The United Kingdom is deepening its economic and development ties with Ghana, marking a shift from traditional aid models to a modernised, investment-led partnership.
During a three-day visit to Ghana, UK Minister for International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman, highlighted the progress and potential of this evolving relationship.
The visit underscored how the UK is redefining its international development approach — one that prioritises long-term investment, trade, and mutual growth. Baroness Chapman described the UK-Ghana partnership as a model of innovation, economic collaboration, and shared values.
“The UK-Ghana partnership is thriving, using innovation and expertise to create opportunities for both our countries,” she said. “Together we are tackling global challenges, and British expertise is helping to unlock opportunities and wealth here, including generating an extra £100 million in tax revenues last year.”
A notable outcome of the partnership has been the success of a UK-backed tax programme in Ghana, which generated an additional £100 million in 2024 alone. These funds have been redirected into vital public services, including health and education, reinforcing Ghana’s capacity to independently fund its own development goals.
Baroness Chapman stressed that the UK’s role is now focused on being a long-term partner and investor, echoing the sentiments of Ghana’s leadership.
“Ghana’s leaders have said they ultimately want a fair opportunity to trade rather than our aid, and our relationship is typical of the UK’s new modernised approach to international development, one where we invest in and work with countries, as partners.”
The partnership has also facilitated the mobilisation of over £125 million in investment into key sectors of Ghana’s economy — including automotive, pharmaceuticals, and garments — resulting in the creation of more than 5,000 jobs. These developments are enhancing local production capacity, particularly in pharmaceuticals, where UK support has enabled the manufacture of both essential and advanced medicines for regional and global markets.
During her visit, Baroness Chapman toured several initiatives showcasing the strength and scope of UK-Ghana cooperation. At Atlantic Life Sciences, a pharmaceutical company supported by UK expertise, she observed the production of crucial medicines such as snake venom anti-serum. This facility is part of a wider network of over 300 active research collaborations between the UK and Ghana, aimed at bolstering innovation and global health security.
The Minister also visited a major garments company backed by British International Investment — the UK’s development finance institution. The factory, one of the largest in the region, plays a key role in women’s employment and exports ethically made clothing across the globe. In addition, she visited a school that supports children in reintegrating into Ghana’s education system, co-funded by the UK, as well as a hospital supported by the Global Fund and the UK, which provides vital care for diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV.
In high-level discussions with President Mahama, Baroness Chapman reinforced the UK’s commitment to building a stronger, investment-driven partnership. Talks focused on improving the ease of doing business, strengthening private sector engagement, and expanding research cooperation.
The visit concluded on a commemorative note, as the Minister honoured the legacy of Arthur Wharton — the world’s first Black professional footballer, born in Ghana and later a player for Darlington FC. In the lead-up to the 160th anniversary of his birth, Baroness Chapman joined representatives from Ghana’s Football Association in celebrating Wharton’s legacy and the enduring historical, cultural, and social ties between the UK and Ghana.
“We are celebrating the enduring relationship between the UK and Ghana built on historical ties, shared values, and vibrant people-to-people connections,” she added.
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
