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Maiden Ghana Integrity awards 2019 launched

By Yaw Ansah/ Desmond Nyarkoh, GNA

Accra, Aug 14,
GNA – In order to name and praise individuals and organisations that have
initiated steps to reduce corruption, the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) has
launched the maiden Ghana Integrity Awards.

The awards are
in five categories namely: the Policy and Administrative Reforms, Transparency
and Social Accountability, Efficient Public Service Delivery, Effective
Enforcement and Integrity Personality of the Year.

It is open to
public institutions, and the call for the nominations starts from Wednesday,
August 14, to October 31. The public could submit names of their nominee via
www.ghanaintegrityawards.org or by hand-delivered to the office of GII.

Madam Linda
Ofori Kwafo, the Executive Director of GII speaking at the launch, stated that
the effect of corruption on Ghana’s development was huge and that the country
loses three billion dollars, equivalent to GH¢13.5 billion every year through
corruption.

The award, an
annual scheme, would be used as an incentive to influence positive behaviour,
provide an emotional reward to individuals and organizations doing the
“right things” with integrity.

It also seeks
to highlight positive actions/initiatives of public institutions and
individuals against the corruption fight and to erect good role models for the
guidance of the rest of society and to serve as a sharp contrast to behaviors
considered detrimental to the country’s progress.

Madam Kwafo
said given the effects of corruption, the successive government had attempted
to ameliorate through initiatives including the moral crusades, confiscation of
properties, public sector financial management reform and strengthening
national anti-corruption institutions.

She stated that
integrity in society could have a significant impact on the development and
progress of society.

Madam Kwafo
said it could significantly contribute to inclusive growth and sustainable
development, by assuring fair and efficient resource allocation, stimulating
competition and investment, and fostering innovation.

She stated that
the perception of low integrity among public and political officials has over
the years, contributed largely to a growing cynicism.

“Although the
2018 Transparency International Corruption index showed marginal improvement
for the country, corruption scandals frequently inundate our airwaves, an
indication that there still remains the uphill task in the anti-corruption
crusade,” she said.

Madam Tove
Degnbol, the Ambassador of Denmark to Ghana, said some people had the capacity
of not only staying clear of corruption but also contributing to the
establishment of procedures and practices, which strengthen the robustness of
institutions against corruption.

“It takes a lot
of courage and determination to go against the flow and have the eyes fixed on
what is best for the country and not for oneself and the immediate family,” she
said.

The awards
would be held in Accra on December 9.

GNA

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