The STAR-Ghana Foundation has successfully organized the 2025 Ghana Civil Society Forum under the theme: “Reimagining Development Financing and Civic Action – Challenges, Opportunities, and the Way Forward.” The two-day event took place at the GNAT Hall in Accra from Wednesday, June 25 to Thursday, June 26, 2025.
In his opening address, Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko Amidu, Executive Director of STAR-Ghana Foundation, highlighted the importance of mobilizing civil society across Ghana—from grassroots community-based organizations to think tanks and international NGOs—to reflect on the changing dynamics of development financing.
He emphasized that in an era marked by democratic backsliding in parts of Africa and beyond, the role of civil society is more critical than ever. “It is imperative for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to be adequately financed so they can effectively support governments in addressing the root causes of inequality, poverty, and underdevelopment,” he stated.
Alhaji Tanko further noted that CSOs, despite facing numerous challenges, remain courageous actors and can serve as equal and constructive partners to governments and other development stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairperson of the National Development Planning Commission, outlined practical strategies for ensuring the sustainability of CSOs amid global reductions in donor aid. These strategies include:
- Strengthening local philanthropy through engagement with high-net-worth individuals, diaspora communities, and faith-based organizations
- Establishing social enterprises and hybrid financing models to generate income while achieving social impact
- Leveraging technology-driven fundraising tools such as crowdfunding, blockchain philanthropy, and mobile money platforms
“These home-grown strategies can help CSOs achieve self-reliance and enhance their role in national development,” Dr. Thompson emphasized.
The event was also graced by Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, who served as the guest speaker. She announced the government’s intention to engage stakeholders in developing a clear roadmap for the passage of the Non-Profit Organisations (NPO) Bill into law. The bill seeks to regulate the operations of NGOs and CSOs in Ghana, ensuring transparency and accountability within the sector.
The forum brought together a broad spectrum of participants, including development practitioners, policymakers, academics, and civil society actors, all committed to exploring innovative approaches to financing and sustaining civic action in Ghana
