New Delhi: Ghana’s Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry, Michael Okyere Baafi, on Friday called on India to invest in his country, underscoring India’s critical role in Ghana’s development.
Baafi said his country is ready to work with Indian businesses in sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, technology and infrastructure development. Speaking at the ASSOCHAM Commonwealth Champions Conference in New Delhi, he said the Commonwealth is a unique and diverse community that together represents nearly a third of the world’s population.
Highlighting trade barriers, Baafi said he is looking to reduce barriers that hinder the free flow of tools and services within the Commonwealth, facilitating market assets for Ghana.
The Ghanaian Minister further said that he recognizes the importance of capacity building and technology transfer to enhance the competitiveness of our industries.
“We are looking for greater partnerships in these areas, particularly in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing and information technology,” he added.
Going further, Baafi asked trading partner countries to support Africa in building infrastructure.
“Investment in transport, energy and digital infrastructure is vital to unlocking the full potential of the Commonwealth dream,” he said.
The Minister also expressed the need for partnership in the areas of education and skill development. He stated that Ghana looks forward to forging a deep partnership in education and related sectors through expanded scholarships to achieve vocational training programs and initiatives that will empower the youth of Ghana.
Ghana is a major trading partner of India in the African region. Bilateral trade between India and Ghana to reach $2.87 billion in 2022-2023. India is a leading investor in Ghana and emerged as the third largest investor.
These investments cross various sectors, which include pharmaceuticals, construction, manufacturing, commercial services, agriculture, tourism and more, according to an official statement.