Mahama eyes Russian investment in Ghana’s energy sector ahead of meeting with Putin 

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed Ghana’s interest in securing Russian investment and technical support to expand its energy sector, including exploring nuclear power and solar energy.

He made the remarks during a discussion panel as part of his ongoing visit to Moscow for the 3rd Russia-Africa Forum, where he is expected to hold bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Mahama said the meeting would provide an opportunity for both countries to explore new areas of cooperation and strengthen their economic relations, citing Russia’s advanced technology in the energy sector.

“We're looking at alternative energy sources like solar. You know, we're even looking at nuclear, adding nuclear to our energy mix, and I know that Russia has advanced technology in some of these things, and so we're looking forward to that meeting,” he said.

The President also highlighted Ghana’s position as a leading power producer in the sub-region, noting that the country exports electricity to Togo, Burkina Faso and Benin, while exchanging power with Côte d’Ivoire.

Beyond energy cooperation, Mahama called for stronger partnerships with Russia to address infrastructure challenges hindering trade among African countries under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He argued that inadequate road and railway connections between neighbouring countries, partly rooted in their different colonial histories, continue to limit the continent’s ability to fully exploit the benefits of a single African market.

According to him, the absence of efficient transport networks and adequate port infrastructure has made the movement of goods across African borders difficult, despite efforts to promote regional economic integration.

Mahama further described Russia as a longstanding friend of Africa, citing its historical support for the continent’s struggles against colonialism and apartheid.

“Partners like Russia, that has over the years had a solid commitment to Africa with no strings attached, from the time of independence, Russia has been a friend and has expressed solidarity with Africa on very key issues,” he said.