Bangkok:The Bank of Ghana has laid out a comprehensive four-point strategy aimed at increasing Asian investment in West Africa. The plan includes mechanisms to track progress with fixed deliverables and timelines, aiming to convert investment discussions into tangible economic benefits.
According to Ghana Web, the agenda was presented by First Deputy Governor Dr. Zakari Mumuni at the High-Level West Africa–Asia Capital Dialogue in Bangkok. Dr. Mumuni, representing Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama, emphasized that the success of the initiative would be measured by actual investments, business expansions, and sustained partnerships rather than mere discussions.
The first step in the plan involves identifying priority sectors and projects in West Africa that are appealing to Asian investors. For Ghana, these sectors include agro-processing, manufacturing, energy, transport and logistics, digital services, and financial technology. Dr. Mumuni highlighted the need for improvements in trade facilitation, logistics, payment systems, and dispute resolution to fully realize the potential of these sectors.
The second step focuses on establishing structured engagement channels between African project sponsors and Asian investors to facilitate specific deals. Although Asian capital is present in Ghana, the flow of new investments remains limited. Notably, China led foreign direct investment by the number of projects in 2025, though new investors accounted for a small portion of the investments.
Expanding collaboration on trade finance, payment connectivity, and local-currency financing constitutes the third step. Dr. Mumuni underscored the importance of long-term financing and the benefits of local-currency financing in reducing currency mismatches and strengthening project viability.
The fourth step involves creating a mechanism to track progress with clear deliverables and timelines, with regional development finance institutions playing a coordinating role. This aims to address the common issue of unfulfilled pledges at such investment forums.
Dr. Mumuni also outlined four priorities to transform the investment landscape better risk-sharing, stronger project preparation, appropriate financing structures, and lasting institutional partnerships. He addressed common investor concerns such as exchange-rate risks, regulatory uncertainties, and infrastructure gaps, urging investors to evaluate opportunities based on individual merits.
Highlighting Ghana's economic recovery, Dr. Mumuni cited easing inflation and recent upgrades in the country's sovereign rating. However, he cautioned that macroeconomic stability alone is insufficient to attract investors, emphasizing the need for policy predictability and credible institutions.
He clarified the central bank's role in maintaining stability, efficient payment systems, and transparent foreign-exchange arrangements, while partnering with investors to develop viable solutions.