The Executive Chairman of JL Properties Limited, Dr. James Ato Condua Orleans-Lindsay, has called on Dutch investors to explore the wealth of investment opportunities available in Ghana.

Speaking at the Netherlands-Ghana Business and Tourism Expo in The Hague, Netherlands, Dr. Orleans-Lindsay highlighted Ghana’s vast potential, citing its abundant natural resources, including land, minerals, and a skilled workforce, as key advantages.

As the Guest Speaker at the event, themed ‘Investment Opportunities Between Ghana and The Netherlands’, Dr. Orleans-Lindsay emphasised the mutual benefits both nations can achieve through strengthened partnerships.

"I want to encourage Dutch investors to actively explore the investment prospects highlighted today," Dr. Orleans-Lindsay stated. "It is my hope that by the end of this gathering, concrete steps will have been taken toward realising the mutual benefits of this bilateral relationship."

From Aid to Trade: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Touching on the evolving relationship between Ghana and the Netherlands, Dr. Orleans-Lindsay acknowledged the progression from aid-based support to trade partnerships.

He noted that this shift became more prominent when Ghana launched its ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’ initiative, aimed at fostering self-sufficiency through trade and investment.

“Ghana and the Netherlands have a long-standing bilateral relationship marked by high cooperation and economic diplomacy," he said. "This event presents a fresh opportunity to further unlock the potential of our collaboration."

Investment Opportunities Between Ghana and the Netherlands

Dr. Orleans-Lindsay outlined key sectors that offer promising investment prospects for Dutch investors. He highlighted Ghana’s strategic location, good governance, steady economic growth, and favorable investment climate as reasons the country has become an attractive destination for bilateral investment.

In particular, he identified Agriculture and Agribusiness as core areas. "Cassava and maize, for instance, have global market values of USD $179 billion and USD $300 billion, respectively," he stated, adding that other crops like rice, soybeans, groundnuts, cocoa, and yam also present significant opportunities.

Another focus area was Water Management and Flood Control. Dr. Orleans-Lindsay emphasised the Netherlands' global leadership in water management, drawing attention to its expertise in land reclamation and flood control technologies—capabilities that could greatly benefit Ghana in addressing perennial flooding issues and reclaiming wetlands.

Infrastructure and Real Estate Development

Dr. Orleans-Lindsay also discussed opportunities in Housing and Real Estate, pointing to Ghana's housing deficit, currently estimated at 2 million units. “This presents a substantial investment opportunity for Dutch investors," he noted, underscoring the growing demand for affordable housing.

Leveraging Technology

He further advocated for the application of Dutch technology in addressing Ghana’s water management challenges.

“Technology for flood control and water management would be of immense value to Ghana, not only to manage floods but also to reclaim wetlands and safeguard the environment,” he said.

Stable Democracy and Accessible Market

Encouraging investors to consider Ghana, Dr. Orleans-Lindsay cited the country’s stable democracy and adherence to the rule of law. Since 1992, Ghana has enjoyed uninterrupted democratic governance, and it ranks as the second most peaceful country in West Africa according to the Global Peace Index.

He also highlighted Ghana's strategic geographic location as an added advantage. “Ghana is located near the center of the earth, with a world-class airport that connects to Europe and the Americas within an average flying time of 8 hours," he said, adding that the Kotoka International Airport serves between 2 to 5 million passengers annually.

Additionally, Ghana’s role as host of the Secretariat of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) further increases its appeal, connecting investors to the largest trade bloc globally, with access to 55 countries and 1.3 billion people.

Business-Friendly Environment

Dr. Orleans-Lindsay concluded by highlighting Ghana's friendly business environment, noting that the country has simplified its business registration process, making it easier for entrepreneurs and companies to set up operations.

According to the 2022 Deloitte Africa Investment Attractiveness Index, Ghana ranks as the second most attractive investment destination in Africa.

He added that Ghana is currently undergoing major reforms to digitise its economy, a move expected to boost efficiency and productivity, ultimately enhancing its appeal to foreign investors.