TRADE volumes between Ghana and South Africa hit US$1 billion in 2024.
The Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Ghana, Thando Dalamba, disclosed this in an interview on the sidelines of the Global South African Business Luncheon in Accra on Thursday.
He said the current trading levels did not reflect the full potential of the two economies, despite Ghana being one of South Africa’s key partners in West Africa.
“Trade between South Africa and Ghana is improving, and we are encouraged by the trend. But it is still not at the level we would like to see. There is more we can do together,” he stated.
He explained that although the numbers showed positive improvement, the two governments were committed to strengthening frameworks that would drive investment and bilateral commercial activity to greater heights.
He commended the diaspora for their contribution which had become increasingly central to South Africa’s economic presence across the continent.
“These achievements are not accidental. They are the result of the hard work of our private sector, including diaspora-led enterprises that continue to build investor confidence and link our markets,” he added.
Strengthening ties
He further reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its economic ties with Ghana for mutual benefit.
“We have a long-standing relationship built on cooperation, and we believe there is still vast untapped potential. Our aim is to unlock that potential for the good of both countries,” he said.
Touching on areas of cooperation, the Ag High Commissioner outlined several sectors that both governments and the private sector players were currently engaging.
“The two countries are collaborating in mining, agriculture, agribusiness, hospitality, retail, and property development.
Agriculture is especially important because the Ghanaian government is emphasising agribusiness and agricultural production. Mining, as you know, has always been an area where South African expertise is strong,” Mr Dalamba said.
He indicated that South African companies already operating in Ghana continued to explore opportunities, while new investors were assessing the local environment, supported by the Ghana–South Africa Business Chamber.
The General Manager for Global Markets at Brand South Africa, Jimmy Ranamane, emphasised that human connection remained the foundation of meaningful trade partnerships.
He said South Africa was promoting a movement that fostered collaboration in trade, arts and culture, while also taking the G20 message of shared prosperity and equality across the continent