President John Dramani Mahama and London Mayor Sadiq Khan have pledged to deepen ties between Ghana and the United Kingdom, with a strong focus on economic cooperation, diaspora engagement, urban development, and mutual learning in governance.
The high-level meeting, held in London, explored key areas of collaboration including Ghana’s 24-hour economy initiative, digital transformation, labour migration, and strategies for urban development.
Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy Inspired by London
President Mahama highlighted Ghana’s ambition to implement a 24-hour economy, drawing inspiration from London’s vibrant round-the-clock commercial model.
“There is much we can learn from London, a city which never sleeps, in the implementation of our 24-hour economy,” the President said.
“Accra is growing so rapidly that it’s been difficult to keep pace with the provision of social services, waste management, urban transport and flooding. These are challenges we’re confronting head-on.”
Resetting Ghana’s Economic Path
Touching on the state of Ghana’s economy, President Mahama acknowledged past turbulence but emphasized the government’s progress under what he called the “Reset Agenda.”
“We had quite a turbulent time with the economy a few years ago and had to default on our debt payments,” he admitted.
“We inherited a difficult situation, but gradually, we are reintroducing fiscal and monetary discipline, and the economy is turning around quite nicely.”
He added that the cedi has appreciated, inflation is falling, and investor confidence is returning, paving the way for increased foreign direct investment.
Opportunities in the Digital and Agritech Sectors
President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s robust digital innovation landscape.
“We have quite an active fintech community with many digital services and startups. Our focus on agribusiness is strong, especially around building full value chains for youth and farmers,” he noted.
Orderly Labour Migration Over Irregular Routes
On the issue of migration, the President emphasized Ghana’s commitment to safe and legal migration pathways.
“We are working with countries like Germany and some Middle Eastern nations to sign agreements that allow young people to work abroad on fixed-term contracts and return home,” he explained.
“That’s better than the fly-by-night recruiters who sometimes abandon them.”
Sadiq Khan Praises Ghanaian Community and Ties to Accra
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, praised the Ghanaian diaspora in London for their enormous contribution to public life.
“Londoners of Ghanaian origin contribute significantly to our health and transport services, and to entertainment, arts, and architecture,” he stated.
“You should be proud to be a Londoner — and prouder if you are of Ghanaian origin and African ancestry.”
Mayor Khan stressed that the UK is seeking partnership, not patronage.
“We come here not as patrons but as partners,” he said.
“Accra and other African cities have huge opportunities to offer London.”
He emphasized trade as a key avenue, revealing that UK-Ghana trade is approaching £2 billion, while UK-Africa trade is projected to hit £60 billion by 2030.
“No other city in the world can boast of the Ghanaian diaspora we have in London. We would be kidding ourselves if we didn’t build on that.”
Mutual Admiration and Forward Vision
In a gracious conclusion, Mayor Khan commended President Mahama for his leadership during a challenging period.
“Mr. President, I think you can teach us a lot — how you’re rebuilding trust and confidence, addressing the cost-of-living crisis, and using technology and climate challenges to drive real solutions,” he said.
Both leaders expressed commitment to creating prosperity and opportunity for citizens of both nations through deepened partnerships, innovation, and people-to-people exchanges.
