Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Victor Emmanuel Smith, has called on American businesses and investors to take advantage of Ghana’s renewed pro-business environment and expanding investment opportunities.
Speaking at a business meeting held at McPherson Square in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Smith reaffirmed the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama’s new administration to building a vibrant, inclusive, and investor-friendly economy.
“Ghana is open and ready for business,” Ambassador Smith declared. “We are not asking our friends to observe from afar. We are inviting you to be part of Ghana’s unfolding story of transformation.”
The meeting brought together U.S. business executives, investors, environmental experts, and professionals from key sectors, including energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and digital technology.
Ambassador Smith outlined key achievements under the administration’s economic recovery program, including the elimination of nuisance taxes, stabilization of the exchange rate, and a marked reduction in inflation.
He noted that S&P Global Ratings had recently upgraded Ghana’s country risk outlook from “junk” to B- (stable) a move he said reflected renewed international confidence in Ghana’s economic management.
“We have restored macroeconomic stability and are sustaining growth through sound, people-centered policies,” he said. “Our focus is to ensure that this growth is felt in the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.”
Highlighting President Mahama’s flagship 24-Hour Economy Initiative, Ambassador Smith described it as a bold, job-creating policy aimed at boosting productivity, expanding access to employment, and modernizing agriculture and industry.
He explained that the initiative was already being implemented, with the Tema and Takoradi ports now operating 24 hours daily to improve trade efficiency. Ongoing legal reforms to the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) Act and the Labour Act, he added, are creating a more flexible and investor-friendly business environment.
The ambassador also emphasized Ghana’s commitment to investing in youth and digital innovation. He cited the One Million Coders Program as a landmark government initiative preparing young Ghanaians for global digital jobs and entrepreneurship.
He further highlighted the creation of the Ghana Gold Board, which aims to formalize the gold trade and promote transparency, responsible resource management, and community reinvestment.
He urged both American investors and Ghanaian diaspora professionals to support Ghana’s renewed growth agenda.
“Ghana offers not just a market but a gateway to West Africa,” he said. “With our stability, strategic location, and reform-driven leadership, the time to engage is now. I stand ready to guide partners into Ghana’s growing economy and ensure a seamless, mutually beneficial entry
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
