Osafo Maafo shoots down Ghana’s 40yr Development Plan

Mr. Yaw Osafo Maafo, Senior Minister-designate, has revealed he strongly disagrees with the decision to have a 40-year Development Plan for the nation.

The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) designed the 40-year-plan which implementation begins in 2018.  The Plan would comprise 10 medium-term plans, each of four-year duration, spanning 10 general elections (2020-2056) and be reviewed every ten years by Parliament to keep it current and relevant.

But Mr. Osafo Maafo Friday told Parliament’s Appointments Committee when he appeared before Members that, “I do not believe in planning in excess of 10 years”.

He maintained that his view was made “clear” to the Commission when he was consulted.

He however indicated that he was consulted as well as the New Patriotic Party while in opposition in which he and now Vice President. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and others made inputs. The nominee however stated that he is yet to see the final plan which is pegged at 40 years.

Various groups including the Association of Ghana Industries have lauded the 40-year Development Plan. Former President Mahama who launched the Plan said it will significantly transform Ghana.

“This 40-year development plan will tackle Ghana’s development challenges and as a government we are fully committed to it,” he said.

The 40-year plan is the longest in the country’s history, but many feared the lack of continuity of development programmes by successive governments is likely to affect its smooth implementation.

Mr. Osafo Maafo maintained that the NPP government is “surely going to have a critical look at the programme, we won’t swallow it hook and eye”.

He reiterated that the government will do modifications when necessary as well as consult the framers to ensure that the plan works.

By Isaac Essel |editors.3news.com| Ghana