Ghana Applies to Join BRICS to Diversify Economic Partnerships

The Government of Ghana has approved a formal application to join BRICS, the intergovernmental organization of emerging economies. Minister of Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced the Cabinet's decision on October 6, 2026, during a joint press briefing with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Accra.

Ablakwa stated that the bid aligns with President John Dramani Mahama's "New Economy" vision, which focuses on transformative economic growth and resource sovereignty. He explained that joining the bloc would allow Ghana to diversify its international cooperation and increase partnerships within the global south framework to avoid reliance on a small number of international institutions. He clarified that the move is not a departure from traditional partners but a means to provide more options for the national development agenda.

Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed India's support for Ghana's aspirations and goals. However, he noted that the application is a matter of "collective consideration," as final membership requires the approval of the broader BRICS grouping.