President’s Japan Visit Secures $100M Investment For Agriculture – Okudzeto Ablakwa

Ghana has secured a $100 million facility to support new agricultural projects following President John Dramani Mahama’s working visit to Japan and his participation in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who announced the development in a Facebook post on Sunday, August 24, 2025, noted that the trip has resulted in several landmark agreements between Ghana and Japan.

Beyond the $100 million agricultural initiative, both governments have revived the long-stalled Volivo–Dorfor Adidome Bridge project across the Volta River, with immediate funding commitments confirmed. The Kumasi inner-city ring road project has also been cleared to commence.

Strategic Partnerships
Mr. Ablakwa revealed that Ghana signed a new agreement with Toyota to expand its operations, establishing Ghana as the company’s hub for West Africa. Additionally, Ghana entered into a groundbreaking space cooperation deal with Japan to harness space science for national development.

Human Capital Development
The visit also secured opportunities for training 300,000 young Ghanaians in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, modern agriculture, green transition, and technology entrepreneurship. On food security, Ghana and Japan agreed to apply advanced scientific research to enhance rice production and strengthen agricultural systems.

Investments & Industrialisation
Japan is further considering a $1.5 billion investment package for Africa, with Ghana positioned to be a key beneficiary through strategic industrialisation collaborations.

Mr. Ablakwa commended President Mahama’s efforts, describing them as “a bold vision for resetting and transforming Ghana.” He also highlighted the enduring strength of Ghana–Japan relations, nearly a century after renowned Japanese scientist Hideyo Noguchi lost his life while serving in Ghana.