Cabinet approves Ghana’s bid to join BRICS

Story by: Regina Bless

Ghana’s Cabinet has approved the country’s plan to formally apply for membership of BRICS, a bloc of major emerging economies seeking greater influence in global economic and political affairs.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, announced the decision on October 6, 2026, during a joint press briefing in Accra with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.

According to Mr Ablakwa, the proposed membership forms part of the government’s efforts to diversify Ghana’s international partnerships, attract investment, promote industrialisation and create employment opportunities.

BRICS originally comprised Brazil, Russia, India and China, with South Africa joining later to form the group’s current name. The bloc has since expanded to include other countries, providing a platform for cooperation on trade, investment, development and international governance.

The Foreign Affairs Minister explained that joining BRICS could provide Ghana with additional opportunities to strengthen its economic relationships and reduce its dependence on a limited number of international development partners.

He stressed, however, that the move would not mean Ghana was abandoning its existing relationships with institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

Mr Ablakwa noted that Ghana intended to maintain its traditional partnerships while exploring new opportunities with countries that could support its economic transformation agenda.

He also highlighted the government’s interest in achieving greater control over the country’s natural resources by encouraging local processing and manufacturing rather than relying heavily on the export of raw materials.

The government believes that stronger cooperation with BRICS countries could help Ghana attract investment, expand local industries and generate sustainable economic growth.

Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, expressed understanding and support for Ghana’s aspirations but noted that the application would require collective consideration by existing BRICS members.

Ghana is expected to proceed with the formal application process and seek the support of member countries.

The proposed membership could open additional avenues for trade and investment, although the extent of its benefits will depend on the outcome of the application and the agreements Ghana eventually reaches with its partners.