Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced on October 6, 2026, that Ghana will formally apply for membership of BRICS, a bloc of major emerging economies. The decision, approved by Cabinet, aims to diversify Ghana's international partnerships and expand opportunities for economic development. This move aligns with the Mahama administration's vision of transforming Ghana's economy through diversified international cooperation and industrialization.
The proposed membership is part of Ghana's "new economy" agenda, anchored on seven pillars, which seeks to create jobs, attract investment, and enable Ghana to derive greater value from its natural resources. BRICS membership is expected to provide additional development opportunities, complementing Ghana's existing relationships with traditional development partners. The Minister emphasized that Ghana will maintain its existing partnerships while strengthening relations with other countries.
Ghana has identified India, Brazil, and China as important economic partners, with trade between Ghana and India more than doubling from $3 billion in 2024 to approximately $7 billion. China remains a major economic player in Ghana. The Minister noted that Ghana's diplomatic missions and longstanding bilateral relations with BRICS members will support its engagement with the grouping.
The Minister cited historical ties between Ghana and India, recalling the relationship between Ghana's first President, Kwame Nkrumah, and India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Both leaders played important roles in the development of the Non-Aligned Movement. Ghana has formally sought India's assistance in its bid to join BRICS and received a positive response from India's Minister of External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
Dr. Jaishankar stated that India understands Ghana's interest in joining BRICS and supports the country's aspirations and development goals. He noted that BRICS brings together countries from diverse geographical regions that value independent thinking and freedom of choice. The bloc's message and appeal can resonate with countries across different regions.
BRICS originated as BRIC, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and was formalized in 2006. The bloc has since expanded to include 11 full members and 10 partner countries. BRICS serves as a platform for consultation and cooperation on global and regional political and economic issues, including reforms to international governance institutions.
The proposed membership is expected to deepen Ghana's cooperation with countries of the Global South and support the Government's economic transformation agenda. The Government seeks sustainable economic growth, job creation, industrialization, and greater control over the exploitation and use of Ghana's natural resources. The Minister emphasized that Ghana wants resource sovereignty, treating Ghana as an equal partner.
Key points
- Ghana to formally apply for BRICS membership following Cabinet approval
- The proposed membership aims to diversify Ghana's international partnerships and expand opportunities for economic development
- Ghana has identified India, Brazil, and China as important economic partners
