Ghana Roundup: SDG progress, anti-LGBTQ bill delay, child-rights anthem

UNICEF commends Ghana’s SDG accountability and investment progress

The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has praised Ghana for its strong commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, highlighting the country’s Budget execution and tracking system as a global model for transparency. Speaking at the launch of Ghana’s 2023 SDG Budget and Expenditure Report, UNICEF noted that Ghana is among a few countries implementing such an advanced accountability mechanism. The latest report shows SDG-related spending increased from GH₵83 billion in 2022 to GH₵180 billion in 2023, reflecting major investments in health, education, social protection, and human capital. Despite Ghana’s ranking of 120th globally on SDG attainment, UNICEF’s Chief of Social Policy and Inclusion, Paulina Sarvilahti, expressed optimism, saying Ghana’s data-driven approach provides a solid foundation for accelerated progress.

Opposition MPs decry delay in reintroducing anti-LGBTQ bill

Ghana’s main opposition, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has criticised what it calls an unnecessary delay in the reintroduction of the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Lead sponsor and NPP MP John Ntim Fordjour told Parliament on November 21 that it had been five weeks since the Speaker indicated the bill was undergoing final fine-tuning, yet it had not appeared on the order paper. He urged that any oversight be corrected immediately. Responding, Yusif Sulemana, an MP of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) cautioned against politicising the matter, noting former President Akufo-Addo did not sign the bill when it was first passed. Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga rejected claims of obstruction and assured the House that the government remained committed to its passage. The bill, which seeks to criminalise same-sex relationships and restrict LGBTQ activities, continues to draw significant criticism from rights groups.

Ghana to host its first-ever Entertainment Week in December

Ghana will host its maiden Entertainment Week this December, an initiative aimed at celebrating the country’s fast-growing creative economy beyond the regular festive-season parties. The event will bring together creatives, investors, fans, and industry stakeholders for a week-long showcase covering music, film, fashion, digital arts, and live experiences. In a televised show on November 22, Entertainment Week Ghana partner Joseph Adjei said years of tracking Ghana’s vibrant December events inspired the idea. He revealed that December activities often exceed 250 events, driven by a tourism boom that sees nearly 3 million visitors—many from the diaspora—arriving to invest, collaborate, or relocate based on their cultural and entertainment experiences.

World Bank applauds progress under Ghana Digital Acceleration Project

A World Bank delegation has commended Ghana’s progress under the Ghana Digital Acceleration Project (GDAP) during a technical visit focused on strengthening digital development and cybersecurity. Led by Regional Practice Director Michel Rogy, the team visited the Cyber Security Authority’s National CERT facility and held discussions on enhancing Ghana’s competitiveness in artificial intelligence, digital job creation, public-sector digitalisation, and cybersecurity resilience. 

UNICEF partners with Afrobeat artist Kuami Eugene to launch child-rights anthem

Award-winning Afrobeat artist Kuami Eugene has partnered with UNICEF Ghana to release a new child-rights anthem titled “Let Them Shine” in celebration of World Children’s Day. The song highlights every child’s right to education, healthcare, nutrition, safety, and protection from abuse, according to UNICEF. Its release coincides with the 36th anniversary of Ghana’s ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, reaffirming the country’s long-standing commitment to safeguarding children. UNICEF Representative Osama Makawi said the collaboration goes beyond music, serving as a strategic tool to elevate child-rights advocacy nationwide. Kuami Eugene expressed pride in using his platform to empower young people, noting that every child in Ghana deserves to be heard, valued, and protected.