Alex Apau Dadey
The Executive Chairman of the KGL Group of Companies, Alex Apau Dadey, has urged the government to view the private sector as a strategic partner in national development rather than a competitor.
Speaking at the 2025 Alumni Lecture of the University of Ghana, Legon, Mr. Dadey stressed that the time had come for the country to “move beyond seeing the private sector as a rival, and instead recognise it as a vital ally in national development.”
Mr. Dadey argued that sustainable growth lies in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) anchored on responsible corporate citizenship, where business success contributes directly to social and economic progress.
“You see, in every thriving economy, there comes a point where the government can no longer do it alone. The private sector must not only be involved. It must lead, but it cannot do so in isolation,” he said.
He further asserted that the country’s economic independence would not come from foreign aid but from ownership of resources, industries, and ideas driven by Ghanaians for Ghanaians.
“It is the private sector that creates wealth, not governments,” he emphasised.
Delivering his lecture on the theme, “Public-Private Partnership – A Case Study of Responsible Corporate Citizenship,” Mr. Dadey called for a national shift in mindset and policy to empower the private sector as a co-driver of progress.
He urged policymakers and business leaders to embrace collaboration rooted in trust, shared value, and national interest.
Beyond economics, Mr. Dadey underscored the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in promoting ethical and sustainable business practices.
He pointed to the KGL Foundation’s contributions in youth empowerment, education, health, arts, culture, and sports as tangible examples of responsible corporate citizenship.
Mr. Dadey appealed for a united front across all sectors (public, private, and diaspora) to redefine the nation’s development model.
“The government cannot do it alone. Businesses cannot do it alone. Academia cannot do it alone. Communities cannot do it alone. However, together, when we bring our ideas, our resources, our knowledge, and our will, we can ignite transformation that will echo for generations. The time for convenience is past. This is the hour for conviction and partnership,” he declared.
A Daily Guide Report