Sunyani, Oct. 30, GNA - Reverend Dr. Kwesi Biney, member of the Brong Ahafo Regional Economic Task Force, has appealed to civil society groups to contribute towards harnessing the potentials of the region for economic development. Speaking on the role of civil society in building a culture of responsibility at a two-day conference in Sunyani, he said civil society groups have a unique opportunity to harness and promote economic potentials of society.

The workshop, which was under the theme: "Harnessing the economic potentials of the Brong Ahafo region," was attended by civil society organizations, private sector, tertiary educational institutions, political and traditional leaders.

It aimed at identifying the developmental needs and priorities of the region for the local economic development as well as the needs of the business sector with attention on social development, environmental management and sustainability. Rev. Dr. Biney noted that civil society could play such a role properly when there was a socio-political culture that created a sense of responsibility in the public. He said a very sound public sector and private sector depended on the existence of a very dynamic civil society and strong citizen's involvement in affairs.

Rev. Dr. Biney said the existence of a robust public and private sector must come with the capacity to enforce the rule of law, clearly defined rules of engagement for civil society and a ensure sound policy that provided good environment businesses.