The University of Bradford recently hosted the Ghana–Yorkshire Trade & Investment Summit on September 11 and 12, 2026. The event was organized by Nana A. O. Hagan, Founder and CEO of SHOFT CIC, and partnered with the University of Bradford's School of Management and the Ghana Scholarly Society. The summit aimed to promote trade and investment between Ghana and Yorkshire, driven by innovation and sustainable growth. It brought together a diverse group of attendees, including business leaders, academics, government officials, and traditional leaders.
The summit featured a range of high-profile guests, including the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Chris Herd, and Ghana's Deputy High Commissioner, Hon. Aquinas Quansah. Other notable attendees included Professor Uduak Archibong MBE, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Bradford, and Nana Afua Apiatewa III, Nguabasin Atta Kuma Atta Henmaa of the Gomoa Assin Traditional Council, Ghana. The event also featured keynote speakers, including Hon. Dr Stephen Amoah, Member of Parliament in Ghana, and Hon. Isaac Adongo, Member of Parliament and Chairperson of Parliament's Finance Committee.
The summit's program included presentations, exhibitions, and conversations on finance, investment, international relations, and economic development. The University of Bradford's School of Management contributed to the event through its academic expertise, with speakers including Dr. Kweku Adams, Associate Professor in International Business and Management, and Professor Richard Nyuur, Head of International Business, Marketing and Strategy. The event provided a platform for discussions on building partnerships between Ghana and Yorkshire that could create lasting economic and social value.
The summit also highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and traditional identity. Nana Afua Apiatewa III brought a touch of Ghanaian tradition to the event, accompanied by her linguist, royal umbrella bearer, and an Adowa dancer. The presence of makers and creative entrepreneurs, such as Mrs. Alice BazaaNaa, a weaver from Wa, Ghana, added to the event's cultural richness. Her weaving skills were a testament to the value of traditional knowledge and craftsmanship.
One of the summit's most inspiring moments came from 10-year-old Verity Ofori-Kuragu, an author and young entrepreneur who showcased her work. Her presence served as a reminder that enterprise has no minimum age and that investing in people, ideas, and potential can produce long-term returns. The event demonstrated that investment is not just about capital and commerce but also about nurturing talent and creativity.
The summit's success was also due to the exceptional contribution of its volunteers, who worked behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Their efforts were crucial in creating a seamless experience for attendees, allowing the event's focus to remain on meaningful discussions and connections. The volunteers' dedication was a testament to the power of teamwork and collaboration.
The Ghana–Yorkshire Trade & Investment Summit demonstrated the potential for collaboration and cultural exchange between Ghana and Yorkshire. The event's focus on innovation, sustainable growth, and cultural identity provided a unique platform for building relationships and exploring new opportunities. As a result, the summit has laid the groundwork for future partnerships and initiatives that can drive economic and social progress.
Key points
- The summit brought together business, academia, government, and traditional leadership to strengthen trade and investment between Ghana and Yorkshire.
- The event featured a range of high-profile guests, including parliamentarians, diplomats, and academics.
- The summit highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and traditional identity in building partnerships between Ghana and Yorkshire.
