The Republic of Ghana and the United States of America continue to maintain their long-standing close relations anchored on their mutual commitment to freedom and democratic values. Ghana has in the past hosted several American dignitaries, including Former President Bill Clinton, Former President George W. Bush, Former President Barack Obama, Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Former First Lady Melania Trump, and other Senior Members of past and present U.S. Administrations.
The visit of the Vice President of the United States of America, Kamala D. Harris, is of unique significance because she is the first female vice president of the United States and the first woman of Indian and African heritage to hold that office. Her visit to Ghana and other parts of Africa is an inspiration for the next generation, especially for women leaders working on the continent.
Ghana and the United States have a long history of promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. As the country’s largest bilateral development partner, the United States has always maintained a keen interest in the economic development of Ghana. Bilateral trade between Ghana and the United States is reported to be $1.6 billion as of 2021. Ghana continues to enjoy substantial foreign direct investment from the United States as U.S. FDI into Ghana is estimated to be over 22 billion dollars over the last decade. These companies, through their operations in the country, make significant contributions to the country’s socioeconomic development. Apart from being large tax-paying entities, they continue to employ and develop the skills of thousands of Ghanaians. Also, through various initiatives and Corporate Social Responsibility activities, they have invested millions of dollars in improving the livelihood of host communities and other parts of the country. These companies played pivotal roles in Ghana’s fight against the deadly COVID-19 virus and continue to invest in people and institutions to mitigate the impact of the virus and support the country’s recovery process.
The American Chamber of Commerce, Ghana, is of the firm opinion that the visit of Vice President Kamala D. Harris presents an immense opportunity for both countries to further strengthen their relations, especially in the areas of trade and investment. Ghana should take advantage of this golden opportunity and the moment when the focus of the U.S. would be on our country to drive home the need for more U.S. foreign direct investment, increase diaspora engagement, and strengthen cooperation in the creative, educational, health, security, and cultural sectors.
The government of Ghana must continuously institute the needed reforms that will allow the private sector to lead the economic recovery and position Ghana as the preferred destination for investors. These reforms are critical to reassure investors of the country’s commitment to a private sector-led economy and the growth of free enterprise. Government must also properly align its engagement with the four key pillars of the U.S. strategy towards Sub-Saharan Africa. Namely; to foster open societies; deliver democratic and security dividends; advance pandemic recovery and economic recovery; and support conservation, climate adaptation, and a just energy transition.
On behalf of all U.S. companies, subsidiaries, franchisees, and businesses in Ghana, we say Akwaaba (Welcome) to Vice President Kamala Harris and her entourage to the country, and we look forward to a productive and fruitful engagement with the Government of Ghana.
A statement issued by:
Simon Madjie
Executive Secretary
American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana
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