Ghana’s development shows contrast between strong foundations and current structural decay — Alhaji Osman

Alhaji Khuzaima Mohammed Osman, Executive Director of the African Security and Development Forum (ASDEF), says Ghana’s development trajectory since independence reflects a sharp contrast between its strong founding systems and what he describes as current structural decay.

He noted on Tuesday that at independence in 1957, Ghana inherited solid administrative systems and a clear blueprint for socioeconomic progress, peace, and national stability. However, he said the country now grapples with systemic corruption, weak governance, deteriorating institutions, and the breakdown of basic infrastructure.

Alhaji Osman, who also holds the traditional title Tafidan Hausa for Africa and Europe, pointed to flooding and poor drainage systems as the clearest signs of what he described as a governance deficit.

He said it is troubling that short periods of rainfall, sometimes lasting only four to six hours, are enough to cripple Accra and other major towns, turning roads into dangerous waterways, destroying property, and causing loss of life.

According to him, earlier post-independence development efforts, including planned urban layouts and projects such as the Korle Lagoon Ecological Restoration initiative, were designed to manage urban growth effectively. He, however, argued that many of these systems have deteriorated due to poor maintenance and weak enforcement of regulations.

He said drains are now clogged with plastic waste, silted, or built over, warning that the failure to maintain them has turned seasonal rains into recurring national disasters. He also linked the situation to poor sanitation, citing uncollected waste in parts of major cities as a contributor to blocked waterways and public health risks.

Alhaji Osman, who is also an Eminent Member and Chairman of the Finance and Fundraising Committee of the GARPC under the National Peace Council of Ghana, acknowledged what he described as some positive efforts in waste management and commended companies such as Zoomlion Ghana Limited and the Jospong Group of Companies. He suggested that their operations could be further strengthened to meet global standards seen in cities such as London and New York.

He further argued that corruption remains a major driver of institutional weakness, saying public resources meant for drainage systems, waste management, and housing are often misused. He warned that political office is increasingly seen by young people as a path to wealth rather than public service.

He added that this perception has weakened public institutions and reduced their ability to deliver essential services, stressing that reforms under the current government’s reset agenda must address the issue decisively.

Describing what he called a contradiction in a religiously inclined society, Alhaji Osman expressed concern that widespread corruption and poor sanitation exist alongside strong Christian and Muslim identities. He said national practices often contradict core religious teachings on honesty, cleanliness, and accountability.

He cited biblical and Quranic passages which, according to him, condemn bribery, corruption, and environmental neglect, arguing that both faiths emphasize integrity and cleanliness.

He urged Ghana to bridge the gap between religious values and civic responsibility, adding that stronger institutions, stricter enforcement of laws on waterways and construction, and zero tolerance for corruption are essential for national progress.

He concluded that Ghana can only achieve sustainable development by restoring disciplined systems similar to those at independence, adding, “Only by reviving the disciplined foundational structures of its independence era can Ghana build a clean, resilient, and prosperous nation.”

   Comments0