President John Dramani Mahama has called for increased investment from South Korea in Africa’s key sectors, highlighting the continent’s growing economic potential and youthful population.
Speaking at Yonsei University in Seoul on Friday March 13, 2026, President Mahama said Africa stands at the threshold of unprecedented transformation and presents significant opportunities for global partners.
According to the President, by 2050 nearly a quarter of the world’s population will be African, while one-third of the global youth population between the ages of 15 and 24 will come from the continent.
“While much of the developed world faces ageing populations and shrinking workforces, Africa’s young population represents immense energy, creativity and innovation,” he noted.
“These are entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, engineers and leaders ready to seize opportunities,” President Mahama added.
He emphasized that the continent offers substantial economic prospects for Korea and other international investors seeking long-term partnerships.
“For Korea, Africa offers substantial economic prospects,” he stated.
President Mahama cited the involvement of Yonsei University in upgrading Bonso Agri College into a campus of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development as a strong example of growing academic and development cooperation between Ghana and Korea.
“A notable example is Yonsei University’s involvement in upgrading the Bonso Agri College into a campus of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development in Ghana,” he said.
He therefore encouraged more Korean investment in strategic sectors that can accelerate Africa’s development.
“We encourage more investment in education, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, technology, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing,” President Mahama added.
Mr. Mahama also used the occasion to outline his vision for Ghana’s future, emphasizing the need for a prosperous and self-reliant nation where democracy delivers tangible benefits for citizens.
“My vision for Ghana is clear: to prove that democracy works and to build a prosperous and self-reliant nation where every citizen can realize their full potential,” he said.
According to President Mahama, innovation must play a central role in Ghana’s economic transformation, with young people empowered to drive entrepreneurship and job creation.
“A country where innovation fuels economic growth and where our young people are not merely job seekers but job creators,” he stated.
The President expressed optimism about Ghana’s future, noting that the determination he sees among young people continues to inspire confidence in the country’s development prospects.
“I am optimistic about our collective future because I see in the eyes of young people here at Yonsei what I see in the eyes of young people back home in Ghana, purpose, pride and determination to build a future of shared prosperity and peace,” he added.
