Ghana and Czech Republic Join Forces To Drive Economic Growth

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with the Czech Republic, particularly in the areas of trade, industry, investment, and technological development.

Speaking at the opening of the Czech-Ghana Business Forum in Accra—part of a three-day state visit by Czech President Petr Pavel—President Mahama emphasized the vast potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between both nations.

The Forum focuses on strategic sectors such as agriculture, health, and water resource management, fostering collaboration between private sector players from both countries.

President Mahama highlighted the historical significance of Ghana-Czech relations, which date back to October 8, 1959, when Ghana first established diplomatic ties with the former Czechoslovak Socialist Republic.

“Today, we stand poised to elevate this relationship, transforming our historical bonds into dynamic 21st-century economic partnerships,” Mahama said.

He stressed that the gathering of influential business leaders and government officials signified the importance both nations place on deepening commercial and economic ties, especially amid ongoing global challenges.

President Mahama noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents new opportunities for partnership, as Ghana positions itself as a strategic gateway to West Africa’s growing market of 1.3 billion consumers.

He also introduced his administration’s 24-Hour Economic Policy, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at boosting productivity, optimizing infrastructure, and generating sustainable employment across key industries.

“This policy aligns with the goals of AfCFTA and focuses on sectors ripe for Czech-Ghanaian collaboration, including manufacturing, automobile production, and agro-processing,” Mahama explained.

He welcomed Czech expertise in machinery, automotive components, and advanced agro-processing technologies, all of which could help Ghana create high-value supply chains and maximize its agricultural potential.

In healthcare, President Mahama praised the Czech Republic’s excellence in medical innovation and manufacturing, citing the Medivac Programme and the Kpone Mini Hospital project as key areas of successful collaboration.

On trade, President Mahama shared data from the UN Home Trade Database showing that Czech exports to Ghana totaled $20.82 million in 2023, while Ghanaian exports to the Czech Republic reached approximately $1.12 billion. He described this trade imbalance not as a deficit but an opportunity for growth and diversification.

Czech President Petr Pavel commended Ghana for its democratic strength, natural resources, and leadership in regional stability.

“In an increasingly unstable world, Ghana stands out as a beacon of stability and opportunity. We share a common interest in building on friendship, shared values, and sustainable partnerships,” President Pavel said.

The Forum concluded with a strong commitment from both sides to foster deeper cooperation, build lasting partnerships, and unlock the full potential of Czech-Ghanaian economic relations.