Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) recently hosted its inaugural Investor Aftercare Forum, aiming to strengthen support for existing foreign businesses and foster a more streamlined investment climate.
The forum, held on March 26th at the Labadi Beach Hotel, underscored the importance of aftercare services in attracting and retaining foreign direct investment (FDI). Research shows that a significant portion of FDI comes from reinvestment by existing foreign businesses, highlighting the need to prioritize their needs.
“Aftercare is critical for any nation’s investment promotion efforts,” said GIPC CEO Mr. Yofi Grant. He acknowledged improvements in Ghana’s ease of doing business but stressed the need to further streamline key areas like investor onboarding and post-establishment support.
The forum provided a platform for stakeholders, including government agencies, local authorities, and investors, to share feedback and identify areas for improvement. Investors were encouraged to utilize the Investor Grievance Mechanism, designed to address operational challenges in a timely manner.
GIPC’s Head of Aftercare, Ms. Victoria Cobbah, emphasized the importance of prioritizing aftercare services. She highlighted success stories of the Aftercare unit in assisting investors navigate regulatory hurdles and achieve compliance. The unit aims to minimize operational issues and act as a liaison between investors and the government.
Ms. Cobbah also announced the upcoming launch of an aftercare manual and information pack, designed to provide investors with comprehensive resources.
The GIPC on 26th March 2024, hosted its maiden Investor Aftercare Forum, at the Labadi Beach Hotel.
— Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (@gipcghana) March 27, 2024
The event provided a forum for key stakeholders to discuss strategies aimed at bolstering support for investor growth & streamlining business operations within the country. 1/6 pic.twitter.com/fjOtwnviQb
A representative from the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Victor Kofi Baidoo, presented on the new Exemptions Act 2022 (Act 1083). He clarified that the act serves to standardize and consolidate exemptions previously scattered across different laws, aiming for transparency and consistency, not to disadvantage investors.
The forum concluded with an interactive “Aftercare Clinic” where investors could directly engage with government agencies to address specific concerns.