Ghana’s economic transformation has entered a decisive phase under President John Dramani Mahama. His recent engagements in China have deepened Ghana’s strategic partnerships, secured significant investments, and reaffirmed the nation’s readiness to embrace an inclusive and sustainable 24-hour economy. With clear policy direction, strong diplomatic ties, and dedicated leadership, Ghana is positioning itself as West Africa’s next great centre of industrial growth and innovation.
A vision rooted in purpose
President Mahama’s diplomacy has always been purposeful, grounded in a belief that international partnerships must deliver practical benefits at home. His official visit to Beijing, where he met President Xi Jinping, epitomised that approach, turning goodwill into tangible outcomes.
The discussions produced a series of landmark agreements focused on sustainability, infrastructure, and trade. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promoting green transitions, tackling illegal mining, and expanding renewable energy investments.
“Diplomacy must deliver real dividends for our people. Every engagement must bring Ghana closer to industrial strength, sustainability, and shared prosperity,” President John Dramani Mahama stated.
Strategic gains for national development
The outcomes of the Beijing visit have been both immediate and substantial. China has granted Ghana 400 million RMB in development support this year alone, including 200 million RMB already allocated for a new modern market in Aflao in the Volta Region. Another 200 million RMB will finance new projects selected by the Mahama administration.
Perhaps most significant is the decision to finalise a zero per cent tariff agreement by 28 October 2025, which will make Ghana only the second African country to enjoy such preferential access to China’s vast market. This milestone, combined with Ghana–China trade volumes exceeding 11.8 billion US dollars, promises a new era of enhanced exports and investment flows.
The big push and 24h+: driving Ghana’s economic engine
Central to President Mahama’s development agenda are two flagship programmes. The first is the National Infrastructure Development Programme, popularly known as “The Big Push”, a multi-billion-dollar initiative targeting the modernisation of roads, railways, water systems, and industrial infrastructure across the country.
The second, the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programme (24H+), is designed to ensure that Ghana’s economy operates efficiently around the clock, boosting production, exports, and employment. Together, these programmes form the cornerstone of a new industrial renaissance, connecting opportunity with productivity.
President Mahama’s recent diplomatic gains with China directly support these programmes – ensuring that infrastructure development and continuous economic activity move hand in hand.
The green city: a model for sustainable growth
Among the initiatives championed by President Mahama is the Green City Project, a transformative plan to create an eco-friendly, high-tech metropolis spanning the Greater Accra, Volta, and Eastern Regions. The Green City will integrate renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and sustainable architecture, setting new standards for urban living in Africa.
An inter-ministerial committee and a transaction advisor have already been appointed to guide its development. The project will not only reduce Ghana’s carbon footprint but also generate thousands of jobs in construction, energy, and technology.
“This city will embody the future we are building – clean, digital, and inclusive,” President Mahama noted.
“It is a symbol of what Ghana stands for: progress with responsibility.”
Promoting investment through professional leadership
The drive to attract global investors is being expertly led by Simon Madjie, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).
A lawyer and a seasoned investment promotion professional, Madjie has been instrumental in positioning Ghana as one of Africa’s most competitive and investor-friendly economies.
At the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, Madjie invited Chinese firms to explore opportunities in electric vehicle production, renewable energy, and value-added manufacturing.
He underscored Ghana’s strategic advantages from its skilled workforce and renewable energy potential to its rich deposits of lithium, bauxite, and manganese.
“Our message to investors is clear,” Madjie said. “Ghana is open for business, ready for innovation, and committed to protecting your investment through sound policies and strong institutions.”
Madjie also highlighted the potential of Ghana’s industrial zones, including the Dawa Industrial Zone and Appolonia City, as ideal locations for electric vehicle assembly and high-value manufacturing.
The 24-hour economy in motion
The 24-hour economy concept is not a distant aspiration; it is already taking shape. By encouraging industries, logistics, health, digital services, and manufacturing sectors to operate efficiently beyond traditional working hours, the policy is designed to expand employment, strengthen exports, and keep the economy active at all times.
Through the 24H+ framework, Ghana is developing the human capital and infrastructure necessary to sustain round-the-clock productivity. It is a model that supports both large-scale enterprises and small businesses, ensuring that no capable Ghanaian is left without opportunity.
Ghana’s confident march into the future
President Mahama’s engagements in China reflect a leader who understands that effective diplomacy must align with national priorities. His focus on the 24H+, The Big Push, and the Green City demonstrates a coherent, long-term vision for Ghana’s transformation.
Under his leadership, Ghana is regaining momentum, creating jobs, deepening international partnerships, and building infrastructure that will serve generations. With professionals like Simon Madjie(Esq.) advancing Ghana’s investment agenda, the nation stands ready to seize the opportunities of the modern global economy.
President Mahama’s diplomacy has become more than statecraft; it has become a catalyst for sustainable progress. Ghana is not waiting for the future – it is building it, 24 hours a day.
