Mahama Champions Women’s Empowerment at Beijing Summit, Seeks Stronger Ghana-China Investment Ties

Mahama Joins Global Summit on Women’s Empowerment in Beijing

President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama have arrived in Beijing, China, to participate in a high-level international summit focused on gender equality and women’s empowerment. The Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women, co-hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping and UN Women, is taking place from October 13 to 14, 2025.

The event brings together heads of state, policymakers, and advocates to reflect on global progress since the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark UN framework for advancing women’s rights.

This year’s summit also coincides with two major milestones: the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 30th anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women, which was also held in Beijing.

President Mahama’s participation is more than ceremonial it represents Ghana’s ongoing commitment to gender equality and inclusive development. In a region where gender disparities continue to limit opportunities for millions of women and girls, Ghana’s visibility at the summit reinforces its intent to align with global best practices.

Despite constitutional guarantees and increased efforts from government agencies, Ghana’s progress in bridging the gender gap remains mixed. According to UN Women, women in Ghana hold just 14.5% of parliamentary seats as of 2025 an improvement, but still below the regional average.

The summit is an opportunity for African leaders like Mahama to renew commitments and push for practical reforms in sectors such as education, health, employment, and political participation.

In addition to attending the summit, President Mahama is engaging in high-level diplomatic talks with Chinese authorities to deepen bilateral cooperation between Ghana and China. Scheduled meetings include:

• President Xi Jinping
• Premier of the State Council, Li Qiang

These discussions are expected to focus on infrastructure development, energy cooperation, trade, and foreign investment areas where China has played a substantial role in Ghana’s recent growth.

According to the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), China was Ghana’s largest source of foreign direct investment in 2024, contributing to multiple projects in manufacturing, construction, and energy.

While in Beijing, President Mahama is also hosting a Presidential Investment Forum, aimed at bringing Ghanaian businesses and Chinese investors together to explore economic opportunities.

The forum will highlight priority sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, logistics, and export-oriented manufacturing. Ghana’s strategic location and stable political environment are being positioned as competitive advantages for potential Chinese investors.

The Ghanaian delegation includes:

• Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry
• Representatives from the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, GIPC, and Free Zones Authority

This initiative builds on Ghana’s broader economic strategy to attract quality investments that generate jobs, improve infrastructure, and expand export capacity.

As part of his visit, President Mahama will travel to Fujian Province, where he is expected to meet with Chinese companies operating in Ghana or expressing interest in entering the West African market.

Fujian is home to several manufacturing and technology firms that have already made inroads into Africa. Mahama’s meetings in the province will focus on business continuity, expansion of operations in Ghana, and potential joint ventures in key sectors like electronics assembly and agro-processing.

President Mahama is accompanied by a diverse and strategic delegation of government ministers and senior advisors, including:

• Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection
• Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Minister for Foreign Affairs
• Kwame Agbodza, Minister for Roads and Highways
• Thomas Ampem Nyarko, Deputy Minister for Finance
• Dr Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President
• Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Presidential Advisor and Special Aide
• Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson
• Nana Yaa Gyantuah, Presidential Staffer

The composition of the delegation reflects a comprehensive approach that spans diplomacy, economic development, and social policy.

Ghana and China have enjoyed strong bilateral relations for decades, with diplomatic ties dating back to 1960. In recent years, cooperation has expanded significantly under Ghana’s infrastructure drive.

China has financed or constructed major projects in Ghana, including the Bui Dam, Tamale Interchange, and various roads and hospitals across the country.

China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has also influenced trade logistics and infrastructure in West Africa, with Ghana seen as a key partner.

President Mahama’s participation in the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women is a strategic move to reaffirm Ghana’s commitment to gender equality while strengthening vital economic ties with China. The visit highlights the intersection of diplomacy and development, demonstrating how global platforms can be leveraged to address local priorities.

As Ghana positions itself for post-pandemic economic recovery and greater gender inclusion, sustained international engagement will be essential for translating commitments into meaningful outcomes.

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