Washington:Ghana's Ambassador to the United States, Victor Emmanuel Smith, has called on the Ghanaian diaspora to extend their contributions beyond remittances by investing in businesses that can generate employment and enhance living standards in Ghana.
According to Ghana Web, Ambassador Smith urged the diaspora to focus on establishing businesses in sectors such as energy, healthcare, tourism, agriculture, and agribusiness, which are vital for Ghana's economic development.
During a meeting with the Washington Government Relations Group (WGRG), a non-partisan network comprising representatives from corporations, financial institutions, law firms, trade associations, and non-profit organizations, Ambassador Smith highlighted the importance of diplomatic engagements that result in tangible economic benefits, such as investment attraction, business development, and job creation. He emphasized that the success of diplomacy should be measured by the investments attracted, businesses established, and lives improved.
Ambassador Smith also expressed Ghana's desire for strategic partnerships that offer mutual economic benefits rather than relationships primarily centered on the purchase of foreign goods. He encouraged the group members to visit Ghana, explore investment opportunities, and set up local industries to create jobs and provide sustainable livelihoods.
He noted that Ghana's shift towards refining, processing, and higher-value production offers new opportunities for businesses led by the diaspora, with the aim of making migration a choice rather than a necessity due to economic hardship.
Dontal L. Smalls, the leader of the WGRG delegation, welcomed the ambassador's proposals and expressed the group's willingness to collaborate with the Ghanaian Embassy. Smalls mentioned plans for a visit to Ghana in 2027 to coincide with the country's 70th Independence Anniversary, which will include economic engagements and cultural exchanges.
The meeting is part of the Ghanaian Embassy's initiative to mobilize diaspora resources and international partnerships to support long-term economic growth.