Ghana must move from ESG policy commitments to action – Local Government Minister

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has called for stronger institutional coordination, sustainable financing and accountability mechanisms to accelerate the adoption of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles across Ghana’s economy. He said integrating ESG considerations into national policies, institutional practices and private sector operations was essential to promoting responsible investment, protecting natural resources and creating sustainable economic opportunities. Addressing the Ghana National Climate and ESG Policy Summit 2026 at the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra on Tuesday, October 27, the Minister said Ghana must move beyond policy commitments to practical and measurable action. “The integration of Environmental, Social and Governance principles into national policies, institutional practices and private-sector operations is therefore not merely a matter of compliance or corporate responsibility. It is a strategic imperative,” he said. He explained that effective implementation would require stronger coordination among government institutions, increased mobilisation of sustainable finance and meaningful partnerships with the private sector, development partners, academia and civil society. The Minister also emphasised the importance of transparency, accountability, institutional capacity and reliable data in advancing sustainability practices. “Public and private institutions alike must be encouraged to adopt credible sustainability practices, strengthen environmental and social risk management, and report their progress against clearly defined standards and measurable indicators,” he said. He noted that the scale and complexity of climate change required a coordinated national response supported by sustained commitment, adequate financing and effective implementation. “Government, on its part, remains committed to advancing policies and partnerships that support climate resilience, environmental protection, sustainable investment and responsible governance,” he added. The Minister urged participants to ensure that the summit produced concrete policy recommendations and institutional commitments rather than ending with discussions alone. “This Summit must therefore serve as more than a forum for discussion. It must be a catalyst for concrete policy recommendations, institutional commitments and actionable strategies,” he said. He welcomed plans for the summit to conclude with a National Communiqué, noting that his ministry would work with local assemblies to advance recommendations relevant to local government. The summit brought together government officials, local government leaders, private sector representatives, development partners and civil society organisations to discuss strategies for strengthening climate resilience and promoting ESG principles in Ghana.