The President of the Ghana Real Estate Developers Association (GREDA), Mr Patrick Ebo Bonful, has highlighted significant transformations in Ghana's real estate sector in recent years.

Speaking at the official launch of Diaspora Property Expo (DPE 2025) at the Accra Marriott Hotel in Airport City, he acknowledged the pivotal role of technology in increasing access to potential customers and expediting transactions.

Mr Bonful noted that buyers and investors from the diaspora, particularly younger individuals, often favour the convenience offered by technology. He assured attendees that the organisers of DPE 2025 would leverage these technological advancements to ensure an effective and impactful expo.

DPE 2025 Overview

DPE 2025 is a collaborative initiative involving Diaspora Property Investment Ltd, Made in Ghana Consulting Ltd, GREDA, the Ministry of Works and Housing, Nkunim Diaspora City of Mankessim, Global Handlings Shipping Limited (GHSL), and other partners.

The two-part expo is designed to create investment opportunities in Ghana’s real estate sector for Ghanaians in North America. The Canadian leg is scheduled for the Marriott Centre Hotel in Ontario from 21st to 23rd March 2025, while the United States leg will take place at the World Trade Centre of Greater Philadelphia from 28th to 30th March 2025.

Assurances from Organisers and Officials

The Country Director of Diaspora Property Expo LLC, Mr Sidney Justin Tehoda, assured exhibitors that their participation in DPE 2025 would connect them with a targeted audience genuinely interested in real estate opportunities in Ghana.

Representing the Minister of Works and Housing, the Ministry’s Chief Director, Rev Stephen Yaw Osei, praised the initiative. He emphasised that events like DPE 2025 serve as a platform to showcase achievements, foster collaboration, and advance housing sector development.

More than 57 Ghanaian property developers, real estate agencies, financial service providers, and design firms have expressed interest in participating in DPE 2025. However, Mr Roland Thomas, CEO of GHSL and a member of the Local Planning Board, revealed that only 20 reputable companies would qualify to participate in each expo. The programme will feature a conference, exhibition, panel discussions, and an investment clinic.

Insights from Industry Leaders

Renowned Ghanaian lawyer, Mr Tsatsu Tsikata, delivered a speech on the theme: “Harnessing the Full Potential of the Real Estate Industry in Ghana: An All-Hands-On-Deck Approach.” He urged stakeholders to ensure that Ghana’s peaceful and democratic image is upheld, particularly during the upcoming December elections, as it will significantly influence the success of DPE 2025 in the US and Canada.

Mr Kofi Nartey, CEO of the US-based Globl RED LLC and DPE 2025’s US partner, described the project as a powerful platform for building impactful connections, creating opportunities, and bridging the gap between the diaspora and Ghana’s property market. He expressed confidence in the success of the expo.

Similarly, Mr Julius Ossom, President of Aim 2 Impact and DPE 2025’s Canadian partner, highlighted the large Ghanaian and diaspora population in Canada eager to explore real estate opportunities in Ghana. “We aim to bring together the right investors, developers, and stakeholders committed to Ghana’s future in real estate,” he said.

Government Support and Future Plans

Madam Ayishatu Abdallah, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, commended the organisers for their forward-thinking initiative. She pledged the Ministry’s support for a successful DPE 2025, describing the event as a vital bridge connecting expertise, resources, and opportunities across borders.

DPE 2025 will be re-launched at the Ghana Embassy in Washington, DC, on 22nd January 2025. This will be followed by roadshows across more than 25 states and cities in the US and Canada, culminating in the main events in March.

The organisers expressed optimism that DPE 2025 would be a game-changing initiative for Ghana’s real estate sector, creating long-term opportunities and strengthening ties with the diaspora.