The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has once again placed Ghana at the forefront of global investment excellence after securing two prestigious recognitions at the 29th World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) World Investment Conference held in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.

In a remarkable demonstration of leadership and innovation, the Centre emerged as a dual winner — with its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Simon Madjie, elected as WAIPA Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa for the 2025–2027 term, and the GIPC itself receiving the 2025 Excellence in Aftercare Award. These recognitions not only underscore Ghana’s rising global investment profile but also reinforce GIPC’s reputation as a world-class institution committed to creating a thriving investment climate.

The GIPC’s twin achievements mark a major milestone for Ghana’s investment ecosystem. Competing against Zimbabwe’s Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) for the WAIPA leadership position, Mr. Madjie’s election signals confidence in Ghana’s strategic approach to investment promotion.

As the Regional Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr. Madjie will spearhead collaborative initiatives to strengthen investment promotion agencies (IPAs) across the region. His mandate includes coordinating regional Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) efforts, promoting sustainable and inclusive investment models, and facilitating knowledge-sharing and capacity-building programmes that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking after his election, Mr. Madjie expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in Ghana, describing the recognition as a reflection of the country’s dedication to investor care and development.

Recognising World-Class Aftercare and Investor Support

The Excellence in Aftercare Award celebrates GIPC’s exceptional post-investment services designed to retain, expand, and support investors after their initial entry into Ghana. The award acknowledges the Centre’s innovative aftercare programmes that focus on building strong investor relationships, facilitating business growth, and resolving post-establishment challenges.

This recognition from WAIPA, a global body representing more than 170 investment promotion agencies across over 130 countries — positions GIPC among the world’s best in investor servicing. According to WAIPA’s Executive Director, Mr. Ismail Ersahin, GIPC’s aftercare strategy has become a benchmark for excellence in emerging markets.

“GIPC’s aftercare model sets a new benchmark for investor confidence and demonstrates how strategic engagement with investors can drive sustainable growth,” Mr. Ersahin said.

The GIPC’s success is not occurring in isolation. It is a direct reflection of Ghana’s broader national agenda to transform the economy through industrialisation, job creation, and inclusive growth. Under its current leadership, GIPC has launched the Investment Opportunity Mapping Project (IOMP) — a groundbreaking initiative profiling investment-ready opportunities across all 261 districts in Ghana.

The IOMP aligns with major government policy frameworks such as President Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy, the Export Development Programme, and the Big Push Agenda, all of which seek to position Ghana as a competitive hub for trade, manufacturing, and technology-led growth.

By identifying and showcasing potential investment hotspots nationwide, the GIPC aims to decentralise investment attraction, empowering local economies and ensuring that every region contributes meaningfully to national development.

Driving Sustainable Investment Across Sub-Saharan Africa

In his new WAIPA role, Mr. Madjie’s leadership will be instrumental in redefining Sub-Saharan Africa’s approach to investment promotion. His strategic plan focuses on sustainable investment models that prioritise green growth, digital innovation, and regional integration.

He has pledged to foster partnerships that will unlock the continent’s economic potential through a unified regional investment agenda. He established that the goal is to build a strong, collaborative front across Sub-Saharan Africa — one that promotes investments that are not only profitable but also sustainable. Together, we can shape a new narrative of shared prosperity.

As part of his vision, the GIPC has extended an open invitation to WAIPA members to participate in the inaugural Ghana International Investment Summit (GIIS) scheduled for August 2026. The summit will focus on high-impact sectors including agribusiness, renewable energy, manufacturing, and digital transformation — areas that align with Ghana’s sustainable development goals.

Global Recognition Boosts Investor Confidence

The dual recognition at WAIPA 2025 sends a strong signal to global investors that Ghana is not only open for business but also committed to providing unparalleled support and stability. The accolades reaffirm the GIPC’s pivotal role in attracting and retaining investment, while positioning Ghana as a credible and trusted gateway to Sub-Saharan Africa.

The success also highlights the Centre’s strong institutional capacity, professionalism, and ability to implement effective aftercare mechanisms that enhance investor satisfaction and retention — all critical components in boosting FDI inflows.

With GIPC’s growing international reputation and Mr. Madjie’s elevation to a regional leadership role, Ghana is poised to consolidate its standing as West Africa’s investment powerhouse. These achievements not only celebrate past successes but also chart a bold new path for the future — one where Ghana continues to attract quality investments, foster innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth.