The Director-General of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, has called for a transition from traditional preparedness measures to resilient, shock-responsive systems, as Ghana faces an increasing number of social, economic, and environmental shocks.
Dr. Amoah made the call on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, while chairing the official launch of Ghana’s National Shock-Responsive Social Protection Strategy (NSRSPS).
The event, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP), was held under the theme: “From Preparedness to Resilience: Strengthening Shock-Responsive Social Protection Systems in Ghana” and brought together government officials, development partners, civil society actors, academics, and private sector representatives.
In her remarks, Dr. Amoah stressed that shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate-related disasters, and global economic disruptions are no longer isolated events but an integral part of the country’s development context.
“Shocks are no longer isolated events imagined at a distance, but rather a part of the development context within which we must plan and act,” she said, highlighting that vulnerable populations—including the poor, women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities, and informal workers—are often the hardest hit and least able to recover without support.
Dr. Amoah explained that the NSRSPS provides a framework for coordinated, efficient, and effective response to shocks, supported by Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and an Implementation Plan.
She urged stakeholders to actively participate in operationalising the strategy, noting that their engagement is critical to building national resilience.
Following her address, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, described the strategy as a forward-looking framework that guides Ghana’s anticipation, preparation, rapid response, and recovery from shocks.
She added that the NSRSPS aligns with national development priorities and global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals on ending poverty and reducing inequalities.
The launch is part of ongoing national efforts to strengthen Ghana’s social protection system and enhance resilience in the face of rising risks and vulnerabilities.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com
