The National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) in Accra hosted a farewell courtesy call on Friday, June 5, 2026, for Osama Makkawi Khogali, the outgoing UNICEF Representative to Ghana. The meeting marked the end of Mr. Khogali’s three-year tenure and served as a platform for the NDPC to acknowledge his leadership and the robust collaboration between the two institutions.
Appreciation for Partnership and Leadership
Dr. Audrey Smock Amoah, Director-General of the NDPC, lauded UNICEF as a crucial development partner for Ghana, particularly in advocating for the welfare of children and vulnerable populations. She emphasized the deep and lasting relationship, stating, “When we are counting our partners, we will count you first before we count the rest. You have been more than a friend.”
Dr. Amoah commended Mr. Khogali’s dedication, noting that his contributions have significantly bolstered Ghana’s development efforts and are expected to yield long-term benefits. She expressed sincere gratitude for UNICEF’s consistent support for national development planning and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Reflections on Collaboration and Human Connection
In his remarks, Mr. Khogali reflected on the relationship between UNICEF and the NDPC, describing it as having evolved beyond a formal institutional partnership. He characterized the bond as “a human relationship built on transparency, warmth and friendship.”
He highlighted key collaborative initiatives, including Ghana’s successful hosting of the African Evaluation Conference and joint efforts to enhance monitoring and evaluation systems. These projects, he noted, have been instrumental in promoting evidence-based planning and policymaking within the country.
Ghana’s Commitment to Child Welfare
Mr. Khogali praised Ghana’s steadfast commitment to child welfare. He underscored the critical importance of investing in the nation’s youth, given that children constitute nearly half of Ghana’s population. “NDPC has always been a friend of the child. That is a smart choice to make in a democracy,” he stated.
He further acknowledged the NDPC’s vital role in coordinating national development planning, ensuring that the needs of children and other vulnerable groups remain a central focus in policy discussions and development interventions.
Looking Ahead
Despite his new role overseeing UNICEF operations across 12 Caribbean countries, Mr. Khogali assured the NDPC of his continued strong ties to Ghana. “I will not leave you. I will come back, because I strongly believe there is a lot to learn from Ghana,” he affirmed.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing mutual appreciation for Mr. Khogali’s service and offering best wishes for his new international assignment. The exchange underscored the enduring significance of international partnerships in advancing national development agendas, particularly those focused on the well-being of children.
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