The government of Ghana, led by President John Dramani Mahama, has applied to join the BRICS bloc as a partner, seeking to expand its economic options and diversify international partnerships. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa disclosed that the Cabinet has decided to join BRICS, citing the potential for alternative economic and diplomatic partnerships. This move aims to deepen Ghana's engagement with emerging economies and broaden its international economic ties. BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and its membership could provide Ghana with new trade and investment opportunities.
Ghana already enjoys good relations with BRICS member countries, which could facilitate a smooth integration into the bloc. The country's natural resource-rich profile could also benefit from BRICS' large market and investment potential. However, concerns have been raised that Ghana might become a market for powerful BRICS economies, exposing its natural resources to further exploitation without a clear industrial strategy. If not managed properly, Ghana's membership in BRICS might not yield significant benefits, and the country might end up benefiting less than industrial giants like China and India.
Corruption poses a significant threat to Ghana's stability, development, and integrity, and it could undermine the benefits of BRICS membership. The National Commission for Civic Education estimates that Ghana loses over $3 billion annually due to corruption, which could be invested in infrastructure, job creation, and essential services. To address this issue, the Office of the Special Prosecutor advocates for investigations and prosecutions, as well as a comprehensive prevention program to curb corruption. The Office is mandated to take proactive measures to prevent corruption and promote a culture of integrity.
Irregularities in Ghana's public financial system also pose a risk to the benefits of BRICS membership. The Public Accounts Committee has highlighted GH₡5.2 billion in irregularities, with GH₡4.8 billion in tax infractions recorded in the 2025 audit report. The committee's chair, Abena Osei-Asare, expressed concern about the recurrence of similar audit findings, indicating that public institutions are not learning from their mistakes. Unpaid surcharges, totaling GH¢280.5 million, also remain a challenge. Resolving these issues is crucial to ensuring that Ghana benefits from BRICS membership.
Effective internal auditing and stronger internal controls across public institutions are critical to preventing financial irregularities and safeguarding public funds. This is essential to ensuring that revenues from foreign direct investments are properly accounted for and channeled into development priorities. The government's New Economy agenda relies on effective internal auditing to promote good governance and accountability. By addressing these challenges, Ghana can maximize the benefits of its BRICS membership and promote sustainable economic growth.
Geopolitical concerns have also been raised, with some questioning whether Ghana's attempt to join BRICS will affect its relations with traditional partner countries that have ideological differences with BRICS member countries. However, Ghanaian authorities argue that the decision to join BRICS affirms the country's policy of non-alignment, which has allowed it to navigate complex international relationships in the past. This non-aligned approach has enabled Ghana to secure support from various countries, including the United States and the Soviet Union, for key development projects.
In conclusion, Ghana's bid to join BRICS presents both opportunities and challenges. While membership could provide new economic and diplomatic partnerships, concerns over corruption and public finance irregularities need to be addressed. By tackling these challenges and promoting good governance, Ghana can maximize the benefits of its BRICS membership and promote sustainable economic growth. The government must prioritize effective internal auditing, corruption prevention, and public finance management to ensure that Ghana's BRICS membership yields tangible benefits for its citizens.
Key points
- Corruption and public finance irregularities pose significant threats to Ghana's benefits from BRICS membership.
- Effective internal auditing and stronger internal controls are crucial to preventing financial irregularities and safeguarding public funds.
- Ghana's non-aligned foreign policy approach aims to maintain good relations with various countries, including traditional partners and BRICS member countries.
