The National Association of Licensed Paralegals and Legal Executives (NALPLE) has been officially unveiled in Ghana, an event stakeholders hailed as a milestone in advancing access to justice and strengthening the country’s legal framework.
The unveiling, held at the Ghana-India Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence in ICT (AITI-KACE) in Accra, also featured the induction of new members into the association.
Dr. Ebenezer Teye Dzabaku-Ocansey, Co-Founder and President of NALPLE, said the launch represented the fulfilment of a vision to institutionalise the role of paralegals and legal executives in the justice system. He likened their role to nurses in healthcare, describing paralegals as “a distinct but vital pillar of the legal structure alongside judges and lawyers.”
He emphasised that recognising paralegals as a professional group would promote excellence, integrity, and professionalism, while creating opportunities for wider participation in legal support services. “As the first induction ceremony of its kind in Ghana, I urge all of us to make NALPLE a model for Africa,” he added.
Mr. Isaac Asare, Secretary of NALPLE, traced the association’s journey to its legal registration on May 6, 2025, under the Professional Body Registration Act, 1973 (NCRD 143). He recalled that the initiative was born out of the 2024 Paralegal Conference, which resolved to establish a professional body for paralegals and legal executives. The process involved drafting a constitution, mobilising members nationwide, and securing registration.
He said NALPLE was committed to advocating for recognition, standardising practice through codes of ethics and certification, and building capacity via continuous professional development.
A total of 81 members were inducted during the ceremony, including nine fellows, 68 members, and four institutional members. Interim officers were also confirmed for a four-year term. They include Dr. Dzabaku-Ocansey (President), Mr. Asare (Secretary), Mr. Anthony Addy, Ms. Mina Mensah, Mrs. Cassandra Ampofowaa VonBackustein, Mr. Innocent Atsu Adamadu, and Mrs. Kezia Peace, with Mr. Kenneth Azumah as Legal Advisor.
NALPLE said it would collaborate with justice sector institutions, civil society organisations, and international partners to expand access to justice and reinforce Ghana’s legal framework.
The association was established with support from the Centre for National Interest and Research (CNIR), the Institution of Paralegals and Legal Executives, and the Africa Centre for Collaborative Dispute Resolution (AfCCoDR).
