As Ghana approaches its pivotal 2024 elections, the nation is increasingly focused on ensuring inclusive and accountable governance. In line with this commitment, STAR-Ghana Foundation has launched the Inclusive Elections & Accountable Governance Project. This initiative focuses on working with downstream partners to collaborate and implement interventions by creating spaces for disadvantaged, vulnerable and marginalized groups to have a voice in the upcoming elections through engaging political parties and the election management body. In addition, the project aims to ensure accessibility in the electoral processes, and to influence political party’s policies and programming in their manifestoes.
An orientation session, designed to establish a foundation for this important work, equipped participants with the knowledge and tools necessary for making a meaningful impact. Partners engaged in discussions on critical topics, including contracts and compliance, gender and social inclusion, and mutual accountability—key factors for the project’s success.
To maximize impact, partners were encouraged to leverage collaborations within the Inclusive Elections and Accountable Governance project. Eunice R. Agbenyadzi, Head of Programmes, emphasized the need to address exclusion and marginalization systematically. “There is legitimacy in advocating for the rights and opportunities of communities and individuals experiencing exclusion; building their capacity to do so is a critical priority for the Foundation,” she stated.
The Head of Programmes also highlighted the importance of safeguarding when working with vulnerable groups and communities, asserting that safeguarding should be a top priority for all project partners.
Mary Sabbah, Head of Finance and Operations, provided an overview of financial management, outlining the Foundation’s policies and regulations governing project expenditures. Throughout the day, participants worked to develop a robust framework for performance, ensuring that all actions remain transparent and aligned with the overarching goal of inclusive governance.
With a shared vision and collaborative effort, STAR-Ghana Foundation and its partners are laying the groundwork for a fair and transparent electoral process, fostering democratic progress in Ghana.
This project is funded by the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), reinforcing its global commitment to supporting inclusive and democratic governance. Together, STAR-Ghana Foundation and its partners are striving for elections that are not only free and fair but also fully inclusive of all voices.
