Ghana Told to Recast Diaspora Expertise as Global Economic Export

Ghana Told to Recast Diaspora Expertise as Global Economic Export

Economic and investment leaders have called on Ghana to rethink how it engages its diaspora, urging the country to shift from a remittance-focused model to one that deliberately exports skills, services, and enterprise through its global citizens.

Speaking at a London–Accra economic forum, panellists argued that Ghana’s long-term growth will depend less on attracting raw capital and more on integrating diaspora knowledge, professional networks, and service-based industries into national development planning. They described the diaspora as a strategic asset capable of positioning Ghana as a competitive services hub.

Technology and policy analyst Bright Simons said Ghana continues to miss opportunities in high-value services, despite strong global demand. He noted that the country spends heavily on imported services such as ICT, consulting, media, and creative content, yet has not developed a coherent export strategy in these sectors.

According to him, the diaspora is uniquely positioned to bridge this gap because Ghanaians abroad understand international standards, consumer behaviour, and market expectations. He stressed that modern manufacturing is increasingly driven by services like design, branding, and marketing, areas where Ghana can compete without relying on low labour costs.

From an investment perspective, officials at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre said interest from diaspora entrepreneurs is rising across sectors including manufacturing, fintech, renewable energy, tourism, and agro-processing. They highlighted growing momentum around value-added production, digital finance, and green construction, much of it driven by diaspora-led initiatives.

The GIPC disclosed that a dedicated Diaspora Desk has been established to support overseas Ghanaians seeking to invest at home. Beyond entry facilitation, the desk provides regulatory guidance, aftercare services, and access to verified land to reduce investment risks.

However, speakers cautioned that regulatory compliance remains a common stumbling block. Diaspora investors were advised to engage early with institutions such as the Bank of Ghana and the Ghana Revenue Authority to avoid costly delays linked to licensing, taxation, and sector approvals.

Financing challenges were also discussed, particularly for startups and early-stage businesses. Investment professionals noted that while family funding and angel investors often play an initial role, development finance institutions are increasingly supporting firms that demonstrate stable operations and positive cash flow over time.

Moderators at the session noted that Ghana’s recent economic performance, combined with strong diaspora remittance inflows, underscores the scale of untapped potential. They concluded that Ghana–UK economic cooperation must now focus on building cross-border ecosystems where diaspora professionals drive services exports, innovation, and sustainable job creation.