Urged to Seize Economic Opportunities Through New Climate Plans

African governments are being encouraged to present their new national climate plans as opportunities to supercharge economies and boost living standards across the continent, as deadlines approach for all countries in the Paris Agreement to submit these plans."Strong new national climate plans are blueprints for stronger economies, more jobs and rising living standards, across all African nations. Strong plans open the door to new industries, large-scale investment, more affordable clean energy accessible to all, and more resilient infrastructure, as climate disasters hit African nations harder each year," said UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell.“Africa is not just on the frontlines of climate impacts; it is also at the forefront of solutions. Right across the continent, we are already seeing massive potential and innovations which cut planet-heating pollution and build more climate-resilient economies. Strong new national climate plans are the key to converting that potential into real-economy outcomes at scale, including the millions of new jobs they create," Stiell added.The United Nations is calling on all countries to submit their new plans, formally called Nationally Determined Contributions, or NDCs, as soon as possible ahead of key milestones, including the UN Secretary General’s September Climate Summit and November COP30 in Brazil. September will be an important milestone, but submissions will continue in the run-up to COP30, with each plan helping to limit global heating to 1.5 degrees Celsius and protect all peoples, while also unlocking jobs, growth, and economic benefits at home.While particular responsibility rests with the largest economies, whose choices determine the global trajectory of emissions, it is essential that every nation puts forward its most ambitious plan, both to strengthen humanity's collective response and to drive each nation's own prosperity and security. Read more.

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Press Release

18 September 2025

INFoCAT: Piloting Youth-Designed Clean Energy- Powered Agritech for Smallholder Farmers in West Africa.

The INFoCAT piloting tour, is to show the creativity and problem-solving capabilities of young green innovators who have designed context-appropriate clean technologies, to enhance agricultural productivity, expand access to clean energy agritech solutions and reduce drudgery in smallholder farmers communities in Ghana, Senegal and Cote D’Ivoire.After this piloting stage and a rigorous appraisal of these innovations, one innovator from Ghana and two innovators from Senegal and Cote D’Ivoire respectively, will receive a sum of $37,00 to scale up their innovations/businesses. During the programme:The innovators present, test-run and demonstrate how their agri-technologies function.Smallholder women farmers are trained on the effective operation of the technologies.Key stakeholders (Ministry of food and Agriculture, District Assembly members, renewable and agricultural experts and smallholder farmers and agro-processors), discuss the fine-tuning, scalability, sustainability, and adoption pathways of these agritech.Ghana:Innovations are piloted in Namesi -Yilo Krobo District of Ghana’s Eastern Region, Aveyime in the North Tongu District of Volta Region, Gomoa East District in the Central Region. Innovations include: -Integrated Cassava Processing Unit: A cassava peeling and washing machine, a cassava grater, an energy efficient multi-fuel gari(cassava flakes)roaster and a biogas system. This biogas system produces and stores biogas-to power a biogas generator that supplies electricity for use in facility (where this unit is kept). - A Solar-battery-powered grains dryer - A Rice winnower (solar powered)- A Smart solar powered irrigation system-A Groundnut plucking machine -A Mini Combine harvester to harvest and de-husk maize.Senegal:In July, some clean agritech were also piloted in Senegal: Bambèye (Diourbel region), Toubacouta (Fatick region), Taïba Niassène (Kaolack region) and Gapakh (Kaolack region). These innovations include:-A Groundnut pod plucker and dehuller, -A mobile solar powered cool house for preservation of harvested food crops-A cashew nut crusher A smart solar-powered irrigation system A dynamo- energy generator .The INFoCAT innovators in Cote D’Ivoire, will be subsequently piloting their clean agritech innovations in the coming months.Background-INFoCATUNU-INRA’s INFOCAT (Innovate for Clean Agricultural Technologies) is an initiative funded by International Development Research Center (IDRC) under the Clean Energy for Development: A Call for Action initiative (CEDCA). INFoCAT is being implemented in Ghana, Senegal, and Cote D’Ivoire. Project Partners are Enda Energie (Senegal) and UNU-INRA operating Unit (Cote D’Ivoire).Prior to this piloting stage, Innovators (10 in Ghana, 5 in Senegal and 5 in Cote D’Ivoire), were shortlisted as part of the INFoCAT Innovation Challenge. They each won an initial grant of $7,400 and were taken through a series of meetings with smallholders and industry experts, to fine-tune their initial agritech innovations to make them more efficient for farmers and agro-processors. A key element of these innovations is the renewable energy component. Industry experts: agricultural and renewable energy experts, have coached these young innovators throughout the process of fine tuning these machinery, to make them more environmentally friendly.

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Press Release

10 September 2025

New UNU-INRA report uncovers the economic, social and justice costs of Africa’s green transition.

The report Counting the Cost: From Extraction to Green Transition – Tackling the Dealbreakers of Finance, Justice and Development, shows Africa’s unique paradox: it is the world’s lowest emitter of greenhouse gases yet among the most vulnerable to climate impacts. At the same time, the continent holds vast renewable and mineral wealth critical for the global green economy. With 75% of global cobalt, abundant solar and wind resources, and rapidly emerging hydrogen potential, Africa stands at a critical inflection point.The study warns that multiple global crises are undermining sustainable development and increasing vulnerability across Africa, while debt burdens and weak adaptive capacity compound the pressures of climate change. Although Africa contributes little to global emissions, it is showing leadership in green development. Yet fossil-fuel dependent countries face the risk of stranded assets, with far-reaching consequences for jobs, incomes, and stability.The report underscores that energy insecurity remains acute. Africa requires $25–50 billion annually to achieve universal energy access by 2030, and a further $200 billion each year to finance its climate commitments (NDCs). However, current climate finance mechanisms continue to favour loans over grants, exposing the continent to new layers of debt.Meanwhile, the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism threatens to erode Africa’s export earnings, raising fundamental equity concerns. Speaking at the Second African Climate Summit in Addis Ababa, Prof. Fatima Denton, UNU-INRA Director and lead author of the report, noted: “Africa is asked to act as a carbon sink for the world, but there is no compensation or support mechanism to match this demand.”Despite these risks, the report highlights Africa’s opportunities. The continent’s vast renewable and mineral wealth offers a unique chance to lead in the green economy, but only if countries retain ownership and ensure domestic value addition. Without this, Africa risks repeating extractive patterns of the past.What is needed, the report argues, is green industrialization: powered by clean energy, anchored in critical mineral value chains, and designed to create jobs, build resilient infrastructure, and foster prosperity while respecting planetary boundaries. Regional integration — through intra-African trade, policy alignment, and joint infrastructure — will be essential to strengthen bargaining power and maximize the continent’s resource potential.“Justice must be at the heart of the green transition,” said Prof. Denton. “Africa cannot remain a cheap carbon sink or a raw materials supplier for the world. The transition must deliver sovereignty, resilience, and prosperity for African people.”Counting the costs of green transition compared to inaction will enable proactive planning and early action to avoid economic disruptions and ensure a just, resilient and inclusive transition. “Until Africa gives itself the space to change the narrative radically, countries that are high polluters will continue to dictate,” Denton advised.

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Press Release

18 August 2025

Ministry of Finance Hosts Strategic Engagement with UN to Strengthen Ghana–UN Development Cooperation

Ghana’s pursuit of resilient and inclusive development is closely aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While multiple UN entities offer technical assistance, policy guidance, and financing support to the Government of Ghana, the absence of structured coordination risks fragmentation and reduced impact. This strategic engagement responds to that challenge, reinforcing the Ministry’s recognition of the UN’s pivotal role in supporting national development.The meeting brought together the Ministry’s representatives, heads of UN agencies and its technical experts who shared strategic priorities, key interventions, and collaborative footprints across the country. Discussions focused on emerging coordination challenges, streamlining multi-stakeholder collaboration, and aligning UN’s collective support with Ghana’s SDG implementation framework.This strategic engagement, ably facilitated by the Ministry and the Resident Coordinator’s Office, is a critical step toward ensuring that development cooperation delivers maximum impact. By aligning UN support directly with Ghana’s Medium-Term National Development Policy Framework, the partnership avoids duplication and channels resources where they are most needed.Participants emphasized the importance of data-driven programming, harmonized planning cycles, predictable financing and accountability mechanisms to ensure impactful and sustainable development outcomes. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to institutionalizing regular strategic engagements to improve the relevance and effectiveness of development cooperation. “We recognise that the UN System’s support is catalytic, and our partnership signifies the collective commitment we share towards achieving Ghana’s inclusive national development agenda and the SDGs,” said Hon. Thomas Nyarko Apem, Deputy Minister of Finance. UN Resident Coordinator Zia Choudhury expressed appreciation for the opportunity and pledged continued collaboration: “This strategic engagement reflects our unwavering commitment to building stronger, more coordinated partnerships with the Government of Ghana. By aligning our efforts and deepening collaboration, we can accelerate Ghana’s development agenda and ensure that no one is left behind.”The meeting concluded with a strong reaffirmation of confidence in Ghana’s resilience and transformative potential. Stakeholders pledged to work collectively toward a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future, advancing good governance, economic resilience, and social inclusion.

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