BIRDD
The Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development
The Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development
Established in 2014, the Busia Institute for Rural and Democratic Development (BIRDD) is a Ghanaian governance and development think tank dedicated to advancing values-based leadership, constitutional democracy, and sustainable rural transformation. Rooted in the legacy of Professor Kofi Abrefa Busia—renowned scholar, thinker, and former Prime Minister of Ghana (1969–1972)—BIRDD champions centre-right principles such as civic virtue, responsible citizenship, and inclusive governance.
Flagship initiatives—including the Founders’ Day Lecture Series, the ideological education programme – The Conservative Campaign, and the BUSIA Award—exemplify BIRDD’s commitment to shaping national discourse and nurturing values-based leadership. The Manual also highlights BIRDD’s comprehensive research agenda, commitment to a hybrid funding model, public engagement strategies, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation framework to ensure sustained impact and accountability.
With strategic foresight, intellectual rigour, and grounded community engagement, BIRDD is positioned as a leading national and continental institution advancing democratic development and inclusive rural progress.
BIRDD envisions becoming a leading centre-right institution of excellence and innovation in rural and democratic development, advancing inclusive governance, self-reliant and empowered communities, responsible environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation through values-based leadership.
BIRDD exists to promote rural and democratic development through research, policy advocacy, civic education, leadership training, and strategic partnerships that foster self-reliant and empowered communities, preserve cultural heritage, and promote responsible environmental stewardship—guided by values-based leadership and a commitment to inclusive, accountable governance.
Our core values are encapsulated in ‘CIVES’, a Latin word meaning ‘citizens’. This reflects our commitment to nurturing responsible and empowered citizens who drive sustainable development and advance democratic progress.
Honouring Ghana’s cultural identity and moral traditions as the foundation of resilient communities and national pride.
Promoting participatory democracy, decentralisation, and responsible citizenship to strengthen democratic institutions and social cohesion.
Upholding ethical leadership grounded in integrity, accountability, and service for national development.
Ensuring sustainable management of natural resources to protect livelihoods and preserve our ecological legacy for future generations.
Championing individual and community initiatives through responsible enterprise, innovation, and economic empowerment with emphasis on rural areas.
‘Our aim… is to create a democratic welfare society in which all may live a life of dignity in freedom…’
—K A Busia
Impacting Lives and Communities for Progress
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