The private sector must be seen as the engine of national wealth, not a rival to the government, the Executive Chairman of the KGL Group, Alex Apau Dadey, declared at the 2025 University of Ghana Alumni Lecture.
Speaking on “Public-Private Partnership – A Case Study of Responsible Corporate Citizenship,” at the University of Ghana, Legon in Accra, on Thursday, November 6, 2025, Mr. Dadey called for a fundamental shift in policy and perception to position businesses as strategic partners in nation-building.
“Governments do not create wealth – the private sector does,” he stated at the Great Hall. “The government may set the rules of the game, but it is the private sector that plays it, with innovation, capital, and resilience. The time has come for Ghana to move beyond seeing the private sector as a rival, and instead recognise it as a vital ally.”
Tracing Ghana’s economic history, Mr. Dadey cited the collapse of once-thriving enterprises such as Siaw Industries, GNTC, and Neoplan Ghana as reminders of the country’s failure to protect indigenous businesses. He contrasted these with successful global examples like Tata Motors and Shoprite, which flourished through deliberate state support.
He underscored that the solution lies in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) built on Responsible Corporate Citizenship, where business success translates into shared social value. He stressed that effective PPPs can bridge Ghana’s infrastructure gaps when founded on clear vision, fair risk-sharing, and good governance.
“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,” he emphasised.
Mr. Dadey also advocated for a strategic shift from Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Diaspora Direct Investment (DDI), urging global Ghanaians to invest their capital and expertise back home.
Beyond economics, he highlighted the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. He cited the KGL Foundation’s work in education, sports, and mental health—including awarding over 300 scholarships and sponsoring national football teams—as practical demonstrations of corporate citizenship.
In conclusion, Mr. Dadey called on all sectors to join hands. “The government cannot do it alone. Businesses cannot do it alone,” he said. “However, together… we can ignite a transformation that will echo for generations. The time for convenience is past. This is the hour for conviction and partnership.”
