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This week's edition of Ghana in Focus takes a critical analytical eye on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) This is centered around two significant recent events: the Pakistan Rice Roadshow in Accra and President Mahama's visit to Japan to court investment in energy, agribusiness, and manufacturing.

The Pakistan Rice Roadshow, facilitated by Ghana's Ministry of Agriculture, ostensibly aimed to foster collaboration in rice production through technology transfer and knowledge sharing around premium rice varieties like basmati.

What's particularly troubling about this partnership is the historical context. Pakistan has a documented history of discrimination against its own African population, the Siddi people, who have resided there for over 600 years yet face severe marginalization. This raises legitimate concerns about whether such a country would genuinely pursue an equitable trading relationship with Ghana or simply view it as a market to exploit.

We state this is a missed opportunity for Ghana to engage with African Americans who possess deep ancestral knowledge of rice cultivation. During the transatlantic slave trade, Africans from regions including present-day Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone were specifically targeted for enslavement due to their expertise in rice cultivation.

African Americans collectively represent an economic powerhouse with a net worth of approximately $3 trillion - equivalent to the fifth richest country globally if they were an independent nation. This economic strength, presents an ideal opportunity for meaningful partnership rather than depending on countries with questionable motivations toward African development.

Similarly, President Mahama's recent visit to Japan to promote his "Big Push" initiative at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) follows the same problematic pattern. Japan, like many Asian and Western nations, views Africa as a "final frontier" for market expansion as their domestic growth slows and population ages. By 2040, half of Japan's population will be over 65, creating urgent pressure to secure external markets and resources.

The fundamental problem with these foreign partnerships is that profits generated in Ghana ultimately flow back to investor countries, enriching their economies rather than building sustainable wealth within Ghana. Instead of courting foreign investors, the Ghanaian government could support local entrepreneurs like Papa Kwesi Nduom, who has built a multi-sector empire including banking, media, real estate, and hospitality. Supporting Ghanaian businesses would create jobs, generate wealth that remains in the country, and provide tax revenue that can be reinvested.

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Financial dynamics in African relationships can either build strong foundations or lead to devastating breakups. This eye-opening discussion was sparked by a viral story of a South African doctor who suffered financial abuse at the hands of her husband, who manipulated her into funding his luxury lifestyle complete with Mercedes Benz vehicles. The doctor's experience reflects a concerning pattern across the continent where relationships are sometimes formed with financial agendas rather than genuine partnership.

Money matters within African marriages often present unique challenges. Some men experience deep insecurity when their wives earn more, leading to manipulation or financial exploitation. Meanwhile, many women across Ghana and the continent pursue relationships with financially well-endowed men, seeing marriage as a safety net rather than a true partnership. These transactional approaches to relationships contradict the fundamental purpose of marriage as a union where "two become one" – a partnership designed to weather life's ups and downs together.

For couples seeking healthy financial relationships, communication is key. We explore practical approaches like establishing both joint accounts (for family expenses like rent, school fees, and utilities) and separate accounts for personal spending. With economic pressures mounting across Africa, particularly in Ghana where cost of living remains high despite recent improvements, financial transparency has become essential for relationship survival.

By aligning on financial values and long-term goals early, couples can avoid exploitation and build partnerships based on mutual support rather than transactional benefit. Remember: true partnership transcends financial status and creates a foundation where both partners can thrive regardless of who earns more

Want guidance on navigating business opportunities in Ghana? Book a consultation with me to learn about essential requirements like the Ghana card, phone contracts, and more. Subscribe to Ghana Africa Focus on YouTube and Spotify to continue exploring crucial topics affecting African relationships and lifestyles.

Source:

Dr Celiwe gets South Africa talking about financial abuse - BBC News

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We examine whether men should foot the bill on a first date. In Ghana, this seemingly simple question reveals deeper cultural expectations and potential relationship dynamics that deserve exploration. The tradition in Ghana has typically leaned heavily toward men paying for everything on the first date—from drinks to dinner to transportation. This expectation stems from cultural norms where men are traditionally seen as providers and breadwinners.

However, as we examine this practice more critically, important questions emerge about what these financial dynamics on a first date might reveal about potential long-term compatibility. When a man from the diaspora dates in Ghana, he's often automatically perceived as wealthy, which can create an expectation that he will cover all expenses. This differs markedly from dating cultures in the UK, Europe, or North America, where women frequently offer to pay for part of the date, reflecting a more egalitarian approach to courtship that aligns with broader societal moves toward gender equality.

This distinction isn't merely about who picks up the bill; it potentially foreshadows how financial responsibilities might be shared in a future relationship. A woman who is willing to contribute financially on a first date may be signaling her approach to partnership—suggesting she views relationships as collaborative ventures where resources are shared. This quality might indicate someone who would make "good wife material" in terms of financial partnership, as she demonstrates from the outset that she doesn't expect the man to shoulder all financial burdens.

The dowry tradition in Ghana further complicates these dynamics. When a man marries a Ghanaian woman, he typically pays a dowry to her family—offering items like cloth, a Bible (for Christian families), rings, or even cattle. This cultural practice reinforces the expectation that men should be financial providers, potentially extending to the expectation that they will pay for everything on dates as well. However, Ghana has changed significantly in recent decades, with many more women entering the workforce and having their own disposable income, which raises questions about whether these traditional expectations still make sense.

The concern that emerges from these dating customs is whether they set up problematic patterns for future relationships. If a woman expects a man to pay for everything on a first date, does this suggest she might expect him to cover all household expenses in marriage—from rent to utilities to children's school fees? In an era where marriage is increasingly viewed as a partnership, these early financial interactions might serve as important indicators of compatibility.

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Ghana in Focus features a controversial topic that many discuss privately but rarely in public forums: addressing whether "size matters" in sexual relationships.

The conversation was sparked by a remarkable story circulating in Ghana about a woman who married a man despite knowing he had a smaller-than-average penis. After marriage, she began complaining about his size, prompting him to seek help from a local herbalist. The herbalist provided an ointment that successfully enlarged the man's penis, but this created a new problem – his wife now complained it was too big and refused intimacy altogether.

This scenario exposes a concerning trend in modern relationships where superficial qualities override more substantial values. listeners are advised to consider what truly matters in a marriage: is it physical compatibility, or qualities like kindness, respect, thoughtfulness, and the capacity to be a good provider and parent? Many enter marriages with unrealistic expectations fuelled by stereotypes and media portrayals, particularly the harmful myth that African men naturally possess extremely large genitalia – a stereotype with troubling historical roots in slavery and the hypersexualization of Black bodies.

Scientific research indicates that the average penis size globally is approximately six inches when erect, regardless of ethnicity. This reality contradicts popular misconceptions and suggests that most men fall within a normal range that is perfectly adequate for sexual satisfaction. We emphasize that sexual compatibility involves much more than physical dimensions – technique, communication, and emotional connection play far more significant roles in sexual satisfaction than size alone.

Age-related changes in sexual function represent another important aspect of relationship dynamics that couples must navigate. For men, decreased virility and potential erectile dysfunction may occur with age, while women often experience changes in sexual desire, particularly after childbirth or during menopause. Understanding these changes allows couples to adjust their expectations and maintain healthy relationships,

The core message is that true commitment requires partners to appreciate each other holistically, recognizing that bodies change, desires fluctuate, and circumstances evolve throughout a lifetime together. The qualities that sustain marriages through these changes include mutual respect, emotional support and genuine care for one another's wellbeing.

Source:
Ghanaian man opens up about how his wife denies him sex due to s

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Step into Cairo, a living museum where ancient wonders seamlessly blend with modern vibrancy. Many have misunderstood Egypt's true place in the world, but this megacity of 20 million stands firmly in Northeast Afrika—NOT the so called Middle East or "Arab world"—and carries the profound legacy of one of humanity's greatest civilizations, that IS the foundation of Western Civilization.

The crown jewel of any Cairo visit must be the Giza Pyramid Complex. These monumental structures WERE NOT built by Europeans or Arabs, but by Afrikan people nearly 3,000 years before Christ. The Great Pyramid of Khufu (called "Cheops" by the Greeks) stood as the world's tallest building until the 1950s, constructed with 2.3 million precisely-cut limestone blocks weighing between 2.5-15 tons each. Alongside stands the iconic Sphinx—known in its original African context as "Er-hem-eket" (meaning "Heru of the horizon")— these monuments weren't simply architectural achievements but represented profound spiritual connections to the cosmos, demonstrating the ancient Egyptians' advanced understanding of mathematics, astronomy, and spirituality.

Beyond these architectural marvels, Cairo offers countless treasures: the Egyptian Museum with over 120,000 artifacts including Tutankhamun's golden mask; stunning mosques showcasing Islamic architectural brilliance; the bustling Khan Al Khalil Market with its maze of spice stores and craftwork; and delicious street food from koshari to shawarma. Take a sunset felucca ride on the Nile—the world's longest river—for breathtaking views of the city skyline.

The evidence for ancient Egypt's Afrikan identity is overwhelming—from temple depictions showing Egyptians with dark reddish-brown skin and African features to the very name "Kemet" meaning "land of the black." When you visit Cairo, you witness firsthand what Africans achieved over seven millennia ago that still stands today as testament to their genius.

The 1974 UNESCO Cairo Symposium, where scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and Theophile Obenga presented linguistic, genetic, and biological evidence, conclusively demonstrated the African origins of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Whether you seek historical wonders, spiritual connections, culinary delights, or cultural immersion, Cairo offers an unparalleled window into Africa's magnificent heritage that will transform how you see the continent and human history itself.

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Journey with us beyond typical tourist destinations as we unveil two magnificent North African cities that deserve prime positions on your travel bucket list.

Algiers and Casablanca stand as testament to Africa's incredible diversity, blending Mediterranean charm, Islamic artistry, European influences, and authentic African heritage into unforgettable urban experiences.

Algiers captivates with its stunning position as possibly the northernmost city on the continent, where the UNESCO-protected Kasbah reveals centuries of history through maze-like alleyways and Ottoman-era architecture. Picture yourself wandering through Haussmann-style boulevards that earned this city its nickname as "African Paris," or gazing out over the Mediterranean from the cliffside Notre Dame d'Afrique basilica.

Art enthusiasts will treasure time spent at the National Museum of Fine Arts, home to one of Africa's largest art collections featuring both European masters and African artists. When night falls, experience everything from rooftop cafés serving mint tea with panoramic views to vibrant lounges where live bands play both Algerian classics and international favorites

Moving westward, Casablanca pulses as Morocco's contemporary heartbeat while honouring its rich cultural tapestry. The breath-taking Hassan II Mosque rises 210 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, welcoming visitors of all faiths to marvel at its extraordinary craftsmanship. Stroll through downtown to discover architectural treasures from the 1930s, then lose yourself in Quartier Habous where traditional artisans craft everything from leather goods to intricate jewelry. For a uniquely enlightening experience, visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism—the only Jewish museum in the Arab world—showcasing the country's multifaceted heritage through synagogue replicas, traditional clothing, and historical artifacts.

What makes these destinations particularly accessible is their world-class infrastructure. Both cities feature modern transportation networks comparable to major European capitals, making exploration convenient and comfortable.

Whether you're sampling couscous and mint tea at local eateries, hunting for handcrafted souvenirs, or simply watching the sunset from a Mediterranean beach, these North African gems offer the perfect blend of familiar comforts and exotic discoveries. Subscribe to our channel for more African travel insights that will transform how you see this remarkable continent.

Sources:

The Africa You Don't See On TV!(Algeria)

Casablanca Morocco: 10 BEST Things To Do In 2024 (Travel Guide)

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Perched at the southernmost tip of the African continent where the Atlantic meets the sky, Cape Town stands as a magnificent testament to Africa's breath-taking diversity and beauty. Far from the limited narratives often portrayed in Western media, this coastal jewel offers experiences that rival—and often surpass—those of the world's most celebrated destinations..

Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Natural Wonders of the World, dominates the city's landscape, offering panoramic vistas that leave visitors speechless. Whether you choose to hike its trails or ascend via rotating cable car, the mountain provides unforgettable perspectives of the city sprawling below.

Beyond this iconic landmark, Cape Town rewards explorers with dramatic coastal drives along Chapman's Peak, encounters with endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach, and the spectacular meeting of two oceans at Cape Point. History and culture run deep through Cape Town's veins. At Robben Island, former political prisoners lead tours of the facility where Nelson Mandela spent much of his 27-year incarceration.

The vibrant, pastel-colored houses of Bo-Kaap tell stories of the Cape Malay community's resilience and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek vineyards produce world-class wines just a short drive from the city center. The culinary landscape blends African, Malay, Dutch, Indian, and French influences, creating one of the continent's most exciting food scenes.

For adventure enthusiasts, Cape Town delivers thrilling experiences from shark cage diving to paragliding. Those seeking relaxation can unwind on the white sands of Camps Bay or enjoy sunset cocktails at rooftop bars with Table Mountain as their backdrop. With its remarkably diverse offerings—natural wonders, profound history, cultural richness, culinary excellence, and adventure opportunities—Cape Town deserves a prominent place on every traveller's bucket list. Join us as we explore why this African gem should be your next destination. Subscribe to Africa in Focus for more insights into the continent's most extraordinary places!

Sources:

This will change your mind about visiting Cape Town in 2023

Cape Town is not what you THINK it is!

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Ghana's currency, the cedi, has undergone a remarkable transformation in 2025, emerging as the world's best-performing currency just two and a half years after being ranked the world's worst in 2022. This extraordinary turnaround has seen the cedi appreciate by nearly 50% against the US dollar since January, strengthening from 15 cedis per dollar to approximately 10.2 cedis today. Such a dramatic shift deserves examination to understand both its causes and potential sustainability.

The foundations of this currency revival can be traced to December's decisive election results, which saw John Mahama and the NDC secure the largest margin of victory in Ghana's recent electoral history. This political shift signalled improved investor confidence, as the new administration quickly implemented substantial economic reforms. These included cutting government expenditure and waste—areas the previous administration had been reluctant to address—and streamlining the budget through measures that proved popular with both voters and the business community, such as eliminating the COVID levy, emissions levy, and e-levy.

Perhaps the most striking economic achievement has been the stabilization of inflation. At the close of 2022, Ghana's inflation rate stood at a staggering 54.8%. While it had declined to around 28% by the last election, it has now fallen to approximately 18.4%, down from 23% in May. This downward trajectory reflects the current government's commitment to fiscal discipline, including restrictions on first-class travel for government officials.

The successful restructuring of $13 billion in Eurobond debt has further eased Ghana's external debt burden. With the cedi's appreciation against the dollar, the government has effectively paid half of its restructured debt to external creditors, creating more fiscal space. This debt restructuring, combined with disciplined spending, is expected to reduce Ghana's debt-to-GDP ratio from 95% in 2022 to approximately 60% by the end of this year.

Agriculture, particularly crops like cocoa and cashew nuts, has experienced strong growth supported by irrigation and mechanization programs. The mining sector, especially lithium (which is crucial for AI and electric vehicles), is expanding rapidly, alongside manufacturing and construction. These factors have led to credit rating upgrades, with Fitch recently improving Ghana's rating from default to B- with a stable outlook.

Outlook ==== The World Bank and IMF both acknowledge Ghana's progress but stress the importance of:

• Continuing fiscal discipline
• Enhancing domestic revenue mobilization
• Implementing structural reforms in energy, agriculture, and finance

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We provide valuable information that can assist you in your relocation like the Ghana card how/where to register your business.

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We charge a rate of US$30 for an hour's consultation or US$20 for a 30 minute consultation briefing.

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