GIPC Launches Bold Plan to Uncover Local Investment Gems Across Ghana’s 261 Districts
In a move that could redefine Ghana’s local economies and spark district-level development, the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has launched the Investment Opportunities Mapping Project (IOMP) a national initiative to identify and promote viable business and investment prospects across all 261 districts.
The project, launched on the theme “Unlocking Regional Investment Potential in Ghana for Economic Growth and Prosperity”, is aimed at making investment more inclusive by bringing growth directly to the doorstep of ordinary Ghanaians, from Axim to Zebilla.
The IOMP is expected to serve as a game-changer for traders, artisans, agro-processors, youth groups, and local investors who often struggle to access capital or attract serious investors due to the lack of district-specific data. Once fully rolled out, the project will deliver a comprehensive national investment database and a dedicated online platform that allows both local and international investors to easily find and track real-time opportunities in specific areas.
Shifting Focus to Local Development
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah, who launched the initiative, described the IOMP as “a new era of inclusive investment,” one that ensures every Ghanaian, regardless of where they live, can benefit from Ghana’s investment drive. “This is a shift from Accra-centred development to grassroots-led transformation,” he stressed.
Mr Debrah called on all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to “take ownership of the economic transformation of their communities,” adding that President Mahama is fully behind the programme.
A Call for Local Capital and Ownership
GIPC CEO Simon Madjie said the initiative is not only about attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), but also encouraging local direct investment (LDI). “Too many Ghanaians with capital are investing outside the country. This project will give them clear, credible reasons to invest at home,” he said.
He revealed that the IOMP was partly born out of complaints from embassies and business delegations, who say Ghana lacks a centralised, accessible system for tracking credible investment projects.
Among the planned strategic clusters to be profiled are the Volta Economic Corridor, the Kumasi Machinery & Technology Park, and the Akosombo–Juapong Garments & Textiles Cluster.
Regional Ministers Rally Behind the Plan
James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister and Dean of Regional Ministers, noted that the IOMP aligns with broader national development goals like the 24-Hour Economy Initiative, and will help elevate regional economies. “We’re mobilising district teams and local groups to be ready. Our region will not be left behind,” he stated.
What It Means for the Ordinary Ghanaian
For everyday citizens, this could mean more jobs in agribusiness, more factories and SMEs in small towns, and more district revenue to improve schools, roads, and clinics. Local authorities and chiefs will also be trained on how to make their districts investment-ready and investor-friendly.
With regional roadshows and community-level consultations set to begin soon, the GIPC is urging the public, especially youth and local entrepreneurs, to stay engaged.
As Ghana looks inward to fuel growth from within, the IOMP could be the bridge between untapped district potential and the capital needed to unlock it. For once, the goldmine may be right at home—mapped, profiled, and ready to grow.
