President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated Ghana’s strong dedication to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a renewed focus on five key areas: decent work and economic growth, access to quality basic education, sanitation and hygiene, energy efficiency, and building effective, accountable institutions.

Speaking at the official launch of Ghana’s Voluntary National Review (VNR) Report at the Presidency, President Mahama emphasised the integrated nature of the development agenda, noting that Ghana’s priorities are closely aligned with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the national Medium-Term Development Policy Framework, and global ambitions for bold, transformative action — dubbed the “Moon Shots.”

“Our commitment to the SDGs is not in isolation. These goals intersect with our national development priorities and continental aspirations,” President Mahama stated. “We must act with urgency and purpose if we are to deliver a dignified future for all Ghanaians.”

Also addressing the gathering, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Senior Advisor to the President on the SDGs, raised alarm over the growing environmental challenges facing the country, particularly the rising threat of plastic pollution.

While acknowledging a slight improvement in Ghana’s performance on the World Ocean Health Index — from a score of 63.25 to 65 out of 100 — Dr. Thompson warned that this progress remains fragile.

He called for intensified efforts in public education, waste reduction, and sustainable environmental practices to protect Ghana’s ecosystems.

“We’re seeing signs of progress, but it’s not enough,” Dr. Thompson said. “Plastic waste is choking our environment, and without aggressive action on sanitation and environmental awareness, we risk reversing the gains made so far.”