Former President John Dramani Mahama has announced that the Ghanaian cedi is the best-performing currency in the world in 2025, as he invited Japanese businesses to take advantage of Ghana’s growing investment opportunities.
Speaking at the Ghana Presidential Investment Forum on the sidelines of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IX) on Wednesday, Mahama highlighted Ghana’s economic rebound and renewed investor confidence.
“For years, the cedi was one of Africa’s most volatile currencies, even ranked as the worst-performing,” he admitted. “But today, I’m happy to announce that the Ghana cedi has become the best-performing currency in the world.”
Economic Recovery and Stability
Mahama pointed to falling inflation, sovereign credit rating upgrades, and sweeping reforms as evidence of Ghana’s turnaround.
- Inflation dropped from 23% in 2024 to 13.7%, with expectations of hitting single digits by year-end.
- Ghana’s credit rating has improved from “junk status” to B-minus with a stable outlook.
- Structural reforms have lowered the cost of doing business and improved transparency.
Ghana as a West African Business Hub
Positioning Ghana as a stable, democratic, and business-friendly gateway to Africa, Mahama reminded investors of the country’s unique role as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“With AfCFTA, nearly 50 African countries allow duty-free, tariff-free trade among each other. Investors in Ghana gain access to a potential market of 1.4 billion people,” he explained.
Reforms to Attract Investors
Mahama announced changes to the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre Act, making it easier for foreign businesses to set up in Ghana.
“Previously, investors had to meet strict minimum capital requirements. In the revised Act, we are removing those barriers. Even with as little as $50,000 or $100,000, you can now start a business in Ghana,” he said.
Priority Sectors for Japanese Businesses
The former president highlighted opportunities in:
- Automobile assembly: leveraging Japan’s manufacturing expertise for both local and continental markets.
- Agribusiness: the Volta Economic Corridor will irrigate 2 million hectares of land and host agro-processing parks.
- Energy and infrastructure: tapping into Ghana’s growing renewable energy and port systems.
- Digital economy: with Ghana’s youthful, English-speaking population rapidly adopting AI, robotics, and fintech.
“Ghana’s fintech sector is growing faster than in any other African country,” Mahama emphasized.
Strengthening Ghana Japan Partnerships
Mahama concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between the two nations.
“Africa is the next frontier for global investment. Let us combine Japan’s strengths with Ghana’s potential to create a win-win partnership for the future,” he urged.
