The Australian High Commissioner to Ghana, Berenice Owen-Jones has reaffirmed the commitment of her country to the development of communities in the country.

She stated that Australia, through the Direct Aid Program (DAP) will create socio-economic opportunities for Ghanaians, particularly women, children and marginalized groups to ensure their growth.

Speaking during a courtesy call on the Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Berenice Owen-Jones stated the women empowerment will be the heart of Australia’s ramped-up aid activities in the country.

The Vice President lauded the program's impact, particularly its role in uplifting vulnerable populations. She called for increased grants and support to enhance local community resilience.

Professor Opoku-Agyemang stated empowering women is a huge step in empowering communities, urging that the initiatives aligned with Ghana's development priorities.

ACIAR Expands to Ghana Agricultural research and climate change resilience took centre stage as the Australian High Commissioner highlighted the expansion of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) to Ghana.

The initiative will foster collaborative research and innovation in agriculture, supporting the government's mechanized farming agenda and efforts toward food self-sufficiency.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang welcomed this development, expressing interest in integrating ACIAR's expertise with Ghana's 13 agricultural research institutes.

During the meeting, High Commissioner Berenice Owen-Jones highlighted Australia's significant mining investments in West Africa, valued at $30 billion, with Ghana hosting a substantial share.

She expressed enthusiasm about Atlantic Lithium's upcoming project in Ghana, pending parliamentary ratification of its mining license. The project promises to generate over 900 direct jobs for Ghanaians, boosting local economies.

Vice President Opoku-Agyemang commended Australia's mining expertise and called for sustainable practices that align with Ghana's developmental goals.