Accra: Mr Tong Defa, the Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, has called on Ghanaians to remain united and pursue their own path to modernisation and national development. He stressed that Ghana should avoid copying the models of other countries and instead develop a long-term, homegrown national development plan reflecting its unique circumstances, resources, and cultural strengths.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Tong made these remarks while addressing selected journalists participating in a 12-week training programme on Reshaping Reportage about Africa-China Relations, focusing on the relationship between Ghana and China. The programme, the first of its kind, is organised by the Africa-China Centre for Policy and Advisory (ACCPA).
Mr Tong highlighted that Ghana possesses more natural resources than China did at the beginning of its development journey. He suggested that adding value to these resources could significantly boost the country's foreign exchange earnings. He urged Ghanaians to be self-independent and self-reliant, mobilising the entire country to achieve their goals, particularly in areas like food security.
The Ambassador emphasized the importance of each country choosing its own development model, suggesting that Ghana and other African nations could benefit from drawing on existing cultural systems, such as the role of traditional leaders, to strengthen governance and development. He noted that many African countries have adopted governance models from developed nations, which may not always be the best fit.
Mr Tong acknowledged Ghana's strengths, including a large youthful population, a peaceful atmosphere, and the government's 24-hour economy initiative. These factors, he noted, could drive growth if supported by national sacrifice and collective effort. He also encouraged Chinese investors to take advantage of Ghana's conducive environment, describing the country as an ideal investment destination.
Education was underscored as a crucial factor for development. The Ambassador urged parents to prioritize their children's schooling over early income-earning activities and called on the government to enforce the constitutional provision of free, compulsory basic education. He commended the school feeding programme in Ghana, noting its potential to motivate pupils to remain in school and focus on their studies.
