Intergrity in public, private sectors crucial to drive national development — Dr Ofosu-Dorte

A Senior Partner of AB & David Africa, Dr David Ofosu-Dorte, has called on every facet of Ghanaian society to uphold the value of integrity, both in the public and private sectors. 

He emphasised the urgent need for integrity in both public and private sectors of the country, stating that would drive the nation towards economic prosperity, good business conditions and better living.  

Dr Ofosu-Dorte, who was delivering a keynote address at a fundraising dinner conference of the Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI) in Accra last Saturday, stressed: “Leadership cannot transform without integrity,” and that integrity remained essential for national and continental development.

Fundraiser

The Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International serves as a global network for Christian professionals and entrepreneurs.

The fundraising, which was held on the theme: 'Integrity, a key element at the heart of a successful business', was to support the fellowship’s charity, Arganbright Partnership Fund.

Arganbright Partnership Fund mobilises resources from Full Gospel members to fund care for the needs of youth and students, market women, taxi/trotro drivers and mates, boys and girls in ghettos, as well as fisherfolk. 

Cost of unethical practices

The private legal practitioner and AB & David Africa senior partner pointed out that the trend of Ghanaian youth seeking greener pastures outside the country was connected to a lack of accountability in leadership and a broader culture of corruption.

Dr Ofosu-Dorte mentioned that Ghana's business history had been affected by a lack of integrity, which had caused the downfall of many public and private businesses.

“Many formerly successful public entities have collapsed due to a lack of integrity,” he explained.

He also cited the decline of the Volta River Authority, once praised as the second-best managed power plant globally, now diminished by unethical practices.

Dr Ofosu-Dorte then urged leaders to reflect on their roles in fostering a culture of integrity. He cautioned against a culture where appointments hinge more on political affiliation than on merit.

“When leaders prioritise personal gain over communal benefit, we cultivate an environment where dishonesty thrives,” he said.

He also highlighted the importance of institutional frameworks in both public and private sectors to prevent misconduct.

“It is the duty of every businessman to establish systems that protect their interests,” he stated.

His remarks resonated with many attendees, prompting discussions on implementing ethical practices within their own organisations.

Mission

The National President of the fellowship, Emmanuel Baba Mahama, for his part, affirmed that the organisation aimed to demonstrate the power of God through community service while imparting spiritual growth. 

“We believe in and demonstrate the power of God in our lives through miracles, healings and acts of kindness," he stated.

The mission entails winning people to Christ and helping to make their lives better.

Mr Mahama stressed the importance of unity among Christians regardless of their backgrounds.

“We aspire to reach all flesh and have a deep concern for every nation and every race," he stressed.