Ghana and the Republic of Korea have reached a landmark agreement to establish a Hyundai automotive manufacturing plant and a new university in Ghana, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties and advancing the country’s industrialisation agenda.
The announcement was made by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, following his co-chairing of the 2026 Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Korea alongside his Korean counterpart, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun.
According to Mr. Ablakwa, the partnership reflects a shared commitment between both nations to build a mutually beneficial relationship focused on industrial growth, value addition, and job creation, particularly for Ghana’s youthful population.
“This year, our two countries will open a new university in Ghana; establish a West Africa Hyundai Automotive Manufacturing Plant in Ghana and launch new solar irrigation systems,” he stated in a social media post on June 2, 2026.
The proposed Hyundai plant is expected to position Ghana as a key automotive hub in West Africa, boosting local manufacturing capacity, reducing imports, and creating employment opportunities across the value chain.
In addition to the automotive project, the new university is aimed at strengthening Ghana’s higher education sector, with a focus on skills development and innovation to support the country’s long-term economic transformation.
Mr. Ablakwa noted that Ghana and South Korea already enjoy strong cooperation across several sectors, including energy, agriculture, maritime, education, shipbuilding, road infrastructure, and healthcare.
He further revealed that both countries are exploring new areas of collaboration, including artificial intelligence development, energy partnerships, and critical minerals, as part of efforts to deepen economic and technological ties.
“Additionally, we agreed to have collaboration in AI and new partnerships for energy and critical minerals,” he added.
The Foreign Minister also disclosed progress in visa waiver negotiations between the two countries. While diplomatic and service passport holders are already covered, discussions are ongoing to extend the arrangement to all passport categories.
The agreement comes as Ghana and South Korea prepare to mark 50 years of formal diplomatic relations next year, with both countries expressing optimism about expanding cooperation into new strategic sectors.
The latest developments are expected to significantly enhance Ghana’s position as an emerging industrial and technological hub in the region.
