Ghana is set to receive big investments from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This comes after a visit by Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to the Gulf nation. During his two-day visit, Mr. Ablakwa met with top UAE officials and business leaders. These meetings led to firm promises from UAE companies to invest in Ghana’s key sectors.
He was welcomed by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. Mr. Ablakwa also met with, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, Lana Nusseibeh, Assistant Minister for Political Affairs and other ministers in charge of foreign trade and investment.
This visit supports President John Mahama’s plan to grow the economy under the theme “Ghana is Open for Business Again.”
The UAE private sector showed strong interest in areas like; Renewable energy, Artificial intelligence (AI), Education, Healthcare, Aviation and Defense.
Several UAE companies are expected in Ghana soon to start feasibility studies and begin new projects. The focus on renewable energy comes at a time when Ghana is working to improve its energy mix and boost sustainability.
Mr. Ablakwa also shared on social media that discussions covered plans to develop Ghana’s aviation sector. In a boost for youth employment, the Minister said both countries reached a deal in principle to send skilled Ghanaian workers to the UAE. This plan could create thousands of jobs.
The final agreement depends on the completion of the ongoing Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Ghana and the UAE. Mr. Ablakwa called the visit a “milestone in Ghana’s international economic diplomacy” and thanked both governments and his team for their support.
Next steps will focus on speeding up investment processes and making it easier for UAE businesses to enter the Ghanaian market.