On Monday, 3rd March 2025, Minister for Foreign Affairs Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP) welcomed UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Niloy Banerjee at the Ministry.

During the meeting, Mr. Banerjee expressed his delight in serving Ghana during its transition. He listed key sectors his organization supports: energy transition, gender imbalances, climate change, and digital transformation.

He noted many opportunities for South-South cooperation between Ghana and other Southern countries. He called for collaboration to harness these opportunities for sustainable development.

He explained that UNDP is working on the Atlantic Corridor Project to prevent and respond to violent extremism. The project has supported a review of the National Framework for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism (NAFPCVET).

He added that UNDP collaborates with the National Peace Council to prevent and mitigate local conflicts in Wa West and northern Ghana. He also works with the National Commission on Small Arms to curb illegal arms through Ghana’s borders. Additionally, UNDP launched the SALIENT Fund Project and the YAI Programme to empower youth and women with entrepreneurial skills.

The Minister praised UNDP’s activities and thanked their team for their role in Ghana. He stressed that Ghana must tap into UNDP’s diverse expertise to achieve its developmental goals and build a sustainable economy.

He explained that strategic policies, clear vision, and capital can steer the government toward economic diplomacy and industrialization under the 24-hour economy concept. He assured the delegation that the government will work closely with UNDP to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.