Savannah: Ambassador Victor Emmanuel Smith, at the behest of the Greater Savannah Ghana Alliance, in partnership with the City of Savannah and World Trade Center Savannah, Georgia, delivered a compelling address to high-level US civic leaders and business professionals at the inaugural Greater Savannah Ghana Business Forum.
According to Ghana Web, the address highlighted the expanding opportunities in trade and investment and emerging markets within Ghana's stabilized and progressing economy, earning a standing ovation from participants. This display of support underscores confidence in the leadership of John Dramani Mahama and his agenda of revitalizing Ghana's economic landscape under the mantra "Ghana is open for Business."
Ambassador Smith focused on Ghana's stabilized macroeconomic indicators, improved public financial management, and restored credibility with international partners, which have led to a surge in investor confidence. He attributed these achievements to deliberate government policies aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth.
The Ambassador emphasized the importance of partnerships with diaspora expertise and adding value to the country's resources, which can create opportunities for Ghana's youth in talent recognition and skills development. He highlighted the commitment to forming long-term partnerships that are inclusive and future-focused.
He advocated for creating environments where individuals can thrive in their home countries, with opportunities for cultural enrichment and shared prosperity. By converting dialogue into investment, young Ghanaians can find meaningful work and professional growth domestically, making migration a choice rather than a necessity.
Ambassador Smith assured that Ghana's youth are central to the government's vision for the future, emphasizing that their talents are needed and valued. He called for the transformation of dialogue into action, fostering partnerships with American investors and the diaspora as bridge builders and co-creators, ensuring lasting impact and benefits for all parties involved.
The forum gathered prominent members of Greater Savannah society, including Dr. Joseph Silver, Chair of the Greater Savannah Ghana Alliance; Edna Jackson, Representative of the Georgia House of Representatives; Dr. Seth Borquaye, leader of Medical Missions to Ghana; Leigh Ryan, Senior Vice President, World Trade Center Savannah; Antwone Mohammed, Programmes and Community Development Manager; and Yvonne Horsely McCowin, Honorary Consul for Atlanta and the Southeast Region of the United States.