CHAPTER 3 alia, incorporate as far as possible the major objectives of the AU and the APRM. ? [Providing] direct support for human development and the provision of basic services; ? Providing special programmes in support of the vulnerable and excluded; ? Ensuring good governance and increased capacity of the public sector; and ? [Seeking] the active involvement of the private sector as the main engine of growth and partner in nation building.” 11. Ghana's annual real GDP growth rates have exceeded 4% since 2000. The economy remains relatively weak, however. It is highly vulnerable to external shocks from the world economy and from sub-regional political instability due to factors originating in neighbouring countries. 12. Following on the relative successes in recent years in pursuing the objectives of macroeconomic stabilisation, the authorities have identified these priorities for their development strategy: ? ? ? Human resource development through education and improved health service delivery, and other related services; Private sector development, envisaging success in agriculture based on human development, and the improvement of infrastructure by the government in partnership with the private sector; and Good governance. 13. The remainder of this chapter appraises Ghana's position with respect to the APRM standards and codes. It discusses the progress and challenges in achieving five key general objectives of the APRM Questionnaire: ? ? ? ? ? Promoting macroeconomic policies that support sustainable development; Implementing transparent, predictable and credible government economic policies; Promoting sound public financial management; Fighting corruption and money laundering; and Accelerating regional cooperation and integration. 14. The discussion of each objective starts with a brief summary of Ghana's self50