Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, Victor Smith, has urged members of the Ghanaian business community in Savannah, Georgia, to reach out to him directly if they encounter bureaucratic obstacles when seeking to invest in Ghana.
“Call me personally when you fail to meet the right people — that’s why I’m here,” he told participants during an open forum engagement with members of the Ghanaian community and other stakeholders.
The meeting, held in an informal dining setting on Tuesday, February 10, brought together Ghanaian professionals and community representatives based in the United States to discuss diaspora engagement and national development.
The roundtable format created a cordial atmosphere that encouraged candid exchanges on governance, investment, and bilateral cooperation.
Participants raised concerns about frustrations they face when attempting to channel investments and business opportunities into Ghana, citing difficulties in navigating official processes and accessing the appropriate institutions.
Responding to the concerns, Ambassador Smith acknowledged the challenges but stressed that Ghana’s economic direction and the role of the diaspora in national development were closely linked.
“The economic direction of our country and the role of the diaspora are not separate issues. They go hand in hand,” he noted, encouraging potential investors not to be discouraged by setbacks.
The discussion was marked by calm but animated exchanges, reflecting strong interest among attendees in contributing to Ghana’s development. Participants also sought clarification on issues of public interest and ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ghana and the United States.
Ambassador Smith emphasised the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and active engagement between Ghana’s diplomatic mission and Ghanaians living abroad.
The Savannah meeting forms part of ongoing outreach initiatives by Ghana’s diplomatic officials aimed at strengthening ties with citizens in the diaspora and incorporating their perspectives into national development efforts.
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