Accra: The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Ghana has expressed optimism regarding the recent visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting its potential to enhance trade and investment between India and Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Emmanuel Doni-Kwame, the Secretary-General of ICC, emphasized the long-standing relations between the two nations since Ghana’s independence, and expressed hope that the visit would further deepen and enhance these ties. He noted that Ghana’s political stability and peace are key factors that make the nation attractive to investors.
In discussions with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Doni-Kwame acknowledged India’s significant role in advancing Ghana’s technological landscape, particularly in Information Technology (IT). He pointed out that India is advanced in digital technology, programming, and software development, advocating for knowledge sharing and investment in this area. He also stressed the need for more IT schools in Ghana to produce skilled labor, which would bolster the economy.
Mr. Doni-Kwame further highlighted India’s contribution to technology in Ghana’s manufacturing sector. He called for increased investment in agricultural machinery, waste recycling, biodegradable plastics, bioenergy, nuclear energy, and solar power. He mentioned the importance of joint research in agriculture, especially in seed quality, and suggested collaboration between Ghana’s Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and Indian technical institutions.
Infrastructure development, particularly in rail transport, is another area where Mr. Doni-Kwame sees opportunities for investment. He remarked on Ghana’s need for improved infrastructure to facilitate the movement of people and goods, reduce post-harvest losses, and ease congestion in the capital city.
In the pharmaceutical industry, Mr. Doni-Kwame pointed out Ghana’s abundant raw materials and advocated for joint ventures to produce drugs locally, aiming to make Ghana the pharmaceutical hub of Africa. He also suggested cultural cooperation through joint movie productions, leveraging India’s vibrant film industry to rejuvenate Ghana’s movie sector.
Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Ghana included bilateral talks with President John Dramani Mahama, resulting in the signing of several memoranda of understanding to foster collaboration and exchanges. The visit has enriched the friendship between Ghana and India and reinforced their commitment to strategic partnerships.