The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), in partnership with the German Development Cooperation, has successfully completed a five-day Investment Promotion Workshop. This program strengthened the capacity of 50 GIPC staff members to promote, facilitate, and retain quality investments that contribute to Ghana’s sustainable economic development.
The workshop brought together staff from key operational and technical divisions within GIPC. These divisions included Investment Promotion and Business Development, Investor Services and Exemptions, and Research and International Cooperation. The training aimed to foster a unified approach to investment generation, recognizing that various functions collectively shape investor experience and Ghana's competitiveness.
This initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening Ghana’s investment promotion ecosystem. As countries increasingly compete for technology, innovation, skills, and sustainable partnerships, Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) must become more proactive. This training helps GIPC evolve into an institution that actively generates investments and provides effective support throughout the investment lifecycle.
Simon Hochstein, Head of Component for Invest for Jobs, GIZ Ghana, emphasized the importance of this training. He stated, “Strengthening the capacity of investment promotion professionals is essential to building a competitive and sustainable investment ecosystem.” Mr. Hochstein added that the workshop equips GIPC officers with the knowledge and tools needed to attract quality investments, enhance investor confidence, and contribute to Ghana’s economic transformation.
Throughout the five-day program, participants gained insights into international best practices in investment promotion. They used practical case studies, interactive discussions, and collaborative exercises. This enabled them to apply modern investment promotion tools to Ghana’s priority sectors and investment opportunities effectively.
Simon Madjie, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, expressed confidence in the workshop's impact. He believes it has enhanced officers' understanding of the Centre and strengthened their professional judgment. Mr. Madjie also noted that the knowledge gained should be reflected in the quality of their work and their engagement with investors.
The training also provided a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among officers across departments. This fosters a culture of continuous learning and excellence within GIPC. Mr. Madjie reaffirmed management’s commitment to investing in the continuous learning and professional development of staff.
This workshop aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to leverage its strategic position as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. Enhancing the capacity of investment promotion professionals supports Ghana’s ability to effectively position itself as a gateway for regional and global investors. These investors seek opportunities within the African market, making skilled GIPC staff crucial.
The Investment Promotion Workshop forms part of the German Development Cooperation’s broader commitment to strengthening Ghana’s private sector development. This commitment is achieved through capable institutions and skilled professionals. The program was implemented under the Special Initiative “Decent Work for a Just Transition,” operating under the brand Invest for Jobs.
The improved skills of GIPC staff are expected to lead to more efficient investment attraction and retention. This will likely boost foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into Ghana, impacting job creation and economic growth. Decision-makers and markets will closely watch how these enhanced capabilities translate into tangible investment figures in the coming quarters.