Ghana is set to file a formal application for BRICS membership after its Cabinet gave the green light. Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa made the announcement in Accra on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at a joint press briefing with his Indian counterpart, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The timing was no accident. By unveiling the decision during an official visit from a founding member of the group, President John Dramani Mahama’s government secured a heavyweight first sponsor for its bid.
Why now? Ghanaian officials point to diversifying the country’s international partnerships, opening new economic outlets and drawing closer to the Global South. Behind those phrases lies a simple ambition: to have several levers for financing development instead of relying on a single circle of lenders. China, which the minister describes as a major economic partner, is central to that reasoning, with BRICS expected to serve as an additional platform for trade, investment and industrialisation.
Accra is careful not to ruffle any feathers. According to Mr Ablakwa, membership would complement relations with traditional partners, not replace them. This balancing act answers the concerns of those who fear such a move could complicate the country’s access to Western markets and financing.
The members still have to be won over. Ghana has formally asked New Delhi for its backing, and India has been sympathetic while pointing out that the decision rests with the group as a whole. The Ghanaian minister is nonetheless confident, citing good relations with founding and newer members alike, all of which have diplomatic missions in Accra.
Should the bid succeed, Ghana would become the fourth African country in the group. South Africa has been a member since 2010, Egypt and Ethiopia since 2024. No timetable has been announced, however, either for submitting the application or for its review.
The announcement also comes as bilateral ties tighten. India wants to expand cooperation with Ghana in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, mining, defence, railways and digital technology. For Accra, the road to BRICS starts in New Delhi, but it will need the agreement of everyone else.