Ghana Business News

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Matilda Asante-Asiedu (inset), Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, speakinMatilda Asante-Asiedu (inset), Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, speaking to participants during the opening of a technical workshop at Senchig to participants during the opening of a technical workshop at Senchi
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Bank of Ghana Warns of Financial Crime Risks as Banking Sector Shows Resilience and Growth

The Bank of Ghana has issued a stern warning regarding the necessity of strengthening the nation’s anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing frameworks to avoid a return to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. Speaking at a workshop organized by COCLAB, the Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Matilda Asante-Asiedu, emphasized that a grey-list designation would severely impair Ghana’s international business operations and correspondent banking relationships. This warning comes at a critical time as the digital financial landscape faces escalating threats, with fraud incidents reportedly surging by 98% between 2022 and 2025. Asante-Asiedu called for deeper collaboration across institutions and the judiciary to safeguard the integrity of the financial system. Underscoring these concerns, the Accra Circuit Court recently remanded two individuals, Wisdom Mandy and Dennis Kudzo Letsa, in connection with a massive GH"127 million cyber theft. The accused allegedly gained unauthorized access to a company's computer systems in August 2023, subsequently laundering the funds through various business accounts. While Mandy and Letsa face multiple charges including conspiracy and money laundering, three accomplices remain at large. This high-profile case, scheduled to return to court in September 2026, serves as a stark illustration of the systemic vulnerabilities and sophisticated financial crimes currently challenging the domestic banking sector. Despite these criminal threats, the broader banking industry continues to show signs of robust recovery and stability. According to the Bank of Ghana’s July 2026 Monetary Policy Report, systemic vulnerabilities remain broadly subdued as macro-financial risks moderate. The sector is characterized by strong capitalization and improved asset quality, with a notable decline in non-performing loan ratios and a gradual recovery in private-sector credit growth. While external shocks and geopolitical tensions remain potential downside risks, the central bank maintains a favorable outlook for the industry, suggesting it is well-positioned to support ongoing economic activity. This positive sentiment is mirrored in the private investment sector, where firms like InvestCorp Treasury Securities Fund PLC are reporting significant gains. In 2025, the fund's assets under management grew to GH"40.4 million, achieving an annual return of 36.58%. This performance was largely driven by a stabilizing cedi and recovering government bond prices following the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. As the industry moves forward, the dual focus remains on maintaining this financial momentum while aggressively closing the gaps in anti-crime frameworks to ensure Ghana remains a secure and attractive destination for international capital.

JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair Connects Prospective Homeowners with Experts at Marina Mall
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JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair Connects Prospective Homeowners with Experts at Marina Mall

The second day of the JoyNews–Republic Bank Habitat Fair at the Marina Mall in Accra saw a high turnout of prospective homeowners, property investors, and builders. Following a successful opening, the three-day event continues to serve as a vital platform for Ghanaians seeking to navigate the complexities of the housing market. Running through September 13, the fair brings together leading professionals to address the growing demand for housing solutions and to bridge the gap between dream homes and practical ownership. A primary focus of the event is the engagement between attendees and Republic Bank Ghana, the headline sponsor. Bank experts are providing specialized guidance on mortgage financing, offering solutions tailored to various professional backgrounds and demographics. These sessions allow visitors to explore financial roadmaps, understand loan eligibility, and gain insights into the latest mortgage products, which are crucial for those looking to transition from renting to owning in a competitive real estate environment. Beyond financing, the fair features a wide array of exhibitors from across the housing value chain, including real estate developers, construction firms, interior decor specialists, and renewable energy providers. This variety allows visitors to compare diverse products and services, from building materials to modern home improvement techniques. The direct interaction with industry experts empowers attendees to make informed decisions regarding property acquisition, management, and sustainable living solutions. As the fair enters its final phase, the high level of engagement underscores the importance of such consolidated marketplaces in Ghana's business landscape. By centralizing mortgage providers, builders, and decor experts, the event facilitates transparency and networking within the sector. The fair remains open to the public through September 13, offering final opportunities for attendees to secure professional advice and explore promotional offers that can turn their homeownership aspirations into reality.

Trade, Transport Ministers confer with GPHA to ease clinker clearance, prevent cement price hike
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Trade and Transport Ministers Secure Additional Berth at Tema Port to Prevent Cement Price Hikes

The Government of Ghana has taken decisive action to address severe congestion at the Tema Port, securing an additional berth specifically for clinker vessels to prevent an imminent hike in cement prices. This intervention follows a high-level meeting between the Minister of Trade and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, and officials from the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The move is designed to clear a significant backlog of raw materials that has forced cement manufacturers to incur millions of dollars in demurrage costs, which threatened to be passed on to consumers. Government officials are prioritizing the stabilization of the construction sector by reducing the average vessel waiting time and streamlining the clearance of industrial inputs. Beyond the specific issue of clinker, the broader port enclave is facing a logistics crisis that has sparked safety concerns among local residents and the business community. Nana Asiamah Peprah I of the Ghana Institute of Freight Forwarders reported that cargo transport times have nearly tripled, significantly inflating operational expenses for businesses reliant on road transport. The Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG) has urged the GPHA to utilize additional properties for container storage to alleviate the spillover of trucks onto public roads, which has hampered emergency services and restricted access to major health facilities in the area. The congestion has reached a point where it impacts not only trade efficiency but also the daily lives of those living in the Tema Harbour enclave. During a tour of the facility, Ministers Ofosu-Adjare and Nikpe emphasized that while the additional berth provides immediate relief, long-term infrastructure upgrades are essential to prevent future bottlenecks. Plans are currently being discussed to allow larger vessels to berth and to expand the port's overall capacity to accommodate increasing cargo volumes. The ministers also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, referencing ongoing dialogue with Sierra Leone to develop African solutions for shared maritime and logistics challenges. As the GPHA works to enhance operations, the government remains focused on safeguarding the national supply chain and protecting the interests of both businesses and the general public from the ripple effects of port inefficiency.

MTN Ghana Secures $109.9 Million 5G Spectrum as Ericsson and NCA Strengthen Digital Infrastructure Partnerships
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MTN Ghana Secures $109.9 Million 5G Spectrum as Ericsson and NCA Strengthen Digital Infrastructure Partnerships

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has taken a significant step toward the nationwide deployment of 5G technology by assigning critical spectrum bands to mobile network operators. Scancom Plc, operating as MTN Ghana, emerged as the successful applicant for the 700 MHz band, securing two of the three available lots for a total license fee of US$109.9 million. This allocation is part of a broader regulatory process involving the 700 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 3 GHz bands intended to enhance mobile broadband across the country. While the 2.3 GHz band was under-subscribed despite four applications, the 3 GHz band saw high demand with applications exceeding available lots, signaling intense competition for high-capacity 5G resources. Parallel to these regulatory milestones, global telecommunications giant Ericsson is commemorating 30 years of operations in Ghana and its 150th anniversary worldwide. Since launching the nation's first commercial GSM network in 1996, Ericsson has been a pivotal partner in Ghana’s digital evolution, facilitating the introduction of 3G and 4G technologies. Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President of Ericsson West and Southern Africa, highlighted the company's commitment to driving future digital transformation through 5G, cloud automation, and mobile financial services. These initiatives are designed to align with Ghana Vision 2057, aiming to establish the country as a regional digital leader through advanced connectivity and artificial intelligence. To further bolster the regulatory environment for these emerging technologies, the NCA recently hosted a high-level delegation from the U.S. Department of Commerce. Discussions led by U.S. representatives Lauren Molina and Theodore Ruth focused on advancements in Ghana’s communications sector and priorities for AI regulation. This international collaboration, combined with the major spectrum acquisitions by MTN and the long-term infrastructure commitments from Ericsson, underscores a coordinated effort between the government, global tech partners, and private operators to modernize Ghana’s digital landscape and prepare for the next generation of mobile services.

Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry
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Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang Outlines Ghana’s Strategy to Build a Multi-Billion Dollar Horticultural Export Sector

The Government of Ghana has launched an ambitious strategic roadmap to transform the nation’s horticulture sector into a global export powerhouse, targeting a significant increase in non-traditional export earnings to US$10 billion by 2030. Speaking at the 14th Ghana Garden and Flower Show, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang emphasized that the administration is committed to replicating the success of industry leaders like Kenya. This vision is supported by recent data showing that non-traditional exports already reached over US$5 billion in 2025, a 30.7% increase from the previous year, signaling strong momentum for the government’s value-addition agenda. Central to this strategy is the establishment of a dedicated cut-flower production corridor stretching from Daboya to the Tamale Air Cargo Hub. Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy, Goosie Tanoh, revealed that the government is partnering with private-sector investors to create an integrated logistics system that connects local greenhouses to international markets in Europe, West Africa, and the Gulf. By leveraging the 24-hour economy model, the initiative aims to provide the necessary cold storage, aggregation, and transport infrastructure required to handle high-value, perishable agricultural products efficiently. This infrastructure is expected to bridge the gap between production and market access, which has historically hindered local growers. Beyond flowers, the government is also tackling domestic food security and import substitution through the Ghana Tomato Self-Sufficiency Initiative (GHATSI). Led by Minister of Agriculture Eric Opoku, GHATSI aims to boost annual tomato production to 400,000 tonnes, addressing a production deficit that currently costs the country over US$400 million in imports. The initiative focus on farmer empowerment and the development of local value chains to ensure stable incomes and sustainable employment. These efforts are complemented by the Shiqpon program, which integrates greenhouse production with processing facilities to maximize the value of every harvest. Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare underscored that the ultimate goal is to shift Ghana away from exporting raw materials toward high-value processed goods. She noted that processing agricultural products locally not only boosts economic growth but also creates vital employment opportunities for the youth. By strengthening the Feed Ghana Program and environmental initiatives like the Tree for Life program, the government seeks to build a resilient agricultural sector that balances commercial success with sustainability. As these corridors and initiatives take shape, stakeholders are calling for continued collaboration to address remaining challenges such as fragmented supply chains and inadequate irrigation.

BRICS Leaders and Business Representatives Convene in New Delhi to Forge New Global Trade and Industrial Networks
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BRICS Leaders and Business Representatives Convene in New Delhi to Forge New Global Trade and Industrial Networks

BRICS member states have intensified efforts to redefine the global economic architecture, emphasizing enhanced trade networks and digital technology as critical connectors. At the BRICS Business Forum held in New Delhi ahead of the group’s annual summit, heads of state and business leaders outlined a vision to transition the bloc from a supplier of raw materials to a hub of production and industrial cooperation. This shift aims to strengthen South-South cooperation and foster a more diversified, multipolar global economy resilient to geopolitical tensions and protectionism. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted initiatives to reduce trade barriers and support start-ups, particularly through digital financial solutions and enhanced infrastructure. Supporting this, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged member states to invest in local manufacturing capabilities to create added value within their borders rather than merely exporting raw commodities. Simultaneously, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for the integration of trade infrastructure and the expanded use of national currencies to facilitate intra-BRICS trade and reduce reliance on traditional financial systems. Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the significant economic weight of the BRICS nations and pledged to enhance business diplomacy to solidify these partnerships. Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira pointed to the increasing share of low- and middle-income countries in global GDP, noting Brazil’s recent economic reforms as a catalyst for manufacturing collaboration. The collective sentiment among leaders was a clear commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable economic landscape through shared technological advancements and industrial ties. Academic experts, including Professor Zamokuhle Mbandlwa from the Durban University of Technology, argue that BRICS is now a cornerstone of development for the Global South. Mbandlwa noted that the group’s substantial population and expanding markets position it as a principal engine for global growth. He particularly highlighted China's role in advancing renewable energy and digital infrastructure, suggesting that deeper economic integration among member states will provide the necessary autonomy and stability for developing nations to thrive amidst ongoing global uncertainties.

Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, addressing participants during the 28th China Mining Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Tianjin, China
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Minister Armah-Kofi Buah Leads Ghana’s Push for Value-Added Mining Partnerships at China Conference

Ghana has intensified its efforts to transform its extractive sector from a raw material export hub into an industrialized mining powerhouse. Speaking at the 28th China Mining Conference and Exhibition 2026 in Tianjin, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, urged Chinese investors to move beyond mineral extraction and embrace deeper partnerships in local processing and value addition. This strategic shift aligns with President John Mahama’s vision for sustainable economic growth, prioritizing job creation and local skills development over the traditional model of shipping out unprocessed ores. Highlighting the scale of opportunity, Isaac Tandoh, CEO of the Minerals Commission, revealed during the "Ghana Day" event that the country possesses vast unexploited gold reserves, estimated at three trillion ounces. Tandoh emphasized that these resources are available under new terms designed to ensure mutual benefits for both the state and international investors. He reassured the global community that Ghana remains a stable, investor-friendly destination with robust legal protections. The focus, according to the Commission, is on fostering "win-win" partnerships that integrate local supply chains and facilitate the transfer of advanced mining technology to Ghanaian professionals. Complementing this vision, Ghana’s Ambassador to China, Kojo Bonsu, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to local beneficiation, particularly within the bauxite sector. Rather than merely exporting raw bauxite, the administration is focused on developing domestic refining capacities and building the necessary infrastructure to support a fully integrated aluminum industry. Ambassador Bonsu noted that the transformation of the mining sector under President Mahama is geared toward creating a transparent regulatory framework that discourages illegal activities while providing a clear path for legitimate, high-impact industrial investment. The dialogue in Tianjin also addressed the critical need for environmental sustainability and regulatory reform. Minister Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted ongoing reviews of mining regulations aimed at curbing illegal mining and ensuring that all operations adhere to strict environmental standards. As Ghana seeks to deepen its long-standing economic ties with China, the emphasis remains on a partnership that respects national sovereignty and environmental integrity. By moving toward a model of industrialization, Ghana aims to secure its position as a leading global mineral producer that converts its natural wealth into long-term prosperity for its citizens.

FABAG Applauds President Mahama for Abolishing Fruit Juice Excise Tax as GIPS Urges Strategic Procurement Reforms
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FABAG Applauds President Mahama for Abolishing Fruit Juice Excise Tax as GIPS Urges Strategic Procurement Reforms

The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has expressed strong support for the government’s decision to eliminate the 20% excise duty on locally manufactured fruit juices, a move seen as a critical lifeline for the industry. Effective from October 1, 2026, this reform is part of the new Excise Duty Act and aims to reverse the financial strain placed on manufacturers since the tax's introduction in 2023. FABAG specifically commended President John Mahama, the Finance Minister, and Parliament for this legislative change, highlighting its potential to stimulate local production, secure employment, and drive broader economic growth. The association noted that the previous tax regime had significantly hampered the competitiveness of local brands against imported alternatives. Beyond the immediate relief for the beverage sector, the association emphasized its readiness to partner with the government to ensure the smooth implementation of the new policy. FABAG stressed that the removal of the 20% levy is a necessary step toward enhancing the overall competitiveness of Ghana's food and beverages sector. They believe that this fiscal adjustment will allow companies to reinvest in their operations, potentially leading to lower prices for consumers and increased demand for locally sourced raw materials. This development is viewed as a major victory for industrial advocacy and a sign of the government's commitment to supporting indigenous businesses. In a related push for economic efficiency, Dr. Simon Annan, President of the Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS), has called for a transformative approach to procurement and supply chain management. Speaking at the second edition of the National Procurement and Supply Chain Conference (NPSC 2026) in Accra, Dr. Annan argued that procurement must evolve from a traditional transactional role into a strategic driver of national development. He asserted that for Ghana to achieve inclusive and measurable industrial growth, the procurement sector must lead the way in fostering innovation and inclusion. Dr. Annan highlighted that strategic supply chain management is essential for optimizing national resources and ensuring that development projects deliver maximum value. The calls from GIPS align with the broader industrial goals supported by the recent tax reforms for beverage manufacturers. By focusing on innovation and strategic oversight, Dr. Annan believes the procurement sector can significantly improve economic outcomes across various industries. He urged the government and private sector players to recognize procurement and supply chain management as vital components of the national development agenda. This dual focus on fiscal relief for manufacturers and the professionalization of supply chains suggests a comprehensive strategy aimed at bolstering Ghana's industrial landscape. As the country moves toward the implementation of the new tax regime in late 2026, stakeholders remain optimistic about the prospects for sustainable economic expansion.

InvestCorp Reports GH¢40.4m Asset Growth as Absa Bank Urges Ethical Leadership in Ghana's Business Sector
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InvestCorp Reports GH¢40.4m Asset Growth as Absa Bank Urges Ethical Leadership in Ghana's Business Sector

Ghana's financial sector is showing signs of robust recovery and growth in 2025, led by significant gains in the investment market. InvestCorp Treasury Securities Fund PLC reported a substantial increase in assets under management (AUM), which rose from GH¢33 million to GH¢40.4 million. This performance was bolstered by a 36.58% annual return, a result of declining interest rates and recovering domestic government bond prices following the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme. The fund's success in meeting all redemption requests while expanding its strategy to include offshore sovereign securities signals a stabilizing domestic market and a resilient cedi. In tandem with these financial gains, industry leaders are emphasizing the importance of ethical foundations for sustainable business growth. Dr. Edward Botchway, Managing Director of Absa Bank Ghana, recently challenged entrepreneurs at the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship International to pursue ambitious goals despite economic hurdles. Dr. Botchway highlighted that integrity remains a cornerstone of successful Christian-led enterprises, urging leaders to reject unethical practices. This call for higher standards aligns with new digital initiatives announced by International President Francis Owusu, aimed at supporting the fellowship's expansion and improving Ghana’s reputation for national development. On the international stage, corporate leadership structures are also evolving, particularly within the luxury goods sector. Richemont, the global luxury group, has appointed Anton Rupert as non-executive co-deputy chairman. Anton, the son of Africa's second-richest man and Richemont chairman Johann Rupert, has served on the board since 2017. In his new role, he is tasked with overseeing the group’s creative and commercial strategy, marking a significant step in the succession planning of the multibillion-dollar empire. While corporate leadership focuses on strategic growth, a recent legal ruling in Singapore serves as a cautionary tale regarding the intersection of personal finances and professional standing. Chander Agarwal, a logistics CEO, lost a High Court bid to recover S$468,000 (approximately $369,200) spent on gifts for an ex-girlfriend. The court ruled the expenditures were gifts made out of affection rather than loans, highlighting the legal complexities that can arise when business leaders fail to clearly document financial transactions. These diverse developments across the local and global landscape underscore the multifaceted nature of the modern business environment, where financial strategy, ethical leadership, and legal prudence must coexist.

Makeup Ghana leads move to shape future of Ghana’s beauty and wellness industry
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Telecel Unveils Digital Marketplace as Japan Motors Introduces Geely EVs and Kente Advocates Call for Industrial Investment

Ghana’s commercial sector is undergoing a multi-faceted transformation, marked by the launch of new digital marketplaces, the introduction of electrified transport solutions, and growing calls for industrializing traditional crafts. Telecel Cash has officially entered the e-commerce space with the launch of "Telecel Shop," an integrated platform within the Telecel Play App designed to connect consumers with a network of trusted merchants. Simultaneously, Japan Motors Trading Company Ltd has expanded Ghana’s automotive options by unveiling Geely’s new electrified vehicle range, signaling a shift toward sustainable, high-tech mobility in the local market. The launch of Telecel Shop, developed in partnership with Flood Pte Ltd, aims to position the Telecel Play App as a primary digital hub for Ghanaian consumers. The platform offers diverse fulfillment options, including home delivery and in-store pickup, while empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through the Telecel MerchantPro App. This move coincides with global shifts toward "agentic commerce," where AI agents are increasingly expected to handle autonomous purchasing and negotiating tasks. Experts predict that such AI-driven mediation could represent trillions of dollars in global consumer commerce by 2030, making Telecel’s move into a unified digital ecosystem a strategic step toward capturing future consumer behaviors. In the automotive sector, Japan Motors’ introduction of the Geely Galaxy range—including the all-electric EX5 SUV, the EX5 EM-i plug-in hybrid, and the compact EX2—brings advanced driver-assistance systems and ultra-fast DC charging to the Ghanaian market. Managing Director Amine Kabbara emphasized that these vehicles are tailored for real-world needs, supported by an 8-year or 200,000 km warranty. This investment in electrified mobility mirrors broader industrial advocacy seen in the cultural sector, where Kente Ambassador Amma Prempeh is urging the government and private investors to capitalize on the rising global demand for Ghanaian Kente. Prempeh argues that current production capacity in Bonwire must be scaled through the establishment of local yarn manufacturing and digital certification systems to protect the authenticity of the iconic cloth. Finally, efforts to formalize and provide data for Ghana’s emerging industries are gaining momentum. Makeup Ghana, in collaboration with the University of Ghana’s College of Humanities, recently initiated a technical workshop to develop the inaugural Ghana Beauty and Wellness Report. Led by CEO Rebecca Donkor and Professor Sheena Lovia Boateng, the project aims to provide evidence-based insights into the industry's economic contributions and workforce challenges. Together, these developments in digital trade, sustainable transport, cultural manufacturing, and industry research suggest a maturing business environment focused on building infrastructure and data-driven global competitiveness.

Ghana’s Digital Economy Propels 6% GDP Growth in Q2 2026 as Communication Sector Dominates
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Ghana’s Digital Economy Propels 6% GDP Growth in Q2 2026 as Communication Sector Dominates

Ghana’s economy recorded a year-on-year growth of 6.0% in the second quarter of 2026, a performance heavily underpinned by a burgeoning digital economy and the communications sector. According to official data from the Ghana Statistical Service and reporting by Graphic Online, the services sector emerged as the largest contributor to this growth, accounting for 57.6% of GDP, with the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sub-sector leading the charge with a remarkable 30.9% expansion. This robust digital performance highlights a shifting economic landscape under the administration of President John Mahama, even as the overall growth rate saw a slight decline from the 6.6% recorded during the same period in 2025. Despite the strong showing in services, the agricultural sector faced significant headwinds, with its growth rate slowing from 7.1% to 3.9%. A particularly concerning trend was observed in the fishing sub-sector, which experienced a 24.7% contraction, posing risks to livelihoods in coastal communities. These internal challenges are reflected in the currency market; as of September 11, 2026, the Ghanaian Cedi experienced slight depreciation, trading at an average selling rate of GHS 12.15 at forex bureaus, while the Bank of Ghana’s interbank market maintained a more stable selling rate of GHS 11.46 for the US dollar. Beyond Ghana’s borders, regional trade dynamics show significant shifts and dependencies. Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, imported goods worth N11.01 trillion from China in the first half of 2026, representing nearly 40% of its total imports. This heavy reliance has prompted warnings from Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) regarding the rise of counterfeit product networks. Simultaneously, Algeria is successfully navigating its own economic transition, reporting a 5.4% growth in non-hydrocarbon activities during the first half of 2025 as it diversifies into agri-food, manufacturing, and mining to reduce its reliance on oil and gas. The integration of digital financial tools like stablecoins is increasingly seen as a mechanism to mitigate currency volatility and high banking costs across the continent. Ghana’s recent Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) law, alongside international frameworks like the U.S. GENIUS Act of 2025 and the EU’s MiCA regulations, is creating a more regulated and credible environment for digital assets. These advancements facilitate quicker and cheaper transactions for local businesses, ultimately improving economic efficiency. As West African nations navigate sector-specific vulnerabilities, the continued expansion of the digital economy remains a critical anchor for regional growth and stability.

Sunbeth Global Concepts and Ghana's MoFA Lead Regional Agribusiness Transformation Amid Sustainability and Climate Challenges
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Sunbeth Global Concepts and Ghana's MoFA Lead Regional Agribusiness Transformation Amid Sustainability and Climate Challenges

West Africa’s agricultural landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as corporate leaders and government officials push for greater sustainability and self-sufficiency. In a landmark move for Nigeria, Sunbeth Global Concepts (SGC) has become the first agricultural firm in the country to adopt the IFRS S1 and S2 Sustainability Disclosure Standards. Launching its inaugural 2025 Sustainability Report, titled "Responsible Sourcing, Pioneering Action," the leading agro-commodities exporter detailed its commitment to ethical practices. Managing Director Olasunkanmi Owoyemi and Sustainability Director Oyinkansola Owoyemi highlighted milestones including the polygon-mapping of 140,000 hectares for traceability, the remediation of child labor cases, and the export of over 58,000 metric tonnes of cocoa in 2025. While Nigeria celebrates corporate reporting milestones, Ghana is intensifying its efforts to reduce reliance on food imports. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), led by Minister Eric Opoku, has launched the Ghana Tomato Self-Sufficiency Initiative (GHATSI) in Anloga, Volta Region. This initiative aims to address the nation’s annual USD 400 million expenditure on tomato imports by building an integrated domestic value chain. GHATSI targets an annual production of 400,000 tonnes across 40 districts, with an initial goal of 100,000 tonnes for the 2026/2027 cycle. The program is designed not only to secure food supplies but also to stabilize farmer incomes and create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth. Innovation and empowerment are also taking center stage in the cashew sector. Ashesi University’s Ghana Climate Innovation Centre (GCIC), in partnership with the Ghana Private Sector Competitiveness Programme II (GPSCP II), has launched the Women’s Agribusiness Incubation Programme. Funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the initiative focuses on transitioning women-led businesses from simple cashew trading to high-value creation. This push for value addition aligns with broader regional trends, though trade hurdles remain. In neighboring Ivory Coast, cocoa traders and cooperatives are facing significant pressure from a new digital traceability system mandated by upcoming European Union regulations, which experts fear could disrupt supply at the start of the 2026/27 season. Despite these advancements in policy and industry standards, environmental challenges continue to threaten regional food security. In Ghana’s Sissala East and West districts, a prolonged dry spell has devastated several acres of maize and soybean crops. Farmers report that nearly a month without adequate rainfall since early August has led to yellowing plants and sharp declines in crop vitality. Environmentalists warn that if the dry conditions persist, the resulting crop failures could escalate into a national crisis, driving up food prices and undermining the livelihoods of rural communities. The contrast between these climate risks and the region's ambitious self-sufficiency goals underscores the urgent need for resilient agricultural infrastructure.