The Ghana–Yorkshire Trade & Investment Summit took place on September 11 and 12, 2026, at the University of Bradford. The event was convened by Nana A. O. Hagan, Founder and CEO of SHOFT CIC. The summit aimed to strengthen trade and investment between Ghana and Yorkshire, driven by innovation and sustainable growth. It brought together business, academia, government, traditional leadership, entrepreneurship, culture, and creativity. The partnership between the University of Bradford's School of Management and the Ghana Scholarly Society was central to the summit's success.
The summit featured several high-profile guests, including the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Chris Herd, and former Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung. Bradford Council Leader, Cllr Stephen Anthony Place, and Dr Manoj Joshi MBE, DL, representing the Lord Lieutenant, Professor Adeeba Malik CBE, were also in attendance. Ghana's Deputy High Commissioner, Hon. Aquinas Quansah, and Nana Afua Apiatewa III, Nguabasin Atta Kuma Atta Henmaa of the Gomoa Assin Traditional Council, Ghana, were among the dignitaries present.
The keynote speakers at the summit included Hon. Dr Stephen Amoah, Member of Parliament in Ghana, and Hon. Isaac Adongo, Member of Parliament and Chairperson of Parliament's Finance Committee. Hon. Daniel Nana Addo Kenneth, Member of Parliament, and Mr Emmanuel Mensah Thompson Esq., Deputy Director-General of Ghana's Securities and Exchange Commission, also delivered presentations. The University of Bradford's School of Management contributed to the gathering through its academic expertise.
The summit's focus was not only on economics but also on relationships and creating connections between people. The event provided a platform for conversations about building partnerships between Ghana and Yorkshire that could create lasting economic and social value. The gathering of political, civic, diplomatic, financial, and academic expertise provided a strong foundation for these discussions.
Behind the scenes, a team of volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the summit. Their exceptional contribution was evident in the efficient and quiet manner in which they worked. The volunteers welcomed guests, directed people, and dealt with practicalities, allowing the programme to flow seamlessly.
The summit also celebrated Ghanaian tradition and culture, with Nana Afua Apiatewa III, Nguabasin Atta Kuma Atta Henmaa of the Gomoa Assin Traditional Council, Ghana, gracing the event with her royal presence. Her attendance was accompanied by a linguist, royal umbrella bearer, and an Adowa dancer, adding colour and ceremony to the proceedings.
The event showcased the diversity of Ghanaian culture and enterprise, with makers and creative entrepreneurs in attendance. Mrs Alice BazaaNaa, a weaver from Wa in Ghana, brought her skills and knowledge to the summit, demonstrating the connection between culture and business. The presence of 10-year-old Verity Ofori-Kuragu, an author and young entrepreneur, highlighted the importance of investing in people, ideas, and potential.
Key points
- The summit aimed to strengthen trade and investment between Ghana and Yorkshire, driven by innovation and sustainable growth.
- The event brought together business, academia, government, traditional leadership, entrepreneurship, culture, and creativity.
- The summit provided a platform for conversations about building partnerships between Ghana and Yorkshire that could create lasting economic and social value.
