The VNR process, which is voluntary and country-led, provides a platform for governments to assess national development strategies.
The Government of Ghana on launched its 3rd Voluntary National Review (VNR) report on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Led by the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), the report reflects the country's progress, challenges, and priorities in advancing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The VNR process, which is voluntary and country-led, provides a platform for governments to assess national development strategies, engage a wide range of stakeholders, and present their findings at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in New York. Ghana’s latest report, the third since 2019, emphasizes science-based and inclusive solutions to accelerate transformation.
Speaking at the launch, the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, underscored the importance of shared responsibility and partnership across sectors: “The SDGs are not a job of government alone. And so I call on the private sector to go beyond just profits and embed sustainability in investments that you make in your practices and innovations,” he said.
Caption: The President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama addressing attendees.
The report draws on data from 105 indicators, a notable increase from previous reviews, and highlights Ghana’s commitment to participatory, evidence-based policy development. The Country Representative and Head of Office of UNESCO Ghana, acting as the Resident Coordinator, Mr. Edmound Moukala, commended Ghana’s efforts and the strength of the process: “This third VNR is not just a report; it is a testimony to national resilience, inclusive progress, and strategic foresight in an increasingly complex global context,” he noted.
Caption: The Country Representative and Head of Office of UNESCO Ghana, Mr. Edmound Moukala, commending Ghana’s efforts and the strength of the process:
Ghana’s VNR aligns with global SDG priorities and the African Union's Agenda 2063, setting the stage for targeted investments and collective action. The government has also recently launched the 24-hour economy initiative, identified as a strategic move to boost inclusive growth and job creation.
The VNR will be presented at the 2025 UN High-Level Political Forum, where Ghana will join other countries in sharing progress and learning as part of the global effort to achieve the SDGs by 2030.