President John Dramani Mahama has become the first Ghanaian Head of State in history to be invited by a President of Singapore on a State Visit, a milestone that not only marked diplomatic history but also delivered substantial economic gains for Ghana.

During the visit, President Mahama secured investment commitments worth US$1 billion across multiple sectors, reinforcing his 'Reset Agenda' for national transformation.

Among the major deals announced were:

OLAM International’s commitment of US$200 million for new projects, including a 43,000-metric-ton pasta processing plant and feed processing facilities for poultry and aquaculture, is expected to create 4,000 jobs.

Shangri-La Group’s pledge to build a US$300 million ultra-modern 5-star hotel, featuring a grand shopping mall and convention centre, positioning Ghana as West Africa’s top conference hub.

Construction of a 10,000-capacity student hostel for the University of Ghana.

Upgrades to Kotoka International Airport (KIA), with new security scanners to meet global anti-smuggling and drug trafficking standards.

A cooperation agreement to expand Tema Port and revive the Tema Dry Dock.

Construction of a new oil jetty.

Partnership with Singapore’s Land Transport Authority to establish road-testing labs across Ghana to ensure only certified materials are used for road construction.

A central bank collaboration to launch a common payment platform that will strengthen trade between Africa and Asia.

A TVET partnership with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to establish a model Accra Institute of Technology.

Execution of projects under the bilateral Carbon Credit Agreement.

Beyond investments, Ghana and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for regular high-level political consultations, agreed to finalise a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), and initiated capacity-building support for forensic investigators under Ghana’s Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption frameworks.

As part of a public service reset initiative, the first batch of 18 Chief Directors from Ghana’s ministries will travel to Singapore in September 2025 for an intensive leadership and capacity-building programme.

President Mahama also announced plans to open a Ghana Consulate in Singapore by 2026, complementing the already-established Enterprise Singapore office in Accra, which manages Singapore’s West African investments.

Singapore’s President, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, praised Mahama’s vision, saying:

“President Mahama is a man on a mission.

He is determined to see his country and its young population succeed.”

Observers say the strengthened ties recall the historic friendship between Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Lee Kuan Yew, modern founding fathers of Ghana and Singapore, respectively, who were known for their frequent exchange of ideas.

With this landmark visit, President Mahama has signalled his intent to ensure Ghana’s diplomacy directly translates into economic transformation, jobs, and international relevance.