Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Emmanuel Victor Smith, has met with members of the Chicago branch of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in a fruitful engagement, during which he called on Ghanaians in the diaspora to partner with local businesses and foreign investors to accelerate Ghana’s economic transformation.
Addressing the delegation, the Ambassador said his years in public service and diplomacy have been driven by a desire to improve the lives of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad. He explained that his current mission in the United States is to support the government’s economic agenda by attracting investment and creating opportunities for Ghanaians.
“My mission here is to find ways of getting would-be investors, foreign investors, to partner with Ghanaians in the diaspora to come and assist with the economic transformation of our country,” he stated.
He highlighted emerging opportunities in aviation, mining, agriculture, manufacturing and infrastructure, noting that Ghana is positioning itself as a gateway to the African market, with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat headquartered in Accra.
He also encouraged members of the diaspora to take advantage of the government’s 24-Hour Economy initiative, which he said could create employment opportunities for young people through expanded manufacturing and industrial activity.
The Ambassador urged Ghanaians abroad to consider investing and establishing stronger ties with the country’s private sector, stressing that they need not abandon their lives overseas to contribute to Ghana’s development.
“You can have a home in America if you so wish. You should go back to Ghana for us,” he said, encouraging the delegation to act now and help build a stronger economy.
As a gesture of appreciation for his engagement and continued service, the NDC delegation presented the Ambassador with a specially commissioned portrait of him. The presentation was warmly received and formed part of the memorable moments of the meeting.
The team asked several questions ranging from payment of contracts executed, taxes, inability to clear goods from ports, and many challenges faced by investors. Ambassadors assured they would be available to assist in every way as long as it benefits Ghana’s growth.
The Ambassador concluded with a call for collective effort, saying, “Let’s work together to make Ghana a big country”.