Switzerland through its State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has announced a $77 million grant as part of a four-year cooperation programme for future oriented growth of the economy.
The program aims to enhance economic growth, create jobs, and foster inclusive development.
The implementation of the program by Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) is as part of comprehensive cooperation program focusing on promoting sustainable economic development in partner countries.
The initiative brings together government agencies, civil society actors, and local stakeholders under the theme: “Creating a More Resilient and Forward-Looking Ghanaian Economy.”
This marks Switzerland`s commitment to supporting Ghana’s path towards a more resilient, inclusive and forward-looking economy.
Building on over two decades of partnership, the new four -year program focuses on three strategic pillars including improve local governance and decentralization, support the private sector to provide jobs and increase income opportunities and enhance environmental integrity.
The programme aligns with Ghana’s development priorities as identified in collaboration with Ministry of Finance and key sector ministries.
It also puts strong emphasis on gender equality, climate action and good economic governance.
Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Simone Giger, Switzerland’s Ambassador to Ghana, reaffirmed her country’s long-standing commitment to Ghana’s development and highlighted the importance of economic diversification.
“I feel that Ghana’s economy and trade should be more diversified,” she said. “I would be super happy if one day I could go to a Swiss market and buy clothes made in Ghana, handcrafts made in Ghana, or even chocolate made in Ghana.”
Ambassador Giger emphasized the need to move beyond traditional exports and encouraged investment in new, globally competitive sectors.
The Project Manager of the “Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work” initiative at the International Labour Organization (ILO), Mr. David Marcos stressed the programme’s focus on improving productivity and working conditions in factories.
“Our aim is to enhance economic cooperation by promoting efficiency and decent work environments, especially in Agro-processing industries that can create jobs and build value chains within Ghana,” he said.
Mr. Marcos also emphasized SECO’s unique access to global economic institutions, which enhances its ability to deliver high-impact programmes aligned with both national and international development goals.
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, acknowledged the strategic alignment between the SECO cooperation programme and the Ministry’s objectives.
He said the programme is supporting Ghana’s decentralization agenda.
Ghana and Switzerland have enjoyed decades of bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, cocoa partnerships, and environmental collaboration.
This new phase of partnership is expected to deepen those ties while unlocking new avenues for inclusive and sustainable growth.
