Ghana is set to formally apply for membership in BRICS, a bloc of major emerging economies seeking greater influence in global economic and political governance, following Cabinet approval. This move, announced by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in Accra, aims to diversify Ghana’s international partnerships and expand opportunities for economic development.
Ablakwa stated that joining BRICS aligns with the Mahama administration’s vision of moving beyond economic stabilization to transformative growth. This strategy relies on diversified international cooperation, investment, and industrialization.
Expanding Partnerships for Economic Growth
The decision to join BRICS is part of a broader “new economy” agenda, anchored on seven pillars. These pillars focus on creating jobs, attracting investment, and maximizing the value of Ghana’s natural resources through strategic partnerships.
Ablakwa emphasized that BRICS membership would complement, not replace, existing relationships with traditional development partners like the IMF and World Bank. “But BRICS offers us that opportunity to have options in development, and you want to have options,” he said, highlighting the importance of having multiple avenues for growth.
Ghana’s diplomatic missions and longstanding ties with BRICS members, particularly India, Brazil, and China, are expected to support its engagement with the bloc. Trade between Ghana and India, for instance, has surged from $3 billion to $7 billion, demonstrating the strength of this partnership.
A Multipolar Approach to Development
Ablakwa stressed that Ghana supports a multipolar international system, which allows countries greater autonomy in shaping their development paths. This approach aims to reduce reliance on conditions set by a limited number of institutions.
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“We want resource sovereignty,” Ablakwa declared, showing the need for equal partnerships. This stance reflects a broader aspiration among Global South nations to redefine their roles in the global economy.
Ghana has already sought India’s support in its bid to join BRICS. Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, during his visit to Accra, expressed understanding of Ghana’s interest. He noted that BRICS values independent thinking and freedom of choice among its members.
Jaishankar added that while India supports Ghana’s aspirations, the decision requires collective consideration by BRICS members. Ghana is now preparing its formal application, leveraging its diplomatic ties to strengthen its case.
Strengthening Ties with BRICS Members
Ghana’s bid to join BRICS is supported by its strong diplomatic and historical ties with the bloc’s members. Foreign Minister Ablakwa highlighted the country’s excellent relations with founding members Brazil, Russia, India, and China, as well as newer members.
The historical connection between Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, was noted as a cornerstone of the relationship. Both leaders played central roles in the Non-Aligned Movement, supporting close cooperation between their nations in multilateral affairs since their early years of independence.
