A man reviews data on steel tariffs and industry protection measures in South Africa.
Ghana and South Korea gained independence around the same time, yet their economic paths diverged sharply—South Korea now enjoys incomes nearly nine times higher, even though it was initially the poorer country. While Seoul prioritized education, family planning, and manufacturing to fuel its rise, Accra—rich in gold but constrained by rapid population growth—lagged behind. However, Ghana’s rapid urbanization, falling fertility rates, and ambitious digital transformation are setting the stage for a potential demographic dividend by 2033. From biometric IDs and digital addresses to AI research hubs and mobile banking, Ghana is building the infrastructure to formalize its economy and boost growth. With smart policies and governance, the country could finally narrow its long-standing development gap, mirroring South Korea’s growth catalyst.
Daily Maverick