Strong Link

The Dubai Chamber is going to open a representative office in Ghana. How do you assess bilateral relations between Ghana and the Emirate of Dubai?

We have an excellent relationship with the UAE, especially with Dubai, and we have a Consul General in the Emirate. We have had a diplomatic presence there for the last five years. In addition, we have seen a considerable amount of business between Ghana and Dubai already, and Emirates is one of the most popular airlines that crosses the skies from Accra to not only Dubai, but the whole Far East, as well as other parts in the Middle East and Asia. There are also a large number of Ghanaian businesses that have opened representation offices in Dubai and vice versa. The Dubai Chamber is going to open an office in Accra, which is something positive that will take this relationship forward in a faster manner. I would say things are going well, and I hope that our relationship continues to develop.

Which specific sectors have the most potential for growth between the two countries?

The sectors where we see growth have always been in the areas of trading, financial services, and infrastructure development.

What are the strengths that Dubai holds for Ghanaian investors?

The strengths of Dubai for our investment community are numerous. Dubai has always been seen as a hub. It is a in convenient location between the East and Ghana, because a number of the businesses that have been established in Dubai also do business with the Far East and Asia. However, they have their offices located in Dubai because it offers easy access in terms of connectivity in moving from one location to the other. This has considerably helped business between Dubai, Ghana, and wherever else in Asia and the Middle East that our companies have operations.

What are your expectations for Ghana regarding the Expo 2020?

I am sure we will have a fantastic display, and I believe people will find our stand beautiful. Yet, more importantly I hope it creates the right kind of connectivity and helps to strengthen the relationship between Dubai and Ghana. I hope that it especially appeals to businesses and people working out of Dubai and Ghana.

What are the conclusions you draw from the Africa Global Business Forum hosted in Dubai in October 2013?

I believe it was a great forum, and extremely helpful. I also came last year to a similar forum, and this time it was smaller. This makes the forum more effective, and I expect that the people attending will be able to build relationships that will make them want to come here, as well as encourage the business community from Dubai to continue to interact with Ghana.