AmCham Ghana Data Protection Week Webinar.

During this year’s Data Protection Week, the American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana brought together members, partners, and regulators to discuss the evolving landscape of privacy, cross‑border data flows, and digital trade. AmCham Ghana CEO Doris Kafui Afanyedey opened the webinar by welcoming members and the Ghana Data Protection Commission (DPC) for the collaboration.  Ms. Doris emphasized that, as data underpins innovation in financial services, trade, and service delivery, it is essential to establish trust and compliance frameworks that support both local and multinational companies operating in Ghana.

The webinar aimed to focus on practical steps to build a robust privacy ecosystem while fostering cross‑border data flows, including:

  • Clarifying Ghana’s data protection and regulatory expectations for local and multinational businesses
  • Examining cross-border data flows in the context of cloud services, fintech, AI, and digital trade
  • Highlighting how strong data governance builds trust, competitiveness, and investor confidence
  • Providing practical guidance for CIOs, compliance, legal, and ICT leaders navigating data risk and opportunity

The key Speaker for the webinar, Quintin Nero Jones Akrobotu,  Director of Regulatory Compliance at the Data Protection Commission, emphasized that under Section 58 of the Data Protection Act, data controllers must appoint certified data protection supervisors who understand Ghana’s legal framework and can monitor compliance.  He reiterated that the Commission has published training guidelines for the Certified Data Protection Supervisor (CDPS) program, which equips professionals with practical skills to interpret the Act, support internal compliance frameworks, and handle data subject requests.  By investing in local certification, multinationals demonstrate respect for Ghanaian data subjects and strengthen their own governance structures.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of cross‑border data flows for Ghana’s digital economy.  According to a 2025 issue brief by the Future of Privacy Forum, cross‑border transfers are critical to Africa’s digital trade and are recognized in the African Union Data Policy Framework.  The protocol on digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) calls for free flow of data while respecting privacy and security.  Mr. Akrobotu noted that Ghana’s alignment with these frameworks will help businesses leverage cloud services, fintech platforms and artificial‑intelligence systems while safeguarding personal data.

In a Q&A session, participants asked about the use of AI in recruitment and the rights of candidates subjected to automated decisions.  Mr. Akrobotu clarified that individuals have the right to be informed when automated decision‑making is used and may request a human review of decisions.  He reminded employers that data‑driven technologies must be deployed responsibly and that individuals have the right to explain the circumstances behind adverse inferences.  Such safeguards protect privacy while allowing innovation. He also clarified that companies outside of Ghana can still register with the DPC after they receive a Tax Identification Number (TIN) from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

 

Finally, the DPC highlighted its Privacy Seal programme, which recognizes organizations that demonstrate strong privacy practices and compliance.  Businesses were encouraged to apply for the seal as a public commitment to accountability.  The Chamber will continue working with the DPC to ensure members have access to training and guidance.

AmCham Ghana Consumer Goods, Retail and Agribusiness Sector Committee Sets Goals for 2026

AmCham Ghana’s Consumer Goods, Retail & Agribusiness Sector Committee convened its inaugural 2026 session with a clear mandate: to align private-sector voices and sharpen advocacy around some of the most pressing challenges facing Ghana’s consumer goods and agribusiness ecosystem.

Members identified standards harmonisation as a top priority, particularly across West Africa. Inconsistent and weakly enforced standards, ranging from food safety and quality to raw-material inputs, continue to distort competition, disadvantage compliant firms, and undermine consumer trust. The Committee agreed that stronger engagement with regulators, including the Food and Drugs Authority and standards agencies, will be critical.

A second major concern was policy unpredictability in imports and pricing, especially in agriculture. Participants highlighted how mismatches between local supply realities and import duties, such as maize oversupply in some seasons and shortages in others, create volatility for producers, processors, and consumers alike. The Committee called for more responsive, data-driven policy decisions that reflect real market conditions.

Closely linked to this was the need for credible market intelligence. Members expressed concern about fragmented and often inaccurate data informing both public policy and private investment decisions. Improving access to reliable statistics on production, imports, demand, and pricing was seen as essential to reducing market “noise” and supporting better business planning.

Governance challenges in regulated sectors, notably cocoa, also featured strongly. Participants stressed that weak coordination, delayed decision-making, and limited private-sector consultation can erode value across entire value chains, ultimately affecting farmers, investors, and national revenue.

Looking ahead, the Committee agreed to focus on three core workstreams for 2026:

  1. standards and regulatory enforcement,
  2. market intelligence and data transparency, and
  3. structured policy dialogue with relevant ministries and agencies.

Through targeted engagements, smaller technical dialogues, and member spotlights, the Consumer Goods Committee aims to position AmCham Ghana as a constructive platform, one that amplifies evidence-based private-sector input while supporting sustainable growth in Ghana’s consumer and agribusiness sectors.

Mr Clarence Amenyah (Country Director of Herbalife Nutrition Ghana) was nominated to chair the committee, and Mr Max Essoh Latte was nominated as the vice-chair.  The Committee Members’ companies include Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Limited, Cargill Ghana, Masco Foods, Bunge Loders Croklaan, Warc Ghana, Coca-Cola Equatorial Africa, Herbalife Ghana, Flour Mills of Ghana, Epac Flexible Packaging, Agrimat Limited, Union Beverage, Afam Concept, and Orkin Ghana.

View Event Highlights Here

Africa Trade Summit 2026 Opens in Accra with Strong Call for bold reforms to accelerate Africa’s Development

The 2026 Africa Trade Summit officially opened on Wednesday at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, Accra, bringing together Heads of State, ministers, development finance leaders, and private sector executives to advance Africa’s industrial and trade transformation.

Organised by the African Trade Chamber, the two-day summit is focused on financing Africa’s industrialisation through value chain development, beneficiation, and deeper market integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

AmCham Ghana participated in the summit with a delegation led by its Chief Executive Officer, Doris Afanyedey, underscoring the Chamber’s commitment to promoting private sector engagement, trade facilitation, and industrial development across Africa.

Opening the summit, President John Dramani Mahama underscored the urgency for Africa to move beyond raw material exports toward manufacturing and value addition. He noted that while Africa is rich in natural resources, it continues to capture only a fraction of global industrial value, a situation that must change if the continent is to create jobs and retain wealth.

The Executive Chair of the African Trade Chamber, Benedicta Lasi, emphasised that Africa’s challenge is no longer about vision but execution, highlighting the need for coordinated industrial policies, reliable energy, efficient infrastructure, and long-term capital to support private sector investment.

Special addresses from UNIDO and Ghana’s Ministry of Trade reinforced the message that AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement but an industrial framework that rewards preparation, competitiveness, and regional integration.

Discussions throughout Day One highlighted the critical role of the private sector, development finance institutions, and regional cooperation in translating policy commitments into measurable industrial outcomes.

As part of Day One proceedings, a Ministerial Dialogue on Industrial Policy, Local Content and Value Creation was held under the theme “Accelerating Africa’s Industrial Transformation: Converting Extraction into Value and Building Industrial Champions.” The session was moderated by Simon Madjie, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).

Panelists included H.E. Fatou Haidara, Deputy Director General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); Hon. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Minister of International Relations and Trade of the Republic of Namibia; and Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Ghana’s Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry.

The ministers emphasised the importance of robust industrial policy, effective local content frameworks, and regional value chains in transforming Africa’s extractive sectors into engines of value creation, employment, and competitiveness.

The summit continues today with ministerial dialogues, infrastructure and connectivity plenaries, and private sector engagement sessions aimed at advancing implementation.

 

Welcome Our New Gold Member: IoTeedom Ltd

The American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana is pleased to welcome IoTeedom Ltd as a Gold Member, strengthening our growing community of innovation-driven organizations shaping Ghana’s digital and sustainability future.

 

IoTeedom Ltd is a technology company dedicated to accelerating the transition from traditional urban environments to smart, resilient, and sustainable cities. With urban areas accounting for an estimated 75% of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, IoTeedom focuses on addressing the urgent need for smarter energy use, efficient city operations, and data-driven urban planning.

 

At the core of IoTeedom’s work is a smart city data management software suite that integrates advanced technologies such as big data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, cybersecurity, advanced modelling, and autonomous systems. The platform enables cities, businesses, and planners to collect, analyze, and interpret urban data—while tracking resiliency indicators, including social impact, environmental performance, and quality of life, in real time.

 

Through actionable insights and continuous learning, IoTeedom supports informed decision-making that helps cities optimize operations, improve sustainability outcomes, and enhance the well-being of residents. The company also places strong emphasis on capacity building and training, empowering stakeholders to actively participate in solving socioeconomic and environmental challenges.

 

We are delighted to welcome IoTeedom Ltd to AmCham Ghana as a Gold Member and look forward to their contributions to our discussions on smart cities, digital innovation, sustainability, and technology-driven development.

 

Welcome to the AmCham Ghana community!

The AmCham ICT & Digital Economy sector Committee, Chaired by IBM West Africa Regional Director, Advances Innovation and AI Adoption

The ICT, Digital Economy & Innovation Committee of AmCham Ghana held its 2nd committee meeting on 21 January 2026, chaired by the Regional Director (West Africa) of IBM Ghana, with a strong focus on innovation and technology adoption among members.

 

Building on earlier policy-focused engagements, the meeting shifted attention to practical, member-driven solutions that support digital adoption, productivity improvements, and alignment with Ghana’s broader innovation agenda.

 

Driving innovation and AI adoption

Members discussed the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation in business operations. Conversations emphasized moving beyond theory to practical application, highlighting how responsible AI and trusted digital tools can improve efficiency, build skills, and unlock new opportunities.

 

The Committee also reflected on how private sector experience can constructively inform national innovation conversations, ensuring emerging frameworks remain grounded in real business needs.

 

Strengthening member collaboration

A key theme of the meeting was collaboration within the AmCham network. Members explored ways to enhance information-sharing, peer learning, and coordinated engagement, enabling businesses to better connect expertise and identify opportunities across sectors.

 

Focused, member-centric initiatives

Looking ahead, the Committee will prioritize practical initiatives for members, including:

  • Engaging actively with the  Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations and agencies on the full suite of ICT-related legislative bills, to ensure practical, business-friendly outcomes for members.

 

  • Knowledge-sharing sessions and expert clinics
  • Business-focused digital productivity and innovation discussions
  • Thematic programmes supporting technology adoption

 

What’s next

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to delivering tangible value for members, supporting responsible innovation, and contributing to a competitive, future-ready digital economy.

 

Members are encouraged to participate in upcoming programmes, including the ICT Data Protection Week themed webinar scheduled for 28 January, and other committee activities planned for the year.

View Event Pictures Here.

AmCham Ghana Opens 2026 with Inaugural Economic Insight Forum

AmCham Ghana officially kicked off its 2026 programme calendar with its maiden engagement of the year, the 2026 Economic Insight Forum, held on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, at the Mövenpick Hotel, Accra

Hosted in partnership with the PwC Ghana, the half-day high-level forum was convened under the theme:

“Ghana’s 2026 Economic Outlook: Risks, Opportunities & Policy Imperatives.”

The Forum brought together AmCham members, senior executives, policymakers, professional services firms, and the Ministry of Finance for a data-driven discussion on Ghana’s macroeconomic trajectory and its implications for business planning and investment decisions in 2026.

 

Key Speakers and Insights

The Forum featured a keynote economic presentation by Mr. Richard Ansong, Partner at PwC Ghana, who provided a detailed outlook on Ghana’s economic performance and prospects. The presentation highlighted:

  • GDP growth outperforming earlier projections
  • Significant moderation in inflation, with expectations of single-digit inflation in 2026, subject to continued fiscal discipline
  • Improved foreign exchange reserves and debt sustainability
  • The importance of maintaining policy consistency and institutional discipline to sustain recent gains

A high-level panel discussion followed, with contributions from Dr. Banahene Thompson of the Dr. Banahene Thompson, and a private-sector stakeholder representative, by Mr Mark Appiah of GE. Discussions focused on fiscal consolidation, revenue mobilisation, tax compliance, energy costs, and the impact of global geopolitical developments on Ghana’s economy.

 

CEO Remarks: U.S. Companies Ready to Support Ghana’s AI Agenda

In her opening remarks, Doris Kafui Afanyedey, Chief Executive Officer of American Chamber of Commerce Ghana, described the Forum as a timely engagement at a critical inflection point for Ghana’s economy as the country transitions into 2026.

She emphasized that while macroeconomic stabilization is underway, business leaders require credible, data-driven insights that translate headline indicators into practical implications for investment, risk management, and growth planning. The Forum, she noted, was intentionally designed to go beyond forecasts, focusing on candid discussion of risks, bankable opportunities, and the policy reforms needed to support sustainable and inclusive growth.

Doris reaffirmed AmCham Ghana’s role as a trusted convener of high-level public-private dialogue, bringing together policymakers, analysts, and businesses to move from uncertainty to insight and from dialogue to action, while encouraging active participation from members throughout the day.

She encouraged government institutions to leverage the in-country presence of U.S. firms, including Google, Oracle, IBM, Microsoft etc stressing that these AmCham members offer immediate access to trusted global expertise on AI, aligned with Ghana’s development priorities.

A Platform for Candid Dialogue

True to its design, the Forum prioritised interactive engagement, allowing participants to raise practical concerns around tax policy, compliance costs, power reliability, data governance, and geopolitical risks. The robust Q&A session reinforced the need for continued dialogue between the private sector and policymakers to ensure reforms translate into improved competitiveness and investor confidence.

Looking Ahead

As AmCham Ghana’s first programme of 2026, the Economic Insight Forum set a strong tone for the year, reaffirming its role as a bridge between U.S. businesses and Ghanaian policymakers.

Insights from the Forum will inform AmCham Ghana’s 2026 advocacy and engagement agenda, as the Chamber continues to support policies that promote stability, innovation, and sustainable growth.

AmCham Ghana Hosts Maiden ICT & Digital Economy Committee Sitting

Accra, Ghana- Wednesday, 3rd December 2026- The American Chamber of Commerce in Ghana (AmCham Ghana), led by CEO Doris Kafui Afanyedey, successfully hosted the maiden sitting of the ICT & Digital Economy Committee at the Chamber Secretariat. The meeting represents a key milestone in deepening collaboration and policy advocacy across Ghana’s fast-growing digital ecosystem.

The session brought together leading industry players and technology partners, including representatives from Google West Africa, IBM Ghana, Microsoft Ghana, Oracle Ghana, American Tower Corporation (ATC), E-Services Africa Ltd. (Esal), Apotica Limited, Multithread ICT Solutions Limited, Devops Africa Limited, NCR Corporation, and Trimble Export Limited. Officials from the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, led by Senior Counselor Rachel Kresil, and supported by Commercial Officer Laurie Kelleher, Jennifer Antwi, an Economic Specialist at the Economic Section and Commercial Specialist Victoria Agbai, also joined the meeting to reinforce the shared U.S.–Ghana commitment to digital advancement.

Discussions centered on reviewing the mandate, vision, and objectives of the ICT & Digital Economy Committee, as well as examining current developments within Ghana’s policy and regulatory environment. Members also set priorities for the sector’s challenges and opportunities, while aligning on the 2026 Workplan, upcoming stakeholder engagements, and key flagship initiatives to drive industry growth.

AmCham Ghana expresses sincere appreciation to Multithread ICT Solutions Limited, proud sponsor of this maiden sitting, for their invaluable support and dedication to promoting digital innovation and transformation in Ghana.

This engagement underscores the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the U.S.–Ghana commercial partnership through strategic platforms that enable dialogue, innovation, and sustainable technology-driven development

 View event photos here

Delta Air Lines resumes non-stop flights from Accra to Atlanta

AmCham Ghana joined its Platinum Member, Delta Air Lines, at the Kotoka International Airport for the official launch of the expanded seasonal Accra to Atlanta service.

The expanded service, which complements Delta’s year-round operation from New York JFK, enhances travel flexibility for business and leisure passengers and supports the rising flow of commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange. Remarks from U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Rolf Olson, GACL Managing Director Yvonne Nana Afriyie Opare, GCAA Director-General Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur, and GTA CEO Marilyn Maame Efua Houadjeto highlighted the diplomatic, operational, and economic significance of the new connection and reaffirmed the shared commitment to strengthening Ghana’s role as a regional aviation hub.

The flight, operated on the Airbus A330-900neo, delivers an improved onboard experience across all cabins, including Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort, and Delta Main, with seatback entertainment and free Wi-Fi for SkyMiles Members.

The Chamber was represented by CEO Doris Kafui Afanyedey and members of the Secretariat, who participated alongside Delta’s leadership team, headed by Eliona Baddoo, General Manager, Ghana. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the start of the daily flight that will run for six weeks through January 16, introduced in response to strong travel demand between Ghana and the United States during the peak holiday season.

AmCham Ghana congratulates Delta Air Lines on this milestone. It remains committed to supporting initiatives that advance U.S.–Ghana commercial ties and expand opportunities for travelers and businesses on both sides.

Thanksgiving, Partnership, and Purpose: Reflections from AmCham Ghana’s 36th Annual Celebration

Thanksgiving stands as one of America’s oldest and most meaningful traditions, rooted in a story of resilience, generosity, and shared abundance. The first Thanksgiving in 1621 brought together early settlers and the Wampanoag people to celebrate a successful harvest after years of hardship. Over centuries, this simple gathering evolved into a national holiday symbolizing gratitude, community, and the belief that even in challenging seasons, there is always something to give thanks for.

For Americans, Thanksgiving is not merely a holiday; it is a philosophy. It calls communities to pause, reflect, and acknowledge the people, partnerships, and opportunities that make progress possible. It is this same spirit that guides AmCham Ghana’s cherished annual Thanksgiving Dinner, now in its 36th year.

This year’s celebration, our most attended to date, with over 380 members, partners, and leaders, brought that spirit to life. The presence of Hon. Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff to the President of Ghana, as Special Guest of Honour, alongside Rolf Olson, the Chargé d’Affaires and U.S. Embassy leadership, added profound significance to the evening.

Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, the Chief of Staff reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to strengthening the U.S.–Ghana partnership, based on shared democratic values and mutual respect. He highlighted Ghana’s ongoing macroeconomic recovery, citing positive indicators such as 8% inflation and 6.3% economic growth in Q2 2025. He encouraged U.S. businesses to explore emerging opportunities in technology, energy, manufacturing, and digital transformation as the government continues its efforts toward stability, transparency, and investment-friendly reforms.

The Chargé d’Affaires echoed this message, commending AmCham’s leadership and the Chamber’s role in shaping a dynamic, predictable environment for U.S. companies in Ghana. He reaffirmed the Mission’s commitment to expanding bilateral trade and investment while supporting American businesses operating in Ghana.

What We Should Be Grateful for This Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving season offers an important moment for reflection, both as Ghanaians and as members of the U.S. business community.

As Ghanaians, we are grateful for:

  • A resilient economy that continues to stabilize and rebound.
  • A strong democratic tradition that enables peaceful transitions and continuity in governance.
  • A vibrant private sector that continues to invest, innovate, and create jobs.
  • Trusted bilateral partnerships, especially with the United States, that support technology transfer, capacity building, and long-term development.

As the U.S. business community in Ghana, we are grateful for:

  • A welcoming investment environment, strengthened by reforms and renewed policy dialogue.
  • Growing commercial opportunities in digital innovation, energy transition, logistics, health, and manufacturing.
  • A dependable local workforce whose skills and resilience fuel the success of U.S. companies operating in Ghana.
  • A strong partnership with the government and the U.S. Mission, which continues to champion transparency, predictability, and collaboration.
  • The AmCham ecosystem, which remains a trusted bridge, offering advocacy, insights, networks, and platforms to help businesses grow.

A Celebration of Community

This year’s Thanksgiving Dinner also recognized outstanding sponsors, partners, and contributors whose support strengthens the Chamber’s mission. The overwhelming participation and positive feedback reaffirm the power of community and the importance of gratitude in building lasting partnerships.

As AmCham Ghana looks toward 2026, we carry forward a shared message: Thanksgiving reminds us that progress is built together. Whether as Ghanaians or as members of the U.S. business community, we have much to appreciate, and even more to look forward to.

This is the heart of the AmCham Business Bridge: connecting communities, strengthening partnerships, and advancing shared prosperity.

AmCham Ghana Explores USTDA Project Preparation and Partnership Tools for Members

AmCham Ghana recently engaged with Jillian Foerster, Regional Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), to explore how its project preparation tools can support our members and Ghana’s infrastructure plans.

USTDA shared how its feasibility study grants, technical assistance, reverse trade missions, and training grants could help move projects from concept to bankability, while also opening doors for U.S. technology and expertise.

Also discussed opportunities in energy, ICT, transport, aviation, mining-related infrastructure, agribusiness, and ports and logistics, as well as challenges around customs and project financing.

AmCham will be working with USTDA to brief our members in more detail and build a pipeline of serious, high-impact projects that can benefit from these tools.