State visits are far more than ceremonial occasions. They are powerful tools of diplomacy that open doors to investment and innovation. 

They deliver real benefits and opportunities for our people. Ghana’s recent high-level engagements with Japan through TICAD, and with Singapore mark a new era of strategic and transformative partnerships. 

In Singapore, His Excellency John Mahama made history as the first Ghanaian President to be formally received on a State Visit.

Beyond the symbolism, his visit unlocked over US$1 billion in investment deals from OLAM’s agro-processing and job-creating projects, to Shangri-La’s US$300m iconic hotel and convention centre, to vital upgrades in aviation, ports and transport systems.

Each of these projects aligns with Ghana’s Reset Agenda – to drive job creation, boost trade and modernise critical infrastructure.

Equally significant, the visit also opened new avenues for education and skills development, including TVET collaboration with the Singapore Institute of Technology, capacity-building for Ghana’s Chief Directors, and new opportunities for technology transfer.

With plans for a Ghana Consulate in Singapore and Enterprise Singapore already in Accra, our two nations are positioning themselves as gateways between Africa and Asia.

Through TICAD, Ghana also continues to expand its strategic partnership with Japan, particularly in technology, industrialisation, health and human resource development.

These initiatives reflect Japan’s enduring commitment to Africa’s development, while reinforcing Ghana’s role as a bridge between Asia and Africa.

Together, they broaden opportunities for trade, investment and knowledge-sharing across continents.

As President Tharman of Singapore aptly observed, “President Mahama is a man on a mission.

” That mission is clear – to secure a prosperous future for Ghana through smart diplomacy that translates into tangible transformation for our people. 

For me personally, a key highlight of the State visit to Singapore was the power of soft diplomacy, from the planning of the visit to the Singapore Botanical Garden to the ceremonial naming of the elegantly unique golden Vanda orchids after President John  Dramani Mahama in commemoration of the historic visit by the Ghanaian leader! 

Wait until you hear about the rules governing the export of orchids or the permits required to carry President Mahama’s precious Vanda stems to Ghana.

Each step of the way, you see efficiency, integrity and love for country.  

“Ghana is indeed open for business” 

HE John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.