Ghana suspends diplomatic relations with Polisario Front

Ghana has made the decision to suspend their diplomatic relations with the Polisario Front.

According to NorthAfricaPost and Atalayar on January 7 Ghana also expressed their support for Morocco’s “good faith efforts” in pursuing a diplomatic solution to the Sahara issue.

This decision comes alongside the inauguration of Ghana`s new president, John Dramani Mahama, showcasing the new leaders commitment to strengthening Ghana’s relations with Morocco.

The Polisario was initially recognised by Ghana in 1979.

Despite this, 46 countries have severed or suspended their ties with the Polisario Front. Much of this has occurred due to Morocco’s diplomatic initiatives under King Mohammed VI.

This shift comes alongside the strengthening of relations between Morocco and Ghana, particularly in investment and trade.

In recent decades, both Ghana and Morocco have significantly increased their economic ties. In January 2023, they each signed a double taxation agreement to avoid tax duplication and combat tax evasion.

Ghana is now one of Morocco’s main trading partners within ECOWAS. Moroccan exports to Ghana have increased on average annually by 14% over the past 20 years.

Exports to Ghana from Morocco were approximately $5 million in 1995, but this figure now comes to roughly $133 million in 2021.

For the most part, Moroccan exports to Ghana include raw sugar and fish while Ghana typically exports tropical fruit, bran, and cocoa power to Morocco.

In addition to this strengthened trade relationship, strong investment ties have also been established. Moroccan companies have set up in Ghana.

This includes companies such as, BMCE Bank, CIMAF (cement manufacturer), Addoha (real estate group), and OCP (fertilizer giant)

NorthAfricaPost, Atalayar