Collins Sefa The Government has reiterated its commitment to moving from dialogue to concrete action in addressing diaspora-related issues, as stakeholders gathered for Day Two of the Diaspora Summit 2025 in Accra on Saturday, 20th December.
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, in a speech read on her behalf by the Deputy Minister, Hon. Sampson Ahi, said the summit marked a critical transition from reflection to implementation.
She explained that while Day One of the summit focused on history, identity, and shared purpose under the theme “Resetting Ghana: The Diaspora as the 17th Region,” Day Two was dedicated to translating shared aspirations into practical partnerships and measurable outcomes.
According to the Minister, key discussions focused on policy approaches to deepening diaspora engagement, the Sankofa Initiative, the 24-Hour Economy, and diaspora investment tools aimed at aligning skills, capital, and global networks with Ghana’s national development priorities.
Hon. Ofosu-Adjare reaffirmed Ghana’s position as a strategic gateway to Africa, noting that businesses operating from Ghana can access a market of over 1.4 billion people through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She highlighted trade, agribusiness, and industry as key sectors offering significant opportunities for diaspora investors.
She further outlined government efforts to strengthen value chains, support local production, revive key industries, and improve the business environment through clear and predictable policies, stressing that national development depends on strong partnerships and active diaspora participation.
The Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Hon. Julius Debrah, in a speech read on his behalf, disclosed that nearly three million Ghanaians live outside the country. He emphasized that diaspora engagement should go beyond remittances, adding that with the right systems in place, Ghana could attract increased investment from Ghanaians abroad.
He said that under President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, the diaspora remains a central pillar, urging the need to involve the youth more actively, particularly as government deepens recognition of the diaspora as Ghana’s 17th Region.
Representing the Asantehene, Nana Dr. S.K.B. Asante, Paramount Chief of the Asokore Traditional Area, called for enhanced public education among Ghanians on branding Ghana positively, both domestically and internationally, to project a strong national image.
In a message to the summit, the Global Diasporan Council announced plans to establish a Global Homeland Fund next year in partnership with government, describing it as a potential game changer for investment in Ghana.
Meanwhile, GIPC Chief Executive Officer, Simon Madjie, in a presentation urged diasporans to look beyond Accra when investing, noting that other regions across the country offer equally compelling and sustainable investment opportunities.
Tags: DIASPORA SUMMIT 2025
