In a significant move to strengthen corporate accountability and protect human rights, Ghana has officially launched its first-ever National Action Plan (NAP) on Business and Human Rights.

The plan, unveiled by the Office of the Attorney General, the Ministry of Justice, and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), aims to address and prevent human rights violations linked to business activities across the country.

At the launch ceremony on July 11, 2025, Joseph Akanjolenur Whittal, Commissioner of CHRAJ, hailed the NAP as a transformative milestone that will guide national efforts to embed human rights principles in both the public and private sectors.

“The NAP is the result of extensive consultations with a broad spectrum of Ghanaians,” Whittal said. “Ghana is now among only four African nations to have developed such a framework. This is a landmark achievement for our country.”

Whittal highlighted the plan's potential to improve the lives of citizens by promoting responsible business conduct and safeguarding vulnerable communities. He stressed the need for collective action to ensure the NAP’s successful implementation.

“We need multi-sectoral collaboration from government, businesses, civil society, and the general public. The NAP provides clear short-, medium-, and long-term strategies, but it must be read, understood, and supported by all,” he added.

Calling for tangible government commitment, the Commissioner urged authorities to allocate adequate resources for the plan’s execution.

“We urge the state to move beyond symbolism. Budgetary support is essential to close the gaps identified in the plan,” he emphasized.

Representing the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Dr. Sylvia Adusu, Chief State Attorney, echoed strong support for the NAP, underscoring its relevance to every Ghanaian.

“This plan is not just about policy; it’s about people. It aims to ensure that businesses—whether small traders or multinational corporations—respect the rights of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable.”

She emphasized that the NAP seeks to prevent abuses while ensuring victims can access justice. Dr. Adusu reminded Ghanaians of the availability of legal remedies through the courts and institutions dedicated to human rights protection, including the Human Rights Court and the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

“Human rights protection is not solely the responsibility of state institutions. Every citizen must play a role. If you witness abuse, speak out,” she urged.

The launch of the NAP comes at a time of growing global scrutiny of corporate human rights practices. The plan aligns with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, positioning Ghana as a leader in Africa on rights-based economic governance.

The document outlines concrete responsibilities for both public and private actors, covering key areas such as fair employment practices, environmental protection, consumer rights, and anti-corruption measures.

The development of the NAP was supported by several international partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Government of Japan, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), Oxfam Ghana, ActionAid, UNICEF, Verité, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).



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