Ghana is exploring cooperation with Germany in railway infrastructure and engineering as part of efforts to modernise and expand its rail network, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said.
The discussions took place between Ghanaian Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
According to Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, the two ministers discussed strengthening economic ties and attracting German investment, with railway infrastructure and engineering emerging as a key area for potential cooperation.
The ministry said Ghana is seeking practical partnerships that could support the development of its railway system, while German companies could explore opportunities to expand their operations in the West African country.
The talks also covered migration and labour mobility, including the possibility of structured labour-exchange programmes that would create legal pathways for skilled Ghanaian workers to take up opportunities in Germany.
Ablakwa noted that the two sides also exchanged views on irregular migration and the need to address some of its underlying drivers through skills development, education and employment opportunities.
On regional security, the ministry added that the discussions included the deteriorating situation in the Sahel, the threat posed by violent extremism and the recruitment and trafficking of African youth into the Russia-Ukraine war.
The two sides agreed, according to the ministry, to maintain close consultations, identify practical areas for cooperation and work toward an implementation strategy covering the issues discussed.
The talks come as Ghana seeks international partners and financing to strengthen its railway infrastructure and improve transport links supporting trade and industrial development. Ghana has also been engaging other countries, including Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, over potential strategic partnerships for railway development.
Germany already has a long-standing development and economic relationship with Ghana, including cooperation in infrastructure and other sectors. The German Foreign Office describes Ghana as an important partner in West Africa, with bilateral ties covering trade, development cooperation, education and training.
Ghana’s transport authorities have also stressed the importance of integrating railways with roads, ports and inland waterways to improve the movement of goods and connect production centres with domestic and regional markets.
